Broke On Date Night? Here’s What You Can Do In Kolkata For Under INR 100

Love live music? You can’t miss the action and activities of the Live In Series. Jugalbandi to jazz, since 2011 local artists have been performing in concerts, open air performances and more. Most of the performances are free and open to all (they’re all in public places).

The vibe is super relaxed and with the weather getting better, the outdoor events are the place to be. Over the weekend, head to Live In Lakes (Rabindra Sarobar) or Live In Parks (in Deshapriya Park) – no entrance fee, no prior registration, nothing.

Ditch the crowded Victoria Memorial, Elliot Park is just around the corner from there (you can even make a quick stop at the quaint St Paul’s Cathedral which is just opposite the park) and is an epitome of greenery and privacy. Entry is free and you get to enjoy pretty fountains and lush greenery.

There are also guards who patrol here, so it’s pretty safe. Occasionally the grounds also host to events and concerts for nominal entry fee in case you want a budget evening out.

Millennium Park along the strand is a perfect spot for an eventful date. Packed with vendors and families, it’s very safe and secure. Get some gorgeous pictures looking out on to the river. There are also a handful of rides  – a perfect excuse to grab bae’s hand.

Grab a seat under the round benches covered with ‘permanent umbrellas’ in case it starts to rain. Entry will set you around INR 5. The park is open from 10am to 6:30pm – check timings before you go though since the winter closing time is earlier!

The 480-acre Eco Park property is not only a hotspot for power-packed activities (they even have couples ‘duo’ cycling to heat things up) which are a great ice breaker for a first date or hire a kayak and make your way to the middle of the lake. For all the ‘seasoned couples, there are enough and more quiet spots away from the prying eyes of judgey uncles and aunties.

Take advantage of the long car drive there as a build-up to the romance! Entry is for just INR 20 but you need to pay additionally for every activity.

Are you guys a foodie couple but cant afford a fancy dinner? Take a food street walk. Zakaria Street, Territti Bazaar, Gariahat and Vivekananda Park areas are all great places to fulfil your phuchka fantasies. Share a plate of chaat with bae or split a kabiraji cutlet – few things show that you love someone more than sharing your food with them.

Up for some spooky stuff? Head to the Indian Museum where entry is just INR 20. The air-conditioned Egyptian room is the main attraction (it’s home to an actual mummy from Egypt). You and bae can spend hours at the museum rediscovering India’s past with bae. After your visit, walk down to the food complex nearby and grab a couple of momos or pizzas.