Things to do in Powai

Here are five fun things to do in Powai.

1. Go Karting

Hakone Go Karting, Cliff Avenue, Powai.

Perched high on the hill overlooking Hiranandani Gardens lies the Hakone Go Karting track. The track, which is around half a kilometer in length, isn’t huge but it’s one of the better ones around. There is more to the track but it’s generally only opened up for tournaments. Go karting here is great for a laugh with your friends but don’t expect too much racing potential. Karts leave the starting line only two at a time, with quite a gap between the remaining ones. The brakes aren’t the best, and some karts are faster than others. Plus, frustratingly, officials can stop your kart by remote control if they think you’re being overzealous. Find out more information in this comprehensive review of Hakone go karting track or find out how to beat your friends in this definitive racing guide to the Hakone go karting track. Hakone Go Karting track is open daily from morning until night. Phone 22 2579 7373 . Check out a video of the Hakone track here.

2. Paintball

Headrush Paintball, Central Avenue, Powai.

Fancy stalking you friends in camouflage gear and shooting them with balls of paint? Headrush Paintball is the place! Opened in mid 2009, it’s located at the Hakone complex on Central Avenue in Hiranandani Gardens. Impressively, it has the largest total area, of 10,000 feet, in Mumbai. The arena theme is Urban War, with additions such as waist high stone walls, ground elevations, vantage sniper points, and dry hay flooring. The cost depends on group size and the number of shots that you want. It ranges from 250 per person for 25 paintballs, up to 600 rupees per person for 100 paintballs. Phone 1800-120-9091 OR visit the Headrush website for more information.

3. Zorbing

Zorbing, Hakone Complex, Central Avenue, Powai.

If the idea of rolling around in a massive transparent plastic ball appeals to you, you might want to try zorbing. The zorbing experience at the Hakone complex in Hiranandani Gardens is a lot less thrilling than how it was originally conceived in New Zealand, but it’s still an unusual experience! In New Zealand it’s done rolling down hills in the countryside. At Hakone it’s done rolling down the gentle 50 meter slope at the entertainment complex’s entrance. So, don’t be alarmed if you see a giant ball rolling your way! Two people can be in the ball at a time, at a cost of 100 rupees per person. Phone 9819177907, 9096554899 or visit their website for more information.

4. Ten Pin Bowling

Ten Pin Bowling at R-City Mall, Powai.

There’s a ten pin bowling alley at the Jammin Entertainment Centre, located on the third floor of R-City Mall, 5 minutes away in neighbouring Ghatkopar. It’s only got four lanes. However, it’s fully computerized and has automated loading of the pins. For more information check out theJammin Entertainment website. Hakone in Hiranandani Gardens used to have a bowling alley as well, but it’s now closed.

5. Mini Golf

Mini Golf, Hakone Complex, Central Avenue, Powai.

You don’t need to be an expert golfer to play mini golf, which is another popular family activity. You’ll find a 11 hole outdoor mini golf course at the Hakone complex. It’s got different challenges and obstacles to test your skill level. Visit the Hakone website for more information.

Places to explore Mansoon

Early June marks the start of the monsoon season in Mumbai, and after two months of summer heat and humidity, it's a refreshing and welcome change. The monsoon in Mumbai usually arrives around June 5-10 each year. For a memorable time, experience it along the water's edge at these top six places.

1. Marine Drive

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Affectionately referred to as The Queen's Necklace because of its row of sparkling lights, the three kilometer Marine Drive is the premier destination for experiencing the monsoon in south Mumbai. Join the crowd strolling along the promenade, or plonk yourself down and stare out into the Arabian Sea. If you're there during high tide be prepared to be sprayed from the waves that energetically rise up and onto the road. Feel like enjoying the monsoon with a cocktail? Head to rooftop barDome at the Intercontinental hotel.

• How to get there: Marine Drive links Nariman Point to Malabar Hill. If you're taking the Mumbai local train, get off at Marines Lines or Churchgate.

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2. Gateway of India

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The most notable of the attractions in Mumbai, the Gateway of India also gets some feisty waves during high tide. Dine on monsoon snacks from the street vendors. Otherwise, if you have cash to spash, the view across the bay from Souk at the Taj Palace hotel will mesmerize you. Alternatively, if you're on a budget, casual rooftop bar Bayview is the place to be!

• How to get there: Gateway of India is on the waterfront in the Colaba tourist district, opposite the Taj Palace hotel in south Mumbai.

3. Haji Ali

Sharell Cook

Haji Ali, both a mosque and a tomb built in 1431, sits right out in the ocean but is connected to land by a narrow pathway. The pathway becomes completely submerged during high tide, giving the impression that it's floating on the water. During low tide, it's possible to walk along the path to Haji Ali. With the waves lapping at your legs, it's an exhilarating experience.

