New Year’s Eve, as well as New Year, is celebrated with great fervor by people all over the country. While some like to spend quality time with their loved ones, others prefer going all out and partying hard till the sun comes up. After all, there’s nothing quite like welcoming the brand new year with a dose of socializing, dance, drinks, and fun. For this very purpose, there are a great many New Year party destinations in India.
Celebrated across the country, each spot has its own way of ringing in the new year. Make sure you don’t miss out on some of the best bashes in India with our picks of the most popular New Year party destinations in India.
Goa
Very little needs to be said about why Goa is undoubtedly one of the best New Year party destinations in India. Goa has a reputation for hosting great parties, especially beach parties, which cannot be rivalled by any other state. Often called the Las Vegas of India for its abundance of clubs, casinos and parties, the state sees thousands of tourists pouring in from across the globe, adding to the festive spirit.
With the booze flowing freely and dance floors packed, the clubs boast of some of the best DJs from around the world, particularly during the holiday season. If the club scene is not quite what you have in mind, worry not. Head to one of the many beach parties of Goa where you have a cool breeze and cheery vibes to welcome the new year. With a warm bonfire, some beer and friends all around, there is nothing more you could ask for.
Pondicherry
Pondicherry, now known as Puducherry, is another one of the hottest New Year party destinations in India. Colonised by the French in the olden days, the city is known as the French capital of India and has a lot of French nationals who have taken up residence here. Organized by the hotels and resorts in the city, the New Year bashes here are not to be missed.
Home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the country, Pondicherry is just as famous for its lively seaside parties. Adding some upbeat music into the mix, DJs from all over the country head here to make you sway to their beats. Need more reasons to plan your trip to Pondy? Being a union territory, there are no taxes on alcohol which means you get to score booze for a steal!
Gokarna
One of the lesser known places in India which are fast gaining popularity for its exquisite beaches, Gokarna is located close to both Goa and Karnataka. So, when it comes to partying till the wee hours to usher in the new year, this town brings together the best of both places. Dishing out delicious food and drinks, there are resorts and hilltop hotels throwing grand bashes.
However, to experience some of the best New Year celebrations here, skip the clubs and resorts and make way to the expansive beaches. After all, what better way to spend New Year than by spending the night on the beaches, dancing and chilling around a bonfire with a bunch of fun folks? Along with plenty of beer to guzzle down, of course. The best part? This New Year party spot will not burn a hole in your pocket.
Mumbai
One of India’s top metropolitan cities and the country’s largest city, Mumbai’s tall buildings, buzzing lifestyle and famous beaches attract quite a crowd for New Year. Known for its wild parties, the city has enough and more options for you to choose from. While some of the clubs may charge exorbitantly for the entry, the New Year bashes come with great food, drinks, lively DJs and, of course, fellow partygoers to bond with.
And, don’t be surprised if you run into a well-known Bollywood star or two, considering it’s the heart of the Hindi film industry. Whether you’re looking for a club party, a DJ night, a poolside party or a breezy beach celebration, Mumbai has it all. However, being the peak of the holiday season, it may not be the most budget-friendly option and getting transport and hotels in the city might prove to be quite a hurdle.
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
An archipelago located off the south-eastern coast of India, the Andaman and Nicobar islands are in the Bay of Bengal. With mangroves, tropical rainforests and pristine beaches, this group of nearly 600 islands is a popular destination for tourists, especially during the holiday season. While permits are required to visit Nicobar islands and certain other areas inhabited by indigenous tribal people, there are quite a few places in Andaman for you to head to.
A perfect spot if you need a break from the din that is usually part of New Year bashes, there aren’t many clubs or pubs to party the night away in Andamans. However, the beaches here invite you to spend New Year’s Eve, watching the waves crashing on the white sands or looking up at the stars while enjoying low-key beach parties. Think bonfires, music, and booze to complete the fun factor.
Alleppey
Looking to escape the bustle of the city and celebrate New Year in peace? Look no further than Alleppey, a major city in God’s Own Country – Kerala – that is probably one of the unconventional New Year party destinations in India. This is where you can go ahead and welcome the new year on a houseboat, looking out at the stunning backwaters and listening to the ripple of the lake.
Even if you want something more fun, the city sorts you out with plenty of options. Owing to the population of Christians in the area, Christmas and New Year are celebrated with great zeal here. New Year carnivals, known for their merry vibes, are popular among the people who flock to the city. Almost every New Year, grand parties are thrown on the beaches of Alleppey. Marked by great enthusiasm and energy, these parties are frequented by regulars as well as visitors.
Whether you choose to go all out with a fun party or stick to a laidback celebration, New Year is an opportunity for you to take a welcome break from the monotony of work life. So, make the most of it, plan a trip and get going. While you’re at it, remember to book your tickets before they get sold out.
