Kolkata, arguably India’s most creative city, attracts people from across the country and worldwide. The city is renowned for its vibrant nightlife. Discover Kolkata’s nighttime magic with our guide to things to do after dark. From enjoying a ride on the Hooghly River, experiencing live music at pubs, and even going on a crime-themed walk, here are some fantastic activities to enjoy in Kolkata at night.
Kolkata is a treasure trove for music lovers, showcasing a lively indie scene where local bands share their original songs. Picture yourself enjoying live performances in charming pubs nestled within heritage homes or at iconic venues on Park Street, which have captivated audiences since the 1950s. Don’t miss the chance to immerse yourself in this dynamic atmosphere after the sun sets. Check here for our list of places for the best live music in Kolkata.
This walk is organized periodically by the city-based outfit IMMERSIVE TRAILS, which draws inspiration from real-life crime stories dating from the 1850s to the 1890s. These stories are recounted through police officers' personal diaries and press articles, featuring headlines like "Jewish housewife discovered brutally killed in her bedroom" and "A queen and her accomplices loot a jewellery store." Participants will stroll through the actual locations where these events occurred, examining the incidents from sociocultural, racial, and gender dynamics perspectives. Some of the cases remain unresolved. You'll also have the chance to explore some of Kolkata's most intriguing neighbourhoods, including Armenian Street, Ezra Street, Pollock Street, and Amratolla Lane.
For more details, visit www.immersivetrails.com.
A trip to Kolkata is complete with a ride on the Hooghly River. You can choose from a nouko (a small traditional, oar-driven boat), a ferry, or a barge ride. The riverside hotel, Polo Floatel, offers themed boat rides. The best time to explore the river is just before sunset when the twin bridges over the Hooghly are illuminated. Alternatively, you can take one of the weekend evening cruises from New Babughat to Belur Math and Dakshineswar and back. The ancient ghats, old houses, and temples along the river create a magical atmosphere.
You haven’t truly experienced Kolkata if you haven’t spent time by the Hooghly River, which weaves through the city's heart. To truly savour this vibrant locale, take a stroll along the ghats. Among them, Prinsep Ghat stands out as a must-visit, constructed in 1843 to honour James Prinsep, an esteemed English scholar and East India Company officer known for cracking the Brahmi script on Emperor Ashoka's stone edicts in 1837. This stunning white memorial features striking Gothic columns, elegant Palladian entrances, and graceful Ionian fluting. It even served as the enchanting backdrop for the song “Piyu Bole” in the acclaimed 2005 film *Parineeta*, featuring Saif Ali Khan and Vidya Balan. From Prinsep Ghat, you’re treated to breathtaking views: the shimmering river glimmering below, the majestic Vidyasagar Setu rising above, and the iconic Howrah Bridge gracing the horizon to your right. Don’t miss this enchanting experience!
Kolkata's iconic Park Street is a must-visit for anyone who appreciates delightful food, refreshing drinks, and captivating music. Although it may not shine as brightly as it once did in the nightlife scene, this street still holds a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be rediscovered. Once celebrated as "the street that never sleeps," Park Street was bustling with restaurants and pubs, offering a vibrant atmosphere that is truly unique. Don’t miss the chance to explore its charm and enjoy the essence of Kolkata. Check here for our guide.