• How to get there: Haji Ali is in central Mumbai, just off the coast of Worli. Take the Mumbai local train to Mahalaxmi railway station.

4. Worli Seaface

Sharell Cook.

If you can't make it to Marine Drive in south Mumbai, Worli Seaface in central Mumbai is the next best thing. It's also famous for its ferocious waves at high tide during the monsoon, and there's a promenade that you can walk or sit along too.

• How to get there: The best options on the Mumbai local train are Elphinston Road or Lower Parel on the Western Line, and Parel or Currey Road on the Central Line. Or, if you're coming from the suburbs, take a drive over the Bandra-Worli Sealink.

5. Juhu Beach

Sharell Cook

Over in the plush Mumbai suburbs, visit the snack stalls at Juhu beach and sample some fresh pav bhaji prepared in front of you while you wait. Many of the top Juhu hotels offer discounted Monsoon getaway packages.

• How to get there: The nearest railway stations are Santacruz, Andheri and Vile Parle.

6. Bandra Bandstand

www.flickr.com userAnuradha Sengupta

In the hip suburb of Bandra, the revamped Bandstand Promenade extends for around a kilometer from the rocky outcrop where the Taj Land's End hotel is situated. With the Arabian Sea on one side, and homes of the rich and famous on the other side, it's an evocative place for monsoon dreaming. While you're there, check out the "Walk of Stars", featuring the hand prints of famous Bollywood actors and actresses.

• How to get there: The Mumbai local train stops in Bandra West. From there, take Hill Road.

Night Life in Mumbai

One of the great things about traveling is being able to check out the different types of nightlife that other countries have. India's nightlife is diverse and growing. Tucked away, you’ll find everything from intimate bars and pubs, to multi-level nightclubs. Those interested in something more traditional will find no shortage of cultural performances either. However, you do need to know where to look.

Curfews and Legal Drinking Age

The age for the legal consumption of alcohol varies across the different states in India. In Delhi, it remains at 25 years, despite ongoing discussions about lowering it. India's party state of Goa has the lowest legal drinking age of 18 years, along with Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka. Elsewhere it's generally 21 years. However, venues aren't usually strict about enforcing these limits. Gujurat is known as a "dry state", where alcohol is illegal without a permit.

In most cities in India, nightlife is early to start and early to end because of the curfews in place. WhileMumbai may have the biggest selection of party places in the country, come 1.30 a.m. they’re all starting to close for the night. With a few exceptions, the scene is similar in Delhi and even worse in Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad which have 11-11.30 p.m. curfews. Even in Goa, most places are forced to close by 10 p.m. due to noise restrictions. Many venues have found that the solution to the curfews is to open during the day, or early evening. A ban on dancing was introduced in Bangalore in 2008, but it was finally removed in late 2011, after a series of protests.

Surprisingly, the nightlife in Kolkata offers the most for late night party people. There’s no curfew in place like the other cities, enabling bars and clubs to stay open until the wee hours of the morning. This is quite unexpected in a city once known for its wide-spread poverty. (Note: a 2 a.m. nightlife curfew has now been introduced in Kolkata).

Pubs, Bars and Clubs

As drinking traditionally isn’t part of India’s culture, the country's bars tend to be divided into two categories –- cheap, seedy local bars frequented by India’s male population, and classier venues catering to the progressive middle and upper class crowd. The latter can only be found in major cities.

An interesting term used in India is that of the “resto-pub” or “resto-bar”. These are restaurants that double as places where you can drink, and sometimes dance later in the night, as many restaurants don’t serve alcohol in India. A elegant example of a resto-bar is Escobar, in Mumbai’s hip suburb of Bandra.

Mumbai has become very cosmopolitan in recent years and is constantly serving up an array of trendy new bars in and around Bandra, and as well as in south Mumbai and the tourist area of Colaba. Goa is also renowned for its plethora of bars and clubs. In addition, it’s the only state in India to have casinos.

Large clubs that are exempt from the curfews are usually only found in 5-star international hotel complexes, and sometimes in shopping malls. Due to their prohibitive cover charges (sometimes as high as 3,000 rupees or $70 per couple) and cost of drinks, only the richest Indians can afford to party at these places. The facilities are world class and if it wasn’t for the music interspersed with the latest Bollywood tracks, prompting a frenzied display of dancing from the crowd, you could easily forget you were in India.

