Lakshadweep vs Maldives: Which Island Should You Visit?

Lakshadweep and the Maldives both feature turquoise waters, beaches, and coral reefs. 

Lakshadweep is India’s hidden gem, made up of 36 islands. It feels untouched, far less crowded, and cost-effective. There’s a strong local culture as well; you feel like you’re part of a real community rather than just visiting a tourist hotspot. There’s a strong local culture as well; you feel like you’re part of a real community rather than just visiting a tourist hotspot.

The Maldives, on the other hand, is a major international destination for extravagance. It has over a thousand islands, famous for its luxury resorts and those iconic overwater villas. The underwater experiences are unbeatable, and it’s a favourite for honeymooners for a reason.

To choose between Lakshadweep vs Maldives, read the complete guide and understand what each destination offers.

Which would you choose: Lakshadweep or the Maldives? 

Go for Lakshadweep if you want something affordable, a little more under-the-radar, and full of authentic Indian island life. 

If you’re after luxury, top-tier diving sites, and you’re ready to splurge for that perfect tropical escape, the Maldives is the place for you.

Quick Comparison: Lakshadweep vs Maldives

Geography of Lakshadweep and the Maldives

This section provides a detailed geographical comparison of Lakshadweep and the Maldives.

The Maldives: Location and Size

The Maldives sits southwest of India and Sri Lanka, stretching 820 km north to south across the equator. 

Key geographical facts include

• Total islands: 1,192 coral islands in 26 natural atolls
• Land area: 298 square kilometres total
• Ocean spread: Covers 90,000 square kilometres
• Inhabited islands: Over 200 islands with local communities
• Resort islands: Around 150 premier properties
• Capital: Malé

Lakshadweep: Location and Size

Lakshadweep lies 200 to 440 km off Kerala’s coast in the Arabian Sea. This Indian Union Territory is compact

• Total islands: 36 coral islands
• Land area: Only 32 square kilometres
• Inhabited islands: 10 with permanent residents
• Capital: Kavaratti
• Groups: Amindivi Islands in the north, Laccadive Islands in the centre, and Minicoy in the south
• Stretch: About 400 km north to south
• Population: Approximately 70,000 people

Distance Between the Two: Maldives vs Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep and the Maldives are roughly 700 km apart, depending on which islands you measure. 

Key points

• Both formed from coral reef systems in the Indian Ocean
• No direct transport links between them
• Travel between the two requires returning to the Indian mainland first
• Similar tropical climates and marine environments

Visa and Flight Details for Lakshadweep & Maldives

Knowing the key information to reach these two islands helps you plan more effectively. This section can help you estimate the significant expenses, such as the flights.

Know this for reaching the Maldives

• Visa: Indian passport holders get a free 30-day visa on arrival in the Maldives. You will need a passport valid for at least six months, a confirmed hotel booking, proof of sufficient funds and a return flight ticket.
• Flights: There are numerous direct flights from major Indian cities, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Kochi, to Malé’s Velana International Airport. 
  • Duration: 3 to 7 hours (depending on the city you board)
  • Cost: Approx. 23,000 INR (round-trip flight)

Know this for reaching Lakshadweep

• Permits: Indian citizens need to obtain an entry permit from the Lakshadweep Administration. You can apply online via the Lakshadweep Tourism website. Plan to book your permit 2 months in advance and have it ready 10 days before you arrive in Lakshadweep. 
• Flights: There are daily flights from Kochi to Agatti Island, the only airport in Lakshadweep. After arriving at Agatti, travellers can take speedboats or helicopters to reach other islands, including Bangaram, Kavaratti, and Kadmat.
  • Duration: 1.5 hours (from Kochi)
  • Cost: Approx. 12,000 INR (round-trip flight from Kochi)
• Ships: The Lakshadweep government has arranged a ship, Samudram Packages, departing from Kochi for travellers. Take a flight or bus to Kochi, then book a 5-day cruise to Lakshadweep instead. 

This programme takes you to 3 different islands

• Kavaratti
• Minicoy
• Kalpeni

Cost: Approx. 30,000 – 40,000 INR (depending on the type of rooms)

Note: Food, snacks, island transport, and one complimentary water activity are included in the package. 

Accommodation Options in Lakshadweep & Maldives

Once you are on the islands, the place you stay will determine your experience. Do you prefer an activity-filled day in the Maldives or a calm overwater villa stay? 

In Lakshaweep, find cottages and local guesthouses for cultural explorations. 

Where to Stay in the Maldives?

In the Maldives, you can either stay on a private island or on a public island.

• Private island: Ultra luxury environments, secluded days & overwater villas
• Public island: Reasonably priced guesthouses and hotel accommodations 

Where to Stay in Lakshadweep?

Most visitors choose government-managed accommodations. These include beach huts and cottages located on islands such as Agatti, Kavaratti, Kadmat, and Minicoy. 

