Table of Contents
Introduction
Delhi is the sparkling heart of India, and it wakes up once it gets dark. While the sun disappears behind historic monuments and crazy markets, a different energy takes over the capital, turning it into a playground of night owls and party enthusiasts. From stylish lounges to pulsating dance clubs, Delhi has it all—for every taste and preference.
Insider’s guide to the best Delhi places for nightlife, including all the essential information and insider tips on local and visitor interest in unforgettable nocturnal adventures- from dancing the night away and watching live bands to unwinding with a well-crafted cocktail.
Kitty Su – The Lalit, Connaught Place
Kitty Su is one of the beacons of Delhi’s nightlife, continuously standing tall in the most visited and influential nightclubs in Connaught Place. With a fierce focus on putting only electronic dance music and avant-garde performances, this venue carved out its niche within its heartbeat and pulse.
Ambiance and Features
The club’s interior is a masterpiece of modern design, featuring state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems that create an immersive party experience. Kitty Su is divided into several distinct areas, each offering a unique atmosphere:
- The main dance floor: The epicentre of energy, where world-famous DJs spin the latest tracks.
- The Champagne Lounge: A more relaxed space for those who prefer to sip bubbly and engage in conversation.
- The Salon: A mini-club within the club, offering a more intimate setting for private parties or VIP experiences.
- The List: An exclusive VIP section for those seeking a more premium experience.
Music and Events
Kitty Su is renowned for its cutting-edge music programming, featuring a mix of international DJs and local talent. The club has hosted some of the biggest names in electronic music, cementing its status as a premier destination for EDM enthusiasts.
Practical Information
- Working Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 PM – 1 AM or later (depending on the event and crowd)
- Price: Approximately INR 6,000 for two, including alcohol
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired bar snacks and appetizers
- Dress Code: Smart casual; no shorts or flip-flops
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Kitty Su’s social media pages for announcements about special events and guest DJs.
Privee – Shangri-La Eros New Delhi
Privee has established itself as a favourite among Delhi’s party crowd. It is known for drawing enthusiastic crowds even on typically quieter nights like Sundays. This upscale nightclub offers a perfect blend of luxurious ambiance and high-energy partying.
Ambiance and Features
Privee boasts a spacious layout with a large central dance floor and comfortable seating areas. The club’s design incorporates elements of modern luxury, with plush furnishings and atmospheric lighting that creates a sophisticated yet vibrant environment.
Music and Events
While Privee is versatile in its music offerings, it has gained particular fame for its hip-hop nights, especially on weekends. The club hosts themed parties and special events, often featuring international and local DJs.
Unique Offerings
- Ladies Night: Thursdays at Privee are dedicated to the ladies, with complimentary drinks offered all night long.
- Sunday Socials: Breaking the norm of quiet Sundays, Privee’s Sunday nights are among the most popular in Delhi.
Practical Information
- Working Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 11 PM – 5 AM
- Price: Approximately INR 6,000 for two, including alcohol
- Cuisine: A diverse menu featuring Continental, Chinese, and North Indian dishes
- Dress Code: Smart casual to dressy; no sports attire
Pro Tip: For the best experience, arrive before midnight to avoid long queues, especially on weekends.
Story Club and Lounge – The Westin, Gurgaon
Story Club and Lounge offers a more refined nightlife experience, blending a high-end lounge’s sophistication with a nightclub’s energy. Located in the upscale Westin Hotel in Gurgaon, Story attracts a discerning crowd of professionals and socialites.
Ambiance and Features
The venue’s decor is elegant and chic, featuring a tasteful mix of modern and classic design elements. The Story boasts several distinct areas:
- Main Lounge: A spacious area with comfortable seating and a central bar.
- Dance Floor: While smaller than some dedicated nightclubs, it’s perfectly sized for the venue’s atmosphere.
- Cigar Lounge: A separate space for fans to enjoy premium cigars in a relaxed setting.
- Outdoor Terrace: Offering fresh air and stunning views of the city.
Culinarian and Mixology Excellence
The Story boasts of its culinary arts and masterfully crafted cocktails—the food menu is made with care and includes international flavours as well as home-grown ones. The bar comprises well-experienced mixologists who can prepare classic and innovative house cocktails.
