Goa is not the party place it used to be, the change in fortunes a consequence of both the shifting demographics and the 10pm loudspeaker ban that came into force around the millennium.
Where once outdoor raves held sway, indoor clubs are now de rigueur, and the domestic, beer guzzling crowd have pushed out the more herbally/psychedelically inclined foreign ‘freaks’.
If the former is what you’re after, head to Baga, Calangute, Candolim and, increasingly, parts of Anjuna, where clubs like SinQ and Tito’s cater to the raucous Commercial Dance and Bollywood loving crowds, and Ladies Nights, VIP booths and pool decks are a common sight.
If you want your partying a little more old-school, and more outdoors, the following places are recommended:
Chronicle – Vagator
In a great, terraced location on the cliff-side overlooking the ocean and Little Vagator beach, Chronicle is a multi-level dance venue offering Deep House, Tech and Progressive Trance, along with day parties, and good food and drinks from their restaurant and bar.
+919167239345, +918411020762
Teso Waterfront – Siolim
A laid-back but stylish resort that doubles up as a sunset chill-out/party place, with spectacular views of the Siolim bay. The cool clientele is a mixture of moneyed urban types and the more hippyish long-term foreign crowd, with a bit of hipster thrown in. The Sunday evening Soma Project takeover is a highlight.
+91 832-2270091 /92 / 96/
Hilltop – Vagator
Old is (sometimes) gold. Hilltop, along with Nine Bar, is where Goa used to really party. Its heyday is over, but Christmas and New Year parties still get some of the glory back.
+919604772788
Leopard Valley – Agonda
South Goa’s big party place, Leopard Valley is a secluded spot just outside Agonda that offers a vast space for EDM.
+919405507115 / http://leopardvalley.com/
Shiva Valley/Curlies – South Anjuna
A small beach shack next to the famous Curlies, which turns into a proper old-school Trance rave on Tuesdays, complete with Chai-Mamas who set out their stalls on the sand. Parties frequently go on past midnight. Not for the faint-hearted.
Katzensuppe
Starting at 10pm and running to the early hours, this indoor club with outdoor hangout and restaurant is one of Goa’s best nightspots, attracting quality DJs and a smart crowd. The extensive cocktail list runs from classic to interesting (Maple Whisky Sour; Pineapple & Sage Margarita), and the drinks are all professionally made. Open Wed-Sun, 22:00 onwards. 400-500 rupees per cocktail.
+91 84119 32015 / Vagator Beach Road / http://www.katzensuppe.com/