Navigating Mumbai's after-dark scene

Pre-party tips and need-to-knows
Talk of the town: You need to be over 25 to buy hard liquor in Mumbai, but just 21 to enter a club. ID checks are generally lax.

Noteworthy for: Mumbai's only gay club, Voodoo, closed in 2012 due to government pressure.
Despite being a country that hasn't traditionally embraced drinking (some states, including Gujarat, are completely "dry"), Mumbai's party scene is burgeoning. Shunned by conservatives for nurturing the increasing divide between the city's haves and have-nots, this VIP scene is your oyster - if you're prepared to pay for the privilege.

* Club entrance fees are often quoted per couple in order to avoid a meat-market scenario. Single guys: this is your chance to make friends in the queue.

* Call ahead to enquire about entry fees and guest list opportunities. Foreigners sometimes receive special treatment.

* Expect to pay upwards of INR 4,000 for an average night out clubbing. Venues offering redeemable cover charges help to keep costs down.

* Dress codes are usually always smart. No sneakers.

* Nightspots traditionally close at 1.30am, but some owners have been able to extend trading hours until 3am by opening venues inside hotels.