The cost per night ranges from 3,500 to 8,000 INR. The rooms are clean and affordable, with no luxury features, but they provide comfort and a homely feel.

Here are a few stay options in Lakshadweep

• Bangaram Island Resort: Ideal for those seeking an upscale experience. The beachfront cottages there cost between 30,000 and 40,000 INR per night. In return, you enjoy higher-quality food, a private beach, and a variety of water activities. 
• Agatti and Kadmat: Several private eco-resorts have also opened on these islands, with prices ranging from 5,000 to 12,000 INR per night.
• Kavaratti and Minicoy: If you wish to experience the local culture, homestays and guesthouses are available on these islands. These options are budget-friendly, priced between 5,000 and 9,000 INR per night, and offer guests an authentic island experience. 

Water Sports Activities in Lakshadweep & Maldives

Both islands offer great water experiences. Swimming and sunbathing are popular in both destinations. However, if you want a wider range of activities, the Maldives is a better option. For scuba diving and snorkelling, the Maldives generally offers richer marine life and better visibility.

Ultimately, it all depends on the overall experience, so read all the sections and pick your favourite island. 

Water Activities in the Maldives

Scuba diving in the Maldives is well known, with more than 100+ dive sites spread throughout the islands. The cost of a dive is usually around 10,000 INR, and many resorts offer PADI certification courses for those who want to learn.

Snorkelling in the Maldives is also excellent and more relaxed than diving. Many resorts have their own house reefs, where you can see turtles, rays, and many colourful fish close to your room. 

Night snorkelling is famous in the Maldives, and it gives you a chance to see sea creatures that are active after sunset.

For those interested in more energetic activities, the Maldives has a variety of water sports, including:

• Jet skiing 
• Parasailing
• Wakeboarding and windsurfing
• Kitesurfing
• Flyboarding
• Banana boat ride
• Surfing
• Catamaran sailing
• Sunset fishing trips 

Water Activities in Lakshadweep

When on an island, the most famous activities are snorkelling and scuba diving. Snorkelling is very popular in Lakshadweep, particularly in Kadmat, Agatti, and Bangaram. The coral gardens are close to the shore. It’s easy to spot parrotfish, angelfish, and turtles. 

For those looking for more adventure, scuba diving at Bangaram and Kadmat is recommended. Certified divers may see reef sharks, groupers, and, at times, dolphins. 

There are also many activities available

• Kayaking
• Windsurfing
• Canoeing
• Jet skiing
• Paddleboarding
• Island hopping
• Fishing
• Glass-bottom boat rides
• Banana boat rides

Local Experience in Lakshadweep and the Maldives

Island life is a new experience for many travellers and often becomes the highlight of the trip.

When travelling to islands, you get a chance to skip the typical city lights. Simply enjoy the island days, exhilarating water sports and get the best ocean views.

The Maldives life

Maldivian culture blends South Asian, Arab, and African influences. For a more authentic local stay, choose inhabited islands rather than a secluded private resort island. Visit Malé or islands like Maafushi to see real Maldivian life, to get this:

• Early morning fish market 
• Grand Friday Mosque
• Narrow streets with colourful houses and tea shops
• Local craft shops selling handmade items
• Watch locals making lacquerwork, mat weaving, and wooden boat building

The Lakshadweep life

Lakshadweep culture blends Kerala and Muslim traditions with a high Muslim population, and you get calm village experiences:

• Watch women weave coir products
• See fishermen repair nets and prepare boats
• Chat with friendly locals who maintain traditional lifestyles
• Stay in a guesthouse and spend time with locals

Major cultural essentials in the Maldives and Lakshadweep 

• No alcohol: Banned on local islands and available only on resort islands.
• Dress modestly: Cover shoulders and knees on inhabited islands.
• Swimwear: Only on resort beaches and uninhabited spots like Bangaram in Lakshadweep or Bikini Beaches in the Maldives public islands.
• Photography: Ask permission before taking pictures of people.
• Respect prayer times: Some activities pause on Fridays, and it is best to avoid loud noise near mosques.

Best Time to Visit Lakshadweep & the Maldives

Overall, both destinations stay warm year-round. Even in the wet season, there is usually plenty of opportunity to enjoy the beach.

The Maldives Weather and Seasons

Dry season: It lasts from November to April, featuring consistent sunshine, calm seas, and temperatures between 28 and 32°C. 

This is the most popular season in the Maldives, so expect larger crowds and higher prices, particularly around Christmas, New Year, and February when many Europeans visit to avoid winter. To ensure a reasonable price, it is best to book your trip 2 – 3 months in advance.

Wet monsoon: From May to October, the monsoon arrives, bringing more rainfall and occasional storms, mainly between June and August. 

The ocean can be rougher during these months. Rain typically falls in short showers rather than lasting all day. For scuba divers, this can be an excellent time, especially for manta ray sightings.

