Lakshadweep Travel Cost Breakdown: Budget, Midrange & Luxury Options – Lumiere Holidays

If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting turquoise waters, coral reefs, and sun-kissed beaches far away from the crowds, then Lakshadweep is the destination for you. But before you embark on this island adventure, it’s important to understand how much it costs to travel to this beautiful archipelago.

Whether you’re a backpacker, a comfort seeker, or a luxury traveler, Lakshadweep offers something for every budget. In this detailed cost breakdown, we’ll cover every expense — from flights and ship fares to accommodation, permits, and meals — to help you plan wisely. Plus, with the guidance of the best tour operators in Kerala and the best tour operators in South India, your trip can be seamless and affordable.

Why Visit Lakshadweep?

Lakshadweep, India’s smallest Union Territory, is made up of 36 islands scattered across the Arabian Sea. With pristine beaches, crystal lagoons, and vibrant coral reefs, it’s one of the most peaceful and untouched destinations in India. Unlike the Maldives, Lakshadweep offers a similar tropical charm at a much lower cost, making it ideal for those seeking both beauty and value.

How Much Does a Lakshadweep Trip Cost?

The total cost of a Lakshadweep trip depends on how you travel, where you stay, and what experiences you choose.

• Budget travelers can expect to spend around ₹25,000 to ₹30,000 for a short 3-day trip.

• Midrange travelers usually spend between ₹45,000 to ₹60,000 for a comfortable stay.

• Luxury travelers can expect to spend anywhere from ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000 or more, depending on the resort and activities chosen.

This includes transportation (flight or ship), accommodation, meals, permits, and activities.

Flights and Ship Fares

There are two main ways to reach Lakshadweep — by flight or ship.

• By Flight: Flights operate from Kochi to Agatti Island, which has the only airport in Lakshadweep. The most common carrier is Alliance Air. A round-trip ticket from Kochi usually costs between ₹8,000 and ₹12,000 during the off-season and ₹14,000 to ₹20,000 during peak season (October to March). Flights take around 1.5 hours, and booking early can help you secure cheaper fares.

• By Ship: If you want a more scenic journey, you can travel by passenger ship from Kochi to Lakshadweep. The ships — such as MV Kavaratti, MV Arabian Sea, and MV Lagoons — offer several classes ranging from economy to deluxe cabins.

• Economy tickets usually cost between ₹4,000 and ₹6,000.

• First-class cabins are around ₹8,000 to ₹10,000.

• Deluxe cabins can cost ₹12,000 to ₹15,000 for a round trip.

The journey takes about 14 to 18 hours depending on the island. Many of these ships are part of the Samudram Cruise packages run by Lakshadweep Tourism, which often include accommodation and meals.

Booking through the best tour operators in Kerala or best tour operators in South India, such as Lumiere Holidays, ensures that your travel bookings and permits are handled smoothly.

Accommodation Costs

Your stay will likely take up a major part of your travel budget, but there are options for every traveler type.

• Budget Options: If you’re traveling on a budget, government lodges and small homestays are available on islands like Kavaratti and Kadmat. These cost between ₹2,000 and ₹4,000 per night and offer basic facilities like fan-cooled rooms and local meals.

• Midrange Resorts: For travelers looking for more comfort, midrange resorts on islands such as Kadmat and Minicoy offer air-conditioned rooms and beach views. Prices typically range from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per night, depending on the season and amenities.

• Luxury Resorts: For those who want an exclusive island experience, luxury resorts such as Bangaram Island Resort and Agatti Island Resort offer private villas and beachfront cottages. These resorts can cost anywhere between ₹20,000 and ₹45,000 per night. Many of them include meals, transfers, and water sports in their packages.

Booking through Lumiere Holidays, one of the best tour operators in Kerala, can often get you better rates, along with added inclusions like guided tours and activity packages.

Entry Permits and Fees

All visitors, including Indian citizens, need an entry permit to visit Lakshadweep. This is to protect the fragile ecosystem and ensure controlled tourism.

The permit fee generally ranges between ₹200 and ₹400 per person. It can be arranged through the Lakshadweep Administration Office or authorized tour operators in Kochi. The processing time is usually three to five working days.

You’ll need to submit a valid ID proof (such as Aadhaar or Passport), a completed application form, and a copy of your itinerary. Foreign nationals are allowed on select islands and must apply through authorized agencies.

Booking your trip with Lumiere Holidays ensures that all your permits are processed without any delays or complications.

Food and Dining Costs

Lakshadweep offers a blend of simple yet delicious coastal cuisine. Expect fresh seafood, coconut-infused curries, and tropical fruits.

• Local eateries offer budget meals for around ₹200 to ₹400 per meal.

