Maldives Flights: Best Alternatives and Travel Tips for Indian Travelers

When you search for Maldives flights, direct air routes from India to this tropical island nation known for luxury overwater bungalows and crystal-clear lagoons. Also known as Maldives vacation packages, these flights often come with high prices and long layovers—making many travelers look elsewhere. The truth? You don’t need to fly to the Maldives to get that postcard-perfect beach experience. India itself has over a dozen islands that rival the Maldives in beauty, cost, and ease of access.

Take Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a chain of 572 islands in the Bay of Bengal, home to some of the clearest waters in Asia and coral reefs teeming with marine life. Also known as Indian Maldives, this destination offers direct flights from Kolkata, Chennai, and Delhi, with round-trip fares often under half the cost of Maldives flights. Then there’s Goa, famous for its golden sands, Portuguese heritage, and vibrant beach shacks. While not an island, its coastal stretches like Palolem and Agonda deliver the same relaxed, turquoise-water vibe without the visa hassles or currency exchange. Even Kerala, with its backwaters, quiet beaches, and coconut-lined shores, offers a slower, more authentic island escape that feels worlds away from crowded tourist zones. These places don’t just compete with the Maldives—they outperform them for Indian travelers who want convenience, familiarity, and value.

Why Most Indians Skip Maldives Flights Altogether

Maldives flights from India usually mean a stopover in Sri Lanka or Dubai, pushing travel time to 8+ hours. Add the cost of a resort, meals, and activities, and you’re looking at ₹80,000+ for a 5-day trip. Compare that to a ₹25,000 trip to Andaman, where you can stay in a beachside cabin, eat fresh seafood daily, and snorkel for free. Plus, no need for a visa. No foreign currency. No language barrier. And with India’s own 42 UNESCO heritage sites and countless temple tours, you’re not just saving money—you’re gaining cultural depth.

The real question isn’t whether Maldives flights are worth it—it’s whether you’re missing out on better options right at home. Below, you’ll find real traveler-tested guides on the islands, beaches, and hidden gems that beat the Maldives in every way that matters: price, ease, authenticity, and beauty. Whether you’re planning a honeymoon, a solo escape, or a family getaway, the alternatives are here—and they’re closer than you think.