How To Get To Maldives From Kochi [2025 Guide]
The quickest way to get to the Maldives from Kochi is by flying to Velana International Airport (MLE) in Malé. IndiGo and Maldivian airlines offer direct flights, with IndiGo having daily flights. The flight time is approximately 1 hour 30 minutes for a non-stop flight.
If you’re dreaming of turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and luxury resorts, the Maldives is the perfect getaway. The good news? From Kochi, India, getting to Maldives is very easy and affordable. Thanks to direct flights and short travel times, you can reach paradise in just a few hours. This 2025 guide explains the best travel options, flight costs, distances, and helpful tips for planning your trip from Kochi to Maldives.
Flights from Kochi to Maldives
Kochi is one of the best-connected Indian cities for traveling to the Maldives. Direct flights make the journey quick and simple.
- Main departure airport: Cochin International Airport (COK).
- Destination airport: Velana International Airport (MLE), Malé.
- Direct flight duration: ~1 hour 45 minutes.
- Airlines with direct flights: IndiGo, Maldivian Airlines, SriLankan Airlines.
- Average round-trip cost: ₹12,000 – ₹22,000.
This makes flying the fastest and cheapest way to travel from Kochi to Maldives.
✈️ Best Flight Routes from Kochi to Maldives
1. Direct Flight: Kochi → Malé
- Duration: ~1 hr 45 min.
- Cost: ₹12,000 – ₹22,000 (round trip).
- Airlines: IndiGo, Maldivian Airlines, SriLankan Airlines.
- Benefit: Cheapest and fastest route.
2. One-Stop Flight: Kochi → Colombo → Malé (SriLankan Airlines)
- Duration: 4–6 hours (including layover).
- Cost: ₹15,000 – ₹25,000.
- Benefit: Good option if direct flights are full.
3. One-Stop Flight: Kochi → Bangalore/Chennai → Malé
- Duration: 5–7 hours depending on layover.
- Cost: ₹14,000 – ₹24,000.
- Airlines: IndiGo, Air India, Vistara.
- Benefit: More daily flight options.
Ferry or Sea Travel from Kochi to Maldives
In the past, there were discussions about starting passenger ferries between Kochi and Maldives, but as of 2025, no regular passenger ferry services are available. Cargo ships do operate, but for tourists, flying is the only reliable option.
Don’t forget to check our partner website here to make a reservation for your stay.
Distance Between Kochi and Maldives
- Kochi to Malé: ~620 km.
- Direct flight time: ~1 hr 45 min.
- By sea (if available): ~2 days of travel.
Travel Tips for Kochi to Maldives Travelers
- Visa-Free Entry – Indian citizens get a 30-day free visa on arrival in Maldives.
- Best Time to Visit – November to April (dry season) for the best weather.
- Currency – Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but US dollars are widely accepted.
- Island Transfers – From Malé, you’ll need a speedboat or seaplane to reach your resort (cost: ₹4,000 – ₹40,000 depending on distance).
- Budget Options ️ – Instead of luxury resorts, you can stay in local guesthouses on inhabited islands like Maafushi for cheaper stays.
Summary Table: Kochi to Maldives Travel Options
| Route | Airlines | Duration | Cost (Round Trip) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kochi → Malé (Direct) | IndiGo, Maldivian, SriLankan | 1 hr 45 min | ₹12k–22k | Fastest & cheapest |
| Kochi → Colombo → Malé | SriLankan Airlines | 4–6 hrs | ₹15k–25k | Smooth option via Colombo |
| Kochi → Bangalore/Chennai → Malé | IndiGo, Air India, Vistara | 5–7 hrs | ₹14k–24k | More flight frequency |
| Sea/Yacht | Private charter only | 2+ days | Very expensive | Not practical for tourists |
❓ FAQs on Traveling from Kochi to Maldives
Q1. How long is the flight from Kochi to Maldives?
Direct flights take around 1 hour 45 minutes.
Q2. Which airlines fly direct from Kochi to Maldives?
IndiGo, Maldivian Airlines, and SriLankan Airlines operate direct flights.
Q3. Do Indians need a visa to visit Maldives?
No, Indian citizens get a 30-day free tourist visa on arrival.
Q4. What is the cheapest way to reach Maldives from Kochi?
The cheapest and best way is a direct low-cost airline flight like IndiGo.
Q5. Can I travel to Maldives by ship from Kochi?
No regular passenger ferries exist in 2025, so flying is the only practical way.
✅ That’s the complete 2025 guide on how to get to Maldives from Kochi. With cheap direct flights under 2 hours, Maldives is one of the easiest international trips you can take from Kerala. ️✈️