Mumbai is the place to come for busy traveler’s hangouts offering a lively atmosphere and cheap beer. The live music venues in Mumbai are also excellent. Bangalore, with its large blend of expatriates, has a booming pub culture with plenty of live gigs. In addition, some great traditional and rock bands can be found playing in Goa and Delhi (try Blue Frog for live music there).

Outdoor Parties

The hedonistic, hippie state of Goa has developed a reputation for its outdoor psychedelic trance parties, and they’re still in existence to some extent despite tough regulation. The scene has become very underground and impromptu, with parties taking place in remote locations around Anjuna, Vagator, Arambol, Morjim, and Palolem.

Other popular locations for outdoor psychedelic trance parties are around Manali and Kasol in the state of Himachal Pradesh in northern India, and Guwahati in Assam, in north east India.

Police presence is an ongoing threat, and many parties are shut down if the required bribe money hasn’t been appropriately paid.

Cultural Performances

From its impoverished background, Kolkata (Calcutta) has grown into the cultural capital of India. It’s got much to offer those interested in live dance, drama, and music. Daily evening performances are held at the Rabindra Sadan Cultural Center.

In Mumbai, those interested in cultural performances should head to the National Center for Performing Arts at the tip of Nariman Point. Delhi, as well as the cities of Jaipur and Udaipur in Rajasthan, also have interesting cultural programs.

Live Music Venues in Mumbai

sten to a live band than a DJ. Visit any of these popular Mumbai live music venues and you won’t be disappointed.

1. Blue Frog

Sharell Cook

The Blue Frog is without a doubt the most happening live music venue in Mumbai, and understandably so. Its eight partners, some of whom are talented musicians, are extremely dedicated to the industry. They've put a lot of effort into creating a unique and versatile venue -- a lavishly decorated 6,000 square foot warehouse that plays host to all genres from jazz to electronic. Blue Frog also serves up sumptuous food and drinks from a global menu.

• Where: Mathuradas Mills Compound, NM Joshi Marg, Lower Parel. Ph: 40332300.
• When: Tuesday to Sunday.
• Time: Open from 6.30 p.m. to 1.30 a.m. Live acts from 10.30 p.m.Sunday brunch from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
• Entry Fee: 300 rupees after 9 p.m. 500 rupees on Friday & Saturday.

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2. Not Just Jazz By The Bay

This restaurant/bar has a wonderful waterfront location and an intriguing set of steps that are made to resemble a piano. As its name suggests, the genre of music at this place is not just limited to jazz. Bands also play blues, rock, and sometimes even county and western. Although this is a great place to hear live music, better food can be found at the pizzeria next door.

• Where: Soona Mahal, Opposite Hotel Ambassador, 143, Marine Drive, Churchgate. Ph: 22851876.
• When: Four night a week from Wednesday to Saturday. There’s karaoke on the other nights.
• Time: Open from 6 p.m. to 1.30 a.m.
• Entry Fee: 300 rupees after 10pm.

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3. National Centre for Performing Arts

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If you want to hear traditional Indian music, Mumbai's National Centre for Performing Arts is the place to go. The NCPA features a wide spectrum of leading musicians, such as Kishori Amonkar, Zakir Hussain, Shivkumar Sharma, Ajoy Chakrabarty and Hariprasad Chaurasia, who perform there regularly.

• Where: National Centre for Performing Arts, Nariman Point, Mumbai. Phone: (22) 6622 3737.
• When: A detailed event calendar is available from the NCPA website.
• Time: Varied, but shows usually commence early evening around 6.30 p.m.
• Entry Fee: 100-300 rupees, depending on seating.

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4. Hard Rock Cafe

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The Hard Rock Cafe chain found its way to Mumbai in late 2006, and anyone needing a good dose of American food and culture should come here. As would be expected at a Hard Rock Cafe the menu is packed with tasty burgers, fries, steak, salads, and indulgent deserts. The two level venue provides a spacious reprieve in crowded Mumbai, with two stages that serve up a variety of live rock performances.

• Where: Bombay Dyeing Mill Compound, Pandurang Budhkar Marg (opposite Kamala City Mills Studio), Worli. Ph: 24382888.
• When: Tuesday (alternative rock) and Thursday (classic rock).
• Time: Open Monday to Sunday from 12.30 p.m. to 1.30 a.m.
• Entry Fee: Around 200 rupees on live band nights, although this varies according to who’s performing.

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5. Firangi Paani

Firangi Paani

Firangi Paani, meaning foreign water, is an English style pub. Leather upholstered chairs, dark polished wood, etched glass and mirrors, all give it a cozy and old world charm. The live music is rock, in varied styles. Firangi Paani is well regarded for actively promoting live bands, especially in the metal scene.

