Maldives Cost: How Much Does a Trip to the Maldives Really Cost?

When people ask if the Maldives, a sovereign island nation in the Indian Ocean known for luxury overwater bungalows and crystal-clear waters is part of India, they’re mixing up geography with affordability. The Maldives is its own country—about 700 kilometers southwest of India’s southern tip. It’s not in India, but many Indian travelers go there because it’s close, easy to reach, and feels like a dream escape. And yes, that dream comes with a price tag.

So how much does a Maldives trip actually cost? For a basic 5-day getaway, you’re looking at $800–$1,500 per person if you skip the luxury resorts. That includes round-trip flights from major Indian cities, a simple guesthouse on a local island, meals, and a few snorkeling trips. But if you’re eyeing those iconic overwater villas? That jumps to $2,000–$5,000 per person, especially in peak season. Food isn’t cheap either—don’t expect to grab a $2 street taco. Even a simple lunch at a resort can run $25–$40. Compare that to India, where you can eat well for under $5 and stay in a clean hotel for $20. The Maldives vs India budget battle isn’t even close—India wins on cost, but the Maldives wins on pure beach magic.

Don’t forget visas. Indian citizens get a free 90-day tourist visa on arrival, which is a big plus. But flights? They’re pricier than you’d think. Direct flights from Delhi or Mumbai to Male start around $300–$500 round-trip if you book early. If you’re planning a honeymoon, most resorts bundle everything—room, meals, transfers, even romantic dinners. An all-inclusive honeymoon package can easily hit $6,000–$10,000 for two. That’s why many couples compare the Maldives to Fiji or even Thailand. Each has different trade-offs: Fiji offers more adventure, Thailand is cheaper, and the Maldives? It’s the most polished, private, and picture-perfect.

Here’s what you’ll find in the posts below: real cost breakdowns for Maldives trips, how it stacks up against India and Fiji, visa tips for Indian travelers, and honest reviews of resorts that won’t drain your savings. No marketing fluff. Just what people actually paid, where they stayed, and what they wish they’d known before booking. Whether you’re saving up for a honeymoon, a solo escape, or just curious if the Maldives is worth the hype—this collection has the unfiltered answers.