Pocket-friendly dating ideas in Dhaka

Forget the fancy restaurants and expensive outings; love doesn't need a hefty price tag. In Dhaka, a city of rich history and vibrant culture, romance can blossom amidst parks, museums, and even a simple stroll along Buriganga. So, ditch the notion that dating requires breaking the bank and explore these pocket-friendly havens for a truly memorable experience with your loved one.

Parks and lakes

Dhaka boasts several parks that offer a tranquil escape from the city's hustle. Ramna Park is a classic choice with its sprawling lawns, shaded walkways, and serene lake. Pack a picnic basket, spread a sheet under a mango tree, and let the conversation flow. Ramna Park is a place for couples who love to take photographs. 

Capturing candid moments with nature as a backdrop and creating memories that cost nothing but a beloved presence. 

Melted music with the nature of Dhanmondi Lake and the Rabindra Sarabar

Free music, surrounded by nature, a lake, and a plate of fuchka or hot patties can fill the stomach; we are talking about the Dhanmondi Lake and Rabindra Sarabar. 

The Rabindra Sarabar can be a perfect place for the dates. This iconic place has witnessed countless love stories unfold under its open sky. 

A rose in the hands of your beloved, seeing each other's eyes, hand in hand, at a distance where love and consent both rests in between, a song in the background of Kabir Suman' Khodar kasam jaan aami bhalobeshechi tomay' meaning 'Swearing god my beloved, I love you' can say more what an unexpressive lover cannot say to their beloved. 

Books and brews: Cosy cafes and bookshops

For bookworms and coffee lovers, Dhaka's vibrant cafe scene provides the perfect setting for a unique date. So, in the corner of a cosy bookshop like Pathshala or Bookworm, browsing through one's favourite genres and sharing recommendations with the partner can make a date worth spending. 

One might discuss the books they've read, discuss fictional characters, and discover new literary worlds together, like in the film 'Before Sunrise.' 

Many cafes also offer delicious coffee and snacks, making it a complete experience for couples. However, they are optional. For a pocket-friendly date, the smell of freshly bonded books and the fragrance of one's beloved can fill both the mind and the soul. 

River reveries

For a truly unique experience, a boat ride on the Buriganga can also be pocket-friendly. It will take 200 to 250 taka at the Farashganj Ghat for a boat ride for an hour. 

The traditional wooden boats, soaking in the sights and sounds of the river city, will be echoed with the whistles of launches. The coming and goings of the launches will create waves that might be a fearful experience for the couple. However, the boatman can ensure the security of not sinking in the river.

When the sun sets, it is dark; only the launches' red, green, and yellow lights will cast colours in the trembling river, like a painting of Van Gogh where sharing stories and dreams are portrayed. As the wind carries laughs, the gentle rocking of the boat might lull you into a state of tranquillity. 

If the partner is scared about the water, stroll along the Farashganj bridge, watching the sun paint the sky with vibrant hues. This could be a wholesome experience. 

Museums and heritage walks

Dhaka's museums offer a treasure trove of knowledge and conversation starters for couples who enjoy intellectual stimulation. Enriched with the history of this land at the National Museum or into the world of art at the Shilpakala Academy, dating can go deep and cheerful. 

Discussing the exhibits, sharing interpretations, and learning something new about each other are what these places can offer to a relationship. 

Stepping outside the museums and embarking on a heritage walk through the narrow lanes of Old Dhaka could be surprisingly amazing. Yes, it might be tiring and hectic; however, if the lovers want, then exploring centuries-old mosques, temples, busy chowks, and hidden gems can be a memory to cherish for the rest of their lives.  

Uncovering the city's intriguing stories, together with a cup of steaming tea and Bakarkhani, can be a perfect date to fuel a historical adventure. Also, Bakorkhani is symbolic of love as its name is derived from the love story of Aga Baker and Khani Begum. 

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