Music and Entertainment
The music here at Story is more eclectic than at a pure dance club. The DJs mix everything from house and electronic to pop, and even Bollywood hits. In addition, they sometimes have live music acts and nights devoted to themes.
Practical Information
- Working Hours: Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, 6 PM – 4 AM
- Price: Approximately INR 4,500 for two, including alcohol
- Cuisine: North Indian and Italian specialties
- Dress Code: Smart casual to formal; dress to impress
Pro Tip: Make a reservation in advance, especially for the cigar lounge or if you plan to dine before dancing.
Key – Hotel Samrat, Chanakyapuri
Despite being a relatively new addition to Delhi’s nightlife scene, Key has quickly established itself as a destination for those seeking a blend of luxury and high-energy partying. Located in the diplomatic enclave of Chanakyapuri, Key attracts a mix of locals, expats, and tourists.
Ambiance and Features
Key’s interior is a visual feast, characterized by its opulent red velvet decor, exquisite chandeliers, and state-of-the-art lighting system. The spacious dance floor is the centerpiece, with comfortable seating areas and VIP sections.
Music and Entertainment
The club is known for its diverse music policy, with different nights dedicated to various genres, including EDM, hip-hop, Bollywood, and commercial hits. Key regularly hosts international and local DJs, ensuring a fresh and exciting lineup.
Signature Cocktails
One of Key’s main attractions is its innovative cocktail menu. The “Herbal Bomb” has become particularly famous among regulars and is a must-try for first-time visitors.
Practical Information
- Working Hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 10 PM – 4 AM or later
- Price: Approximately INR 5,000 for two, including alcohol
- Cuisine: A mix of Continental and North Indian dishes
- Dress Code: Smart casual to dressy; no sportswear or flip-flops
Pro Tip: Arrive early on weekends to secure a good spot, as the venue can get crowded quickly.
SoHo Delhi – The Ashok, Chanakyapuri
Since its inception, SoHo has significantly impacted Delhi’s nightclub scene, quickly becoming known for its high-profile events and ability to attract international artists. Located in the iconic Ashok Hotel, SoHo offers a world-class clubbing experience.
Ambiance and Features
SoHo’s design is sleek and modern, with an expansive layout that includes:
- A massive central dance floor
- Multiple bar areas to ensure quick service
- VIP sections for those seeking a more exclusive experience
- State-of-the-art sound and lighting systems
Music and Events
SoHo is renowned for its non-stop music and energetic atmosphere. The club has hosted numerous international artists and DJs, cementing its reputation as a premier electronic and pop music venue. Themed nights and special events are regular occurrences, keeping the experience fresh for regulars.
Crowd and Atmosphere
SoHo attracts a young, energetic crowd known for getting extremely busy, especially on weekends. The atmosphere is lively and electric, perfect for those looking to dance the night away.
Practical Information
- Working Hours: Wednesday to Sunday, 10 PM – 1:30 AM or later
- Price: Approximately INR 6,000 for two, including alcohol
- Cuisine: Continental and Asian fusion bar bites
- Dress Code: Smart casual to dressy; no shorts or flip-flops
Pro Tip: Follow SoHo’s social media accounts to stay informed about upcoming events and special performances.
Summer House Cafe – Hauz Khas
A great mix of casual dining, live music, and late-night partying makes Summer House Cafe a unique place in Delhi’s nightlife. Summing up everything that’s happening around Hauz Khas Village, it is the place to be for young professionals and creative types.
Ambiance and Features
It has a bohemian, laid-back ambiance indoors and outdoors, with seating scattered about. The decor varies from eclectic, rustic elements to modern elements, making the place comfortable and welcoming.
Music and Entertainment
Live music and DJ sets are the most popular performances at Summer House Cafe. Here, you can find all types of artists, from those performing in local cafes for the first time to internationally recognized ones. The music is diverse, with various genres, from rock to indie, electronic, and more.
Food and Drinks
Unlike most clubs, Summer House Cafe emphasizes food. The menu is diverse, with dinner entrées and late-night morsels from around the globe. The bar stands out with its creative cocktail list and extensive beer offerings.