• Where: Fun Republic, Level 3, Link Road, Andheri West, Mumbai (opposite Laxmi Industrial Estate). Ph: (22) 26744144.
• When: Every Thursday.
• Time: Open from noon for meals. Live acts from around 9 p.m. until 1 a.m.
• Entry Fee: 250 rupees.

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Top Mumbai Hangouts

Mumbai has some great restaurants and pubs that offer cheap beer, a lively atmosphere, and somewhere to catch up with other travelers. Check out these popular Mumbai hangouts.

1. Cafe Mondegar

Sharell Cook

Music is the motto at Cafe Mondegar, and it pumps from the jukebox throughout the day and night. Retro rock is the usual flavor, although jazz and pop are also on offer. The continental food served provides a welcome alternative to the usual Indian fare, and the breakfasts are especially popular. Beer and wine are the only alcoholic beverages available, but the wine, starting at 90 rupees ($2) a glass, is some of the cheapest in Mumbai. It's always busy here but the friendly, smiling staff make sure everyone's well looked after.

• Features: Interesting artwork and a jukebox loaded with music.
• Address: Corner of Colaba Causeway, next to the Regal Cinema, Colaba. Ph: (022)2202-0591.
• Opening Hours: Early morning until midnight.

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2. Leopold's Cafe

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Leopold's has to be one of Mumbai's most famous cafes, and it's gained further notoriety since featuring in Gregory David Robert's account of his time in Mumbai, in the epic Shantaram. Leopold's has now moved on from its checkered past to find a prominent position for itself on every traveler's must-visit list. It's packed with foreigners hoping to relive the Shantaram legend over huge three liter (six pint) pitchers of beer. The food is diverse (Indian, Chinese, and Continental), and the servings are large and fresh. You'll also find a surprisingly good selection of wine.

• Features: Dimly light upstairs area with DJ playing assorted tunes into the night.
• Address: Colaba Causeway, Colaba. Ph: (022)2202-0131.
• Opening Hours: Early morning until midnight.

3. Sports Bar Express

As is to be expected from its name, the Sports Bar Express is a haven for sports lovers. It’s an unpretentious place that’s designed to be an interactive sports tavern. Numerous games are on offer, and there’s also comfortable red couches where you can simply relax and watch the sports that are showing on the big screen TVs. The DJ usually plays hard rock.

• Features: Large plasma screen TVs, pool table, basketball hoop, dart boards, and punching bag.
• Address: Shaheed Bhagat Singh Road (Regal Cinema Building), Ground Floor, Colaba. Ph: (022)6639-6681.
• Opening Hours: Midday until 1.30 a.m.

4. Alps Restaurant & Beer Bar

Sharell Cook

The Alps Restaurant & Beer Bar is a small, slightly seedy, simply decorated place that has laminated tables, hanging lamps, and pictures of Hollywood stars gracing its walls. Head there to chill out over the cheapest pitchers of beer you'll find in Mumbai. Sensational sizzlers, and fish & chips are also served there.

• Features: Rock music, and sports on TV.
• Address: Roosevelt House, Nowroji Furdunji Road, Colaba (in the lane next to Cafe Mondegar, behind the Taj Hotel). Ph: (022)2204-5042.
• Opening Hours: 11 a.m. until 11.30 p.m

5. Bayview

Sharell Cook

Formerly called the Starlit Cafe, Bayview is tucked away on the rooftop of the mediocre Hotel Harbour View and the Strand Hotel. It's simply decorated with terracotta tiles and mosaic walls, however the sea breeze and expansive views more than make up for it. A large bottle of beer will set you back 150 rupees, and there's tasty Indian and Chinese food on offer to accompany it. Apart from sunset, Bayview is a particularly good place to hang out during the monsoon rains.

• Features: Incredible views over the Gateway of India monument and Mumbai harbor.
• Address: Opposite the Radio Club, 25P Ramchandani Marg, Colaba. Ph: (022)2282-1089.
• Opening Hours: 8 a.m. until 1.30 a.m.

6. Toto's Garage

Toto’s is the closest thing you’ll find to a western pub. It’s very popular and seats are hard to come by. However, it’s usually filled with more locals than foreigners as it’s located away from the main tourist area, albeit in Mumbai’s most happening suburb of Bandra. Cheap alcohol, including an appealing selection of cocktails as well as beer, interesting decor, and rock music make this place a winner.

• Features: Decorated in a garage theme, complete with overall clad bar staff and assorted car parts throughout. 
• Address: 30, Lourdes Haven Pali Junction (off Pali Market, down a side street), Bandra West. Ph: (022)2600-5494.
• Opening Hours: 6 p.m. to midnight.