• Midrange resort restaurants may cost between ₹600 and ₹900 per meal.

• Luxury resorts can charge between ₹1,500 and ₹3,000 for a full-course meal, especially if it includes seafood platters or private dining experiences.

Popular dishes to try include tuna curry, coconut fish stew, parottas, and breadfruit chips. Many resorts provide full-board meal plans, which include breakfast, lunch, and dinner — a convenient and cost-effective option.

Activities and Sightseeing Costs

A trip to Lakshadweep is incomplete without water sports and island experiences. Here’s what you can expect to spend:

• Snorkeling: ₹500 to ₹1,000 per person

• Scuba Diving: ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 depending on the dive type

• Kayaking: ₹800 to ₹1,500

• Glass-Bottom Boat Rides: ₹1,000 to ₹2,000

• Island Hopping Tours: ₹2,500 to ₹5,000

Luxury resorts also offer customized activities like private sunset cruises, romantic beach dinners, and professional diving sessions, which come at a premium price.

Estimated Total Trip Cost by Category

If you’re planning a 3-day Lakshadweep trip, here’s an approximate cost outline:

• Budget Travelers: Around ₹25,000 to ₹30,000 including transport, food, and basic lodging.

• Midrange Travelers: ₹45,000 to ₹60,000 for comfortable resorts and organized activities.

• Luxury Travelers: ₹1,00,000 to ₹1,50,000 or more for private villas, premium flights, and exclusive experiences.

Best Time to Visit Lakshadweep

The best time to visit Lakshadweep is between October and March, when the sea is calm, and the weather is pleasant for snorkeling, diving, and sunbathing. The months from June to September bring heavy monsoon rains and rough seas, making travel difficult.

Booking your trip during the shoulder months (September and April) can help you save on accommodation and travel costs while still enjoying good weather.

How to Plan Economically with Tour Operators

Planning your own Lakshadweep trip can be tricky because of restricted access, limited accommodations, and permit requirements. Choosing the best tour operators in Kerala or best tour operators in South India can make a big difference.

Tour operators like Lumiere Holidays provide:

• Hassle-free permit arrangements

• Discounted package combinations (flight or ship + stay + meals)

• Expert itinerary planning

• Safe and reliable travel coordination

They can also customize your trip based on your budget — whether you prefer a budget group tour or a romantic luxury getaway.

Tips to Save Money on Your Lakshadweep Trip

1. Book flights or ships early — last-minute tickets can be very expensive.

2. Travel during off-season or shoulder months to get better deals on resorts.

3. Opt for package tours that include accommodation, meals, and permits.

4. Choose government resorts or group packages for more affordable rates.

5. Select full-board plans so you don’t have to spend extra on food.

Conclusion

Lakshadweep isn’t just about scenic beaches and coral reefs — it’s also about experiencing a peaceful island lifestyle at your own pace. Whether you’re traveling on a tight budget or splurging on luxury, every type of traveler can find their perfect Lakshadweep escape.

To make your journey stress-free, plan your trip with Lumiere Holidays, one of the best tour operators in Kerala and the best tour operators in South India. From securing permits to arranging flights, stays, and activities, Lumiere Holidays ensures a smooth and memorable island vacation.

FAQs

1. How much does a trip to Lakshadweep cost from Kerala?

A 3–4 day trip costs between ₹25,000 for budget travelers and ₹1,50,000 for luxury travelers, depending on travel and stay preferences.

2. Is Lakshadweep cheaper than the Maldives?

Yes, Lakshadweep is significantly cheaper while offering a similar tropical island experience with fewer crowds.

3. How can I reach Lakshadweep from Kochi?

You can either take a flight to Agatti Island or travel by passenger ship operated by Lakshadweep Tourism.

4. Do I need a permit to visit Lakshadweep?

Yes, all visitors, including Indian citizens, must obtain an entry permit, which can be arranged through authorized tour operators.

5. Are cruise packages available to Lakshadweep?

Yes, the Samudram Cruise from Kochi offers ship travel with onboard accommodation and meals.

6. What is the best time to visit Lakshadweep?

October to March is the best time, offering pleasant weather and calm seas.

7. Are there luxury resorts in Lakshadweep?

Yes, Bangaram Island Resort and Agatti Island Resort are popular options for luxury stays.

8. Can foreigners visit Lakshadweep?

Yes, but only on select islands with special permits issued through authorized travel agencies.

9. What type of food is available in Lakshadweep?

Expect fresh seafood, coconut-rich curries, and tropical fruits at local eateries and resorts.

10. Which is the best travel agency for Lakshadweep packages?

Lumiere Holidays, among the best tour operators in Kerala and South India, offers customized Lakshadweep packages for all budgets.