Happy Hour
Its main attractions are the extended happy hour from 12 PM to 9 PM every day, which is fantastic value for early risers and those wanting to start their night out early.
Practical Information
- Working Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 1 AM
- Price: Approximately INR 2,500 for two, including alcohol
- Cuisine: North Indian, Continental, Chinese
- Dress Code: Casual to smart casual; a more relaxed dress code compared to upscale clubs
Pro Tip: Check their event calendar for upcoming live performances and plan your visit accordingly.
YOUnion – Qutab Institutional Area
YOUnion has quickly become a hotspot in Delhi’s nightlife scene. It offers a unique blend of high-energy partying and casual dining. Its tagline, “a walk to the wild side,” perfectly encapsulates the experience it offers visitors.
Ambiance and Features
YOUnion’s design is modern and eclectic, with various seating areas catering to different moods:
- A high-energy indoor bar area
- A more relaxed outdoor seating section
- Private booths for groups
The decor features quirky elements and neon signs, creating a playful and Instagram-worthy environment.
Unique Selling Point: 300 Shots Menu
What sets YOUnion apart is its incredible selection of 300 unique shots. This extensive menu is a significant draw for patrons looking to experiment with new flavors or challenge their friends to try something adventurous.
Food and Music
While drinks are a significant focus, YOUnion doesn’t skimp on its food offerings. The menu has comfort food options that pair well with drinks and late-night cravings. Music-wise, YOUnion features a mix of commercial hits, EDM, and Bollywood, catering to a wide range of tastes.
Practical Information
- Working Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 2 AM
- Price Range: Approximately INR 2,500 for two, including alcohol
- Cuisine: Chinese, European, Continental, North Indian
- Dress Code: Smart casual; a balance between comfort and style
Pro Tip: Start with their famous shot menu, but pace yourself – with 300 options, it’s easy to get carried away!
Bohca – Qutub Residency Hotel, Adchini
Bohca has made its specialty in Delhi nights because it’s the first choice for after-parties and a place for nocturnal revelry. The venue is known for staying open a little later than everyone else. It is a night owl’s favorite and the destination of the not-so-ready-to-call-it-quits party animal.
Ambiance and Features
Bohca’s interior is surprisingly fashionable and sleek. It offers large dancing floors and plenty of seating space, and perfect lighting and sound techniques combine to create a fully immersive party atmosphere.
Music and Crowd
The music at Bohca tends to be high-energy, electronic, and more commercial dance—many young, energetic people, partly locals and partly tourists.
Late-Night Appeal
Perhaps it was because it didn’t open until late, making the location a good hideout on those days when the city’s major nightclubs close before 1 a.m. Most clubs in Delhi usually close within 1 a.m., but Bohca does things differently. It often stays open pretty early into the morning, sometimes reaching 5 a.m. on busy nights.
Practical Information
- Working Hours: Daily, 12 PM – 1 AM (occasionally until 5 AM)
- Price: Approximately INR 2,500 without alcohol
- Cuisine: Asian, Italian, Middle Eastern, North Indian
- Dress Code: Smart casual; err on the side of dressing up rather than down
Pro Tip: If you’re planning to stay late, pace yourself and remember to arrange safe transportation home in advance.
Conclusion
Delhi’s nightlife is as vivacious and dynamic as the city, with Kitty Su and SoHo pulsating to thumping beats, while Summer House Cafe offers a more laid-back alternative. There is literally something for everybody; whether you’re a tourist wanting to get in on the action of the local party scene or a resident looking for a new nightlife adventure, these are all great glimpses into India’s capital’s after-dark culture.
Remember to have fun responsibly while being safe. A good and courteous night experience involves responsible drinking and the use of safety services in transport. Most importantly, embrace Delhi’s nightlife’s unique energy and hospitality.
Like any other big city, Delhi’s nightlife scene constantly changes, with new places opening up, existing ones reinventing themselves, and trends rising and falling. One always needs to check out the latest reviews and social media pages for the latest information on the hours of operation, conditions for entry, and special events.
Whether dancing until the sun rises, listening to live music, or having a drink with friends at the end of the night, Delhi has fun experiences in store and a chance to see another side of this ancient city. So put on your dancing shoes, gather your friends, and get ready to discover the exciting world of Delhi after dark!