Keep your purse strings loose if you want to have fun this New Year’s Eve.

Revellers would not have a dearth of parties where they can count the midnight down on December 31. But they would have to shell out more than they did last year for admission to such jigs.

At Maurya, patrons would be served snacks, drinks and food to their heart’s content. They would be able to choose from Indian, Oriental, Mughlai, European or American cuisines and be entertained by Russian belly dancers, DJ Tejas and singers Sapna Awasthi and Amit Sana.

But couples would have to pay Rs 6,500 as entry fee. “We have increased the price by nearly 10 per cent to meet the expenses,” said manager B.D. Singh. Last year, the entry fee was Rs 6,000.

The other popular host of New Year parties — luxury resort Ghar Aangan — has also decided to hike the entry fee. For unlimited food and drinks, and a performance by Usha Uthup, patrons would have to pay Rs 5,499. Last year, the ticket price was Rs 3,500.

Revellers are in a dilemma of sorts: they want to go out and party but are sceptical if paying large amounts for entrance is a good idea.

Kankerbagh resident Bela Agarwal said: “Last year, we were not served free drinks or food promised on the entry card. So we are a little unsure of what to do this time.”

Others have undertaken a detailed research to find the place where they would like to party and yet not go bankrupt.

“After a week-long search, my friends and I decided that the most affordable place where we can have fun is Bollywood Treat,” said IIBM student Chaitanya.

The restaurant would offer unlimited snacks and mocktails as well as groovy music. It would cost couples only Rs 2,000.

Another joint that those in search of economical fun can dig is The Disc Man — the new (and only) discotheque in town. Your partner and you can dance the night away for only Rs 3,500. There would also be enough refreshments to keep fighting fit to welcome the New Year.S

A simple party, however, will not please those who want to turn over a new leaf in the New Year. “Going to the same place for a New Year’s Eve party this year would be monotonous. So, we are looking for a new and innovative venue,” said Bailey Road resident Bulbul.

For her and others seeking innovation, the new hotel at P&M Mall — Vijaytej Clark’s Inn — is planning to host a Las Vegas-style party.

Las Vegas, also known as the entertainment capital of the world, is a resort city in the US, known for gambling, shopping and fine dining. The management of Vijaytej Clark’s Inn promises to give Patna residents a taste of the epicurean delights in their hometown.

“We would have neon lights popular in Las Vegas. DJ Rixx, one of the most popular disc jockeys of New Delhi, would perform here,” said Aabish, the organiser of the event.

Those who want to party there should hurry now. “We are charging couples Rs 3,999 till December 30,” said Aabish. “The prices would go up on December 31.”