How To Get To Maldives From Kerala [2025 Guide]
To get to the Maldives from Kerala, you’ll need to fly. Direct flights are available from Trivandrum (TRV) and Kochi (COK) to Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé, the capital of the Maldives.
Planning a trip from Kerala to Maldives in 2025? You’re in luck because Kerala is one of the closest Indian states to the Maldives, making travel much easier compared to other regions. With direct flights from Kochi, Trivandrum, and Calicut, reaching the Maldives is quick, affordable, and convenient. This guide explains all the ways you can get to Maldives from Kerala, flight options, costs, distances, and useful travel tips.
Direct Flights from Kerala to Maldives
Kerala has multiple international airports with direct connections to Velana International Airport (Malé – MLE).
- Airports with direct flights: Kochi (COK), Trivandrum (TRV), Calicut (CCJ).
- Airlines operating: IndiGo, Maldivian, SriLankan Airlines.
- Flight time: 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Round-trip cost: ₹12,000 – ₹22,000.
This is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Maldives from Kerala.
✈️ Best Flight Routes from Kerala to Maldives
1. Kochi → Malé (Direct)
- Airlines: IndiGo, Maldivian.
- Duration: ~1 hr 45 min.
- Cost: ₹12,000 – ₹18,000.
- Best for: Budget and short travel time.
2. Trivandrum → Malé (Direct)
- Airlines: IndiGo, Maldivian.
- Duration: ~1 hr 30 min.
- Cost: ₹13,000 – ₹20,000.
- Best for: Southern Kerala travelers.
3. Calicut → Malé (Direct)
- Airlines: IndiGo, Maldivian.
- Duration: ~2 hrs.
- Cost: ₹14,000 – ₹22,000.
- Best for: Northern Kerala travelers.
4. Kerala → Bangalore/Chennai → Malé
- Airlines: IndiGo, Vistara, Air India.
- Duration: 4–6 hrs with layover.
- Cost: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000.
- Best for: When direct flights are expensive or unavailable.
Sea Travel from Kerala to Maldives
Since Kerala is close to Maldives, many wonder about sea options.
- Currently, no regular passenger ferry services operate from Kerala to Maldives in 2025.
- However, occasional cruise ships and private yacht charters connect Kochi to Malé.
- Travel time: 2–3 days by sea.
- Cost: Much higher than flights, making it a luxury option rather than budget travel.
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Distance Between Kerala and Maldives
- Kochi to Malé (air): ~610 km.
- Trivandrum to Malé (air): ~600 km.
- Calicut to Malé (air): ~640 km.
- Flight time: 1.5–2 hours (direct).
Travel Tips for Kerala to Maldives Travelers
- Visa-Free Entry – Indians don’t need a pre-arranged visa; Maldives gives 30-day free visa on arrival.
- Best Time to Visit – November to April for sunny weather and calm seas.
- Currency – Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but US dollars are widely accepted.
- Island Transfers – After reaching Malé, resorts may require speedboats (₹4k–10k) or seaplanes (₹20k–40k).
- Budget Travel Option – Stay on local islands like Maafushi, Dhiffushi, or Thulusdhoo instead of only resorts.
Summary Table: Kerala to Maldives Travel Options
| Route | Airlines | Duration | Cost (Round Trip) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kochi → Malé (Direct) | IndiGo, Maldivian | 1 hr 45 min | ₹12k–18k | Fastest & cheapest |
| Trivandrum → Malé (Direct) | IndiGo, Maldivian | 1 hr 30 min | ₹13k–20k | Best for south Kerala |
| Calicut → Malé (Direct) | IndiGo, Maldivian | 2 hrs | ₹14k–22k | Best for north Kerala |
| Kerala → via Bangalore/Chennai → Malé | IndiGo, Vistara, Air India | 4–6 hrs | ₹15k–25k | Backup option |
| Cruise/Yacht from Kochi → Malé | Luxury cruise | 2–3 days | ₹60k+ | Luxury only |
❓ FAQs on Traveling from Kerala to Maldives
Q1. Is there a direct flight from Kerala to Maldives?
Yes, direct flights are available from Kochi, Trivandrum, and Calicut.
Q2. How long does it take to fly from Kerala to Maldives?
Just 1.5 to 2 hours by direct flight.
Q3. What is the cheapest way to travel from Kerala to Maldives?
The cheapest and fastest way is a direct flight from Kochi to Malé.
Q4. Can I travel to Maldives by ship from Kerala?
No regular ferries exist, but luxury cruises or private yachts may operate from Kochi to Malé.
Q5. Do Indians need a visa to visit Maldives?
No, Indians get a 30-day free visa on arrival in Maldives.
✅ That’s your complete 2025 guide on how to get to Maldives from Kerala. With short direct flights from Kochi, Trivandrum, and Calicut, reaching Maldives is quick and affordable—perfect for a tropical getaway just a couple of hours away! ✈️
