Why go to the Maldives when you can go to Kalpeni? That’s what we found out on our recent family vacation—six of us, three generations, one unforgettable island vacation! Affordable, serene, and stunningly beautiful, Kalpeni Island in Lakshadweep proved to be the best decision we made this year.
Day 1: Sailing into Paradise from Kochi
We left from Kochi aboard a cruise ship, one of the Samudram Package tours by SPORTS (Society for Promotion of Nature Tourism and Sports). It’s a government-sponsored trip, and in all honesty, it’s slick, well-arranged, and budget-friendly. The ship was tidy, there were meals, and the trip took 14–15 hours overnight. The children enjoyed sleeping on the ship, and my parents appreciated viewing the sea extending endlessly beneath moonlight
By late morning the following day—hello Kalpeni! The instant we disembarked from the ship, we were welcomed by turquoise waters, swaying palms, and an island that seemed to have stepped straight out of a postcard, minus the tourists.
Day 2: Lagoon Love & Coral Dreams
We lodged in a beachfront government guesthouse (basic, but extremely clean and just by the sea). We had a speedy breakfast of idlis and fresh fruits, and then plunged into activities:
Snorkeling in the lagoon—even my 10-year-old gave it a shot! Shallow, safe, and teeming with rainbow fish and coral.
Kayaking with my partner while the grandparents lounged under coconut trees.
In the afternoon, we took a glass-bottom boat tour. The children shrieked with delight seeing sea cucumbers, clownfish, and colorful coral gardens beneath.
The atmosphere? Relaxed, non-touristy, and soul-rejuvenating.
Day 3: Cycling the Island & Secret Sunsets
Kalpeni is tiny and flat—ideal for exploring by bike (which can be hired at the guesthouse). We took a picnic and cycled through tiny villages, laughing locals, and ended up at Tip Beach, where the reef shelf drops off into the ocean spectacularly.
The pick of the day? The sunset. The whole family just sat together, toes in the sand, as the sky dissolved into pink and orange. No filter required.
Back at the guesthouse, dinner was local style—just-grilled fish, coconut rice, and a side of tales under the stars.
Why We Loved It
No crowds. No noise. Just us and nature.
Activities for all ages, from snorkeling to leisurely beach strolls.
Way less expensive than a Maldives trip—with the same blue water.
Real bonding time, no-tech, stress-free.
Final Thoughts
Kalpeni is not only a secret paradise. It’s the ideal tropical getaway for families seeking connection rather than luxury, and adventure without the cost.
Already making plans for our return visit. Next time—scuba diving and perhaps a stay on Minicoy as well!
Let the world hurry to the Maldives. We discovered our paradise, right here in India.
