Planning a Lakshadweep getaway without burning a hole in your pocket? Kavaratti offers a magical mix of nature, culture, and serenity at budget-friendly prices. This SavePlus India guide reveals 11 exciting, cost-effective things to do in Kavaratti—using wallet-friendly hacks, travel offers, and smart savings tricks to make your trip unforgettable and affordable.
Snorkeling in the Shimmering Lagoon
Kavaratti’s coral-rich waters offer one of the most affordable snorkeling experiences in India. The lagoon is ideal for first-timers and kids due to its shallow, calm waters. Locals offer budget snorkeling tours with gear, ensuring safety and fun. Rich biodiversity, vibrant reefs, and colorful fish make the experience breathtaking. With minimal entry and equipment costs, it’s the best value water sport here. Booking early online helps you secure great rates.
- Witness marine life like parrotfish, clownfish, and moray eels up close in clear waters.
- Local instructors provide safety vests, fins, and guidance, making it accessible to all.
- Book early via online platforms during festive seasons to enjoy discounted combo packages.
Cost: ₹500 approx per person
Pro Tip: Use Cleartrip promo codes from SavePlus India for extra savings.
Visit the Marine Aquarium
The Marine Aquarium is perfect for those who love marine biology or want to escape the sun. It houses numerous exotic species and educates visitors about Lakshadweep’s unique ecology. Easily accessible near the jetty, it’s a low-cost and educational indoor attraction. The aquarium is clean, well-maintained, and great for family visits. Interactive exhibits offer a peek into ocean conservation efforts. A short 30-minute visit can enrich your island experience.
- Spot rare sea creatures like sea cucumbers, eels, and baby sharks in live tanks.
- Entry is just ₹20 and the experience is air-conditioned and kid-friendly.
- Located within walking distance from the main port, saving you travel expenses.
Cost: ₹20 entry per person
Pro Tip: Use Paytm cashback on bundled local activity passes.
Evening Walk at Sunset Beach
This activity is entirely free and deeply rejuvenating. Sunset Beach in Kavaratti offers golden sands and peaceful breezes that calm your senses. Locals and tourists alike gather here to wind down after a tropical day. It’s an excellent photography spot for social media enthusiasts. Snack stalls selling tea and banana fritters add to the charm. The best part? It’s available every evening, no reservations needed.
- Watch vibrant sunsets that paint the sea in orange and pink hues.
- Enjoy freshly prepared snacks like samosas and pakoras from street-side stalls.
- Capture reel-worthy content with minimal effort and natural lighting.
Cost: Free
Pro Tip: Use your Flipkart coupons to buy mobile tripods for steady sunset videos.
Try Authentic Malabar Dishes
The island’s cuisine is rich in coconut, spices, and seafood influences from Kerala. Numerous homestays and community kitchens offer authentic meals at very low prices. You can enjoy local thalis for less than your daily chai budget. Dishes like Kappa biryani, fish curry, and Malabar parotta dominate menus. Meals are usually served fresh on banana leaves. It’s a cultural as well as culinary experience worth every rupee.
- Sample spicy seafood dishes like tuna masala, prawn fry, and squid roast.
- Opt for vegetarian options like avial, thoran, and sambar for under ₹90.
- Dine at women-run community kitchens to support locals and taste authentic flavors.
Cost: ₹80 to ₹100 per meal
Pro Tip: Pay using SBI YONO app for festival-time cashback deals.
Kayaking for a Solo Water Adventure
Experience Kavaratti’s lagoon at your own pace by renting a kayak. It’s a solo-friendly and eco-friendly water sport. Early mornings offer the best weather and fewer boats in the water. Many rental shops provide safety equipment and basic instructions. It's a great physical activity and a peaceful way to explore the shoreline. Prices are cheaper than other water sports like jet skiing.
- Rent single or tandem kayaks for an hour and explore the coast silently.
- Watch seabirds and small flying fish as you paddle across the shallow waters.
- Enjoy personal time on the water with minimal crowd and maximum tranquility.
Cost: ₹300–₹350 per hour
Pro Tip: Book with Amazon Pay wallet during festive shopping events for instant discounts.
Stargazing at the Island Jetty
Thanks to low light pollution, Kavaratti's night skies are crystal clear. Stargazing here feels like visiting a planetarium for free. Bring a mat and spend an hour lying under constellations. Use apps to identify stars and planets. Late nights are quiet and safe. Ideal for couples, photographers, and solo thinkers alike.
- Best viewed from the jetty or open beaches away from any street lights.
- Great for long-exposure photography using your smartphone or DSLR.
