The world's most photogenic archipelago. Compare flights and resorts across 200+ platforms — the Maldives is more accessible than you think.
The big choice: overwater resort (expensive, all-inclusive, spectacular) vs local island guesthouse (dramatically cheaper, more authentic, some restrictions on alcohol).
Local islands like Maafushi, Thulusdhoo and Guraidhoo have guesthouses from ₹4,000–8,000/night. You still get turquoise water and white sand. A "bikini beach" is typically a short boat ride away.
Our recommendation for first-timers on a budget: 3 nights on a local island, then 2 nights at a mid-range resort for the overwater bungalow experience. Best of both for roughly ₹90,000–1,20,000 total for two.
Snorkelling is free or near-free from most local island beaches. The house reef at Maafushi alone has turtles, rays and reef sharks — no boat trip needed.
Diving: PADI Open Water courses cost approximately USD 400–500 (₹33,000–41,000). Fun dives cost USD 50–80 per dive. The Maldives has some of the best diving in the world.
Whale shark snorkelling (South Ari Atoll) and manta ray dives (Baa Atoll) are seasonal but extraordinary. Best months: December–April for whale sharks, May–November for mantas.
On local islands, cafes serve rice and curry, fresh tuna, and grilled fish for MVR 50–100 (₹270–540) per meal.
Resort dining is expensive: expect USD 40–100 per person per meal without a drinks package. Factor this into your budget before booking — all-inclusive may be better value at resorts.
Budget tip: bring snacks for arrival day. The Male airport area has convenience stores. Local island supermarkets are cheap for basics.
Direct flights operate from Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kochi and Hyderabad to Male (MLE). IndiGo, Air India and Sri Lankan Airlines are the main carriers.
From Male, you reach your island by speedboat (local islands: MVR 100–200 / ₹540–1,080), public ferry (very cheap, very slow), or seaplane (resort islands, beautiful but USD 250–500 / ₹20,000–41,000 per person return).
Check whether your accommodation includes or arranges transfers — resort transfers are often bundled and the seaplane timings are non-negotiable.
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