Also, the prices are lower during this time, making this an attractive option for travellers looking to save money and who do not mind occasional rain.

Shoulder seasons: April, May, October, and November, offer a balance of good weather, lower prices, and fewer tourists. You can avoid both the heavy rainfall and the busiest crowds during these months. 

For surfing, the best waves are found from June to September, especially in the southern and central atolls.

Lakshadweep Weather and Seasons

• October to May: Lakshadweep is at its best when the sea is calm, the skies are clear, and temperatures range from 25 to 32°C. This period is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and exploring the different islands. 
• December and February: If you plan to visit during these months, please note they are the busiest times of year. Hotels are often fully booked, so it is recommended to make reservations a few months in advance.
• June to September: The monsoon season brings heavy rains, high waves, and strong winds. During this time, ships do not operate, many islands are closed to tourists, and flights are frequently cancelled. Unless you are seeking complete solitude and are comfortable missing most activities, this is not a recommended time to visit.
• March to May: The weather warms, with temperatures between 30 and 35°C, and occasional pre-monsoon showers may occur. This season is a good choice for visitors who prefer fewer crowds, better hotel rates, and pleasant weather. The water remains clear, making it an excellent time for diving and snorkelling.

Conclusion

Lakshadweep and the Maldives both offer beautiful tropical island experiences, but they cater to different types of travellers. 

Lakshadweep is ideal for those who are mindful of their budget, travelling with family, or seeking natural, unspoiled surroundings rather than luxury amenities. 

The Maldives, on the other hand, is known for its high-end resorts and top-quality services, making it a popular destination for honeymoons and travellers seeking premium comfort and relaxation. 

If you want to spend less but still enjoy authentic island culture, scenic beaches, and good snorkelling opportunities, Lakshadweep is an excellent choice. 

Remember, with good planning, you can make luxury trips budget-friendly. If you want more ideas for planning itineraries and information on Maldives packages, contact us. 

Frequently Asked Questions on the Maldives vs Lakshadweep

Lakshadweep vs Maldives, which is better for Indian travellers?

For Indian travellers, Lakshadweep is generally more convenient. There is no need for a passport or visa; only an entry permit is required.

Flights from Kochi to Lakshadweep are typically more affordable (5,000 to 8,000 INR) than flights to the Maldives (9,000 to 14,000 INR). 

Communication is easier as Malayalam and Hindi are widely spoken, and familiar Indian food is readily available. 

However, if you are looking for an international travel experience with more developed infrastructure, the Maldives may be the better option despite the higher cost.

What is the distance between Lakshadweep and the Maldives?

Lakshadweep is located off the coast of Kerala, approximately 400 kilometres away in the Arabian Sea. It takes about 1.5 hours to fly from Kochi to Agatti, or 14 to 20 hours by ship. 

The Maldives is about 1,200 kilometres from the southern tip of India and 700 kilometres southwest of Sri Lanka. Direct flights from Indian cities such as Bangalore, Mumbai, or Kochi to Malé typically take between 3.5 and 4.5 hours. 

Although the Maldives is farther from India, more frequent flights make the journey easy.

Lakshadweep or Maldives, which is cheaper?

Lakshadweep is much more affordable than the Maldives. A five-day trip to Lakshadweep can cost between 25,000 and 40,000 INR per person, covering flights, permits, accommodation, meals, and activities. But if you are looking for luxury stays, it can exceed 70,000 INR.

In comparison, a budget trip to the Maldives typically starts at 80,000 INR per person for five days. If you are looking for overwater villa stays or beachfront resorts, expect to pay 40,000 – 150,000 INR per night or more. 

Therefore, if you are watching your expenses, Lakshadweep is the better choice.

Where should you take your kids?

Both Lakshadweep and the Maldives are suitable for family holidays, but they offer different experiences. 

Lakshadweep: It is a good choice if looking for a more affordable trip. The lagoons are shallow and calm, making them safe for children to swim in without significant risk of strong currents. The beaches are peaceful, and the overall environment is relaxed. 

Children can also observe local island life, such as coir-making from coconut husks, visiting fishing villages, and seeing coconut farming. 

The Maldives: Many resorts are well-suited for families, with kids’ clubs, pools, and babysitting services. 

However, these amenities come at a higher cost, as family rooms in the Maldives are usually much more expensive than those in Lakshadweep.

Consider your children’s ages when making your decision. Both destinations are enjoyable for younger children, but if you have teenagers, the Maldives may be worth the additional expense.

Varshini IR

With a passion for traveling and storytelling, the job found me for my crazy obsessions. For all the beauty I saw, I was still left wanting more. I guess that's what travel does to you. Now, I am on a quest to discover surreal places and connect with new people. And the longing to know every corner of the world will always be unstoppable for me.

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