- Listen to waves and the night breeze while enjoying a unique celestial show.
Cost: Free
Pro Tip: Buy a high-capacity power bank using Ajio promo codes on SavePlus India.
Explore Ujra Mosque
Ujra Mosque is both a spiritual and architectural highlight of Kavaratti. It was built centuries ago using coral stone and wood. The carvings and the tank inside make it one of the most unique mosques in India. The prayer area and surrounding garden are serene and well-maintained. Visitors are welcome, especially during non-prayer hours. Photography is allowed with respect to religious decorum.
- Admire Indo-Arab architecture and coral stone craftsmanship up close.
- Visit during the early morning when the surroundings are peaceful and clean.
- Women and men can enter, but modest clothing is recommended.
Cost: Free
Pro Tip: Use Google Pay ride discounts for travel to this historic spot.
Glass-Bottom Boat Ride
This is a fun and educational ride that lets you observe coral reefs from above. Ideal for those not keen on swimming or snorkeling. Boats come with glass panels to view marine life clearly. Great for families with kids or elderly tourists. Tours are short but memorable. Book at the beach or in advance during weekends.
- Spot clownfish, sea urchins, and coral beds without getting wet.
- Boats are guided, ensuring you understand what you're viewing underneath.
- Perfect for photography and marine education without any swimming involved.
Cost: ₹300–₹400 per person
Pro Tip: Look for combo water activity passes using SavePlus holiday links.
Lighthouse Point Photography
Lighthouse Point offers the most panoramic view of the island and surrounding ocean. It’s popular among photographers and sunrise lovers. The view from the top captures Kavaratti's green cover, lagoons, and marine shades. Climbing to the top takes under 10 minutes. Entry is usually free or minimally charged. Visit during the golden hour for the best lighting.
- Snap wide-angle shots of Kavaratti’s coastline and shallow reefs.
- The surrounding gardens are quiet, ideal for seated breaks or meditation.
- Capture reflection photos during sunrise or sunset without editing filters.
Cost: ₹10–₹20
Pro Tip: Use Flipkart fashion offers to dress up affordably for Instagram-worthy pictures.
Rent a Cycle and Roam Freely
Cycling is the best way to explore Kavaratti on a budget. The island’s flat roads and short distances make cycling fun and safe. Rentals are available near the port and major guest houses. It allows you to discover hidden alleys, local temples, and scenic points. A great way to stay active during vacation. Fuel-free and eco-conscious, it’s perfect for solo and group travelers.
- Cycle rentals cost less than your daily chai and are available per hour or per day.
- Cover beaches, town centers, and markets without spending on autos or cabs.
- Helmets and locks are included, making it safe for kids and adults alike.
Cost: ₹50–₹100 per day
Pro Tip: Apply Mobikwik offers during travel season for instant rental cashback.
Shop Local Handicrafts
Shopping locally is both budget-friendly and culturally enriching. Kavaratti’s small markets offer handmade coir crafts, jewelry, and shell art. Most shops are run by local women and accept digital payments. Products are unique and not found in mainland stores. Bargaining is common and expected. A great way to take home authentic souvenirs without overspending.
- Explore handmade items like shell bracelets, keychains, and coir baskets.
- Visit evening markets near the ferry terminal for fresh inventory and deals.
- Gifts are lightweight and perfect for taking back home or gifting friends.
Cost: ₹100–₹300 per item
Pro Tip: Use HDFC festive offers to shop with no-cost EMI on bulk purchases.
Conclusion
Kavaratti proves you don’t need a hefty budget to explore a tropical paradise. From water sports to cultural sites, every experience offers high value for low cost. Use SavePlus India’s trusted offers, wallet hacks, and festive deals to make your trip smarter and more economical. Pack light, spend smart, and unlock the charm of Lakshadweep without financial stress.
FAQ
What’s the best time to visit Kavaratti on a budget?
The off-season months between July and September offer fewer tourists and better rates on ferries, stays, and activities.
Are there vegetarian food options available on the island?
Yes, most local eateries offer vegetarian thalis, South Indian staples, and coconut-based curries for budget-friendly prices.
How do I travel to Kavaratti economically from mainland India?
Ferries from Kochi are the most affordable option. Booking early during festive offers through SavePlus India can save even more.
Can I use UPI or digital wallets on the island?
Yes, most shops and services accept UPI, Google Pay, Paytm, and PhonePe, especially around the main port and markets.
Are these activities safe for solo travelers?
Absolutely. Kavaratti is considered one of the safest islands for solo travelers, with friendly locals and helpful tourism staff.