Information for attendees
Kasa Kai!
We will be hosting IndiaHCI 2024 at the IDC School of Design, IIT Bombay, situated in the lush and serene Powai campus. This prestigious institution is located in the heart of the city, providing easy access to the diverse and dynamic aspects of Mumbai life. Just a short drive away from key landmarks like the iconic Gateway of India, the bustling Colaba Causeway, and the serene Marine Drive, attendees will find themselves immersed in Mumbai's rich history and contemporary charm.
Traveling to Mumbai
✈️ If you are coming by Air:
Mumbai has two airports - Terminal 1, approximately 12 kms from IIT Bombay, and Terminal 2, about 8 kms from IIT Bombay, Powai. Prepaid taxis, regular taxis, app-based cabs, and auto-rickshaws are available at both airports to reach IDC School of Design, IIT Bombay. The fare for a prepaid taxi at the airport ranges from INR 400-700. A Uber or Ola App based cab might cost you around the same but will mostly be cheaper than the prepaid taxi.
🚄If you are coming by Indian Railways:
Mumbai has two outstation railway lines in the city one for western railways and the other central railways. LTT ( Lokmanya Tilak Terminus) being the nearest railway station, approximately 12 kms on the Central Line whereas Mumbai Central Terminus, approximately 30 kms on Western Line. Most Outstation trains terminate at CSMT on the Central Line. It is advised to take a train terminating at CSMT or LTT for convenience. To reach campus you can take the suburban local train or a cab.
Traveling to IDC School of Design
🚉If you are coming by Mumbai Suburban Local Train:
From CSMT Station/Dadar/Kurla (Central Railway):
Take a slow local train on the Central Railway line to Thane/Kalyan.
Get down at Vikhroli (west) or Kanjur Marg (west) station.
Take an auto-rickshaw to IIT Powai. Enter the campus from the IIT Market gate (the first gate you come across), drive straight in to reach IDC.
From Mumbai Central/Churchgate/Bandra (Western Railway):
Take a fast or slow local train on the Western Railway line to Andheri/Borivali/Virar.
Get down at Dadar, cross to the Central Railway line.
Take a slow local train on the Central line to Thane/Kalyan.
Get down at Vikhroli (west) or Kanjur Marg (west).
Take an auto-rickshaw to IIT Powai (Should Cost around 40-50 INR). Enter the campus from the IIT Market gate (the first gate you come across), drive straight in to reach IDC.
🚉If you are coming by Mumbai Metro:
In Mumbai Metro Rail (Versova-Andheri-Ghatkopar), SakiNaka is the closest station to Powai. Taking an auto from there to IIT Bombay Campus would cost about 100-150 INR.
Milestones you will find on your way to IDC School of Design, IIT Bombay:
LBS Road → JVLR → Powai Lake → Main Gate (No. 2) or IIT Market gate → IDC School of Design
Getting around in Mumbai
Mumbai Suburban Local Train: Download the M-Indicator App to know the Time-Table for Mumbai Metro and Monorail
The Iconic Kali Peeli Taxis
Autos: You can hail Metered Autos that have a base fair of 23 INR right about anywhere North of Bandra in Mumbai.
On Demand Taxi Services: Uber, Ola and InDrive are the major App Based Taxi Service that operate throughout the MMR (Mumbai Metropolitan Region)
Visa
If you are traveling to Mumbai from abroad please check the VISA advisory that MEA India has provided for your country to attend conferences in India. If you need to apply for a visa and require an invitation letter, please email -Pallavi Rao (pallavi.rao@iitb.ac.in)
Mumbai and things to do
Known as the "City of Dreams," Mumbai offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, making it a vibrant metropolis brimming with life. As you attend the conference, be sure to delve into the city's cultural treasures. The majestic Gateway of India stands as a symbol of Mumbai's colonial past, while the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus showcases stunning Victorian Gothic architecture. Take a stroll along Marine Drive to experience the city's bustling coastline, and indulge in the local cuisine by savoring street foods like vada pav and pav bhaji. Mumbai's dynamic energy is also evident in its contemporary marvels, with the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and the upscale neighborhoods of Bandra and Juhu reflecting its cosmopolitan charm. For a serene escape, visit the Sanjay Gandhi National Park or the historic Elephanta Caves. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culinary explorer, or someone who thrives in an urban setting, Mumbai promises an unforgettable experience.
Arts and Culture
Mumbai is India's cultural capital, home to national performing arts companies like the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA) and Prithvi Theatre. The city boasts numerous galleries and museums, including the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya (CSMVS) and the Dr. Bhau Daji Lad Museum. Wander through Kala Ghoda to discover street art and follow the sculpture walks along the city's waterfronts. The city is also home to Mani Bhavan, Gandhi's residence in Mumbai, and the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, formerly named Prince of Wales Museum of Western India You can visit the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and take a guided tour of the Bombay High Court.
Food and Drink
Mumbai caters to all tastes. Casual dining is a specialty, with a wide range of restaurants serving top cuisine in a laid-back yet professional setting. Experience the city's vibrant café culture and booming craft beer scene. Mumbai’s nightlife is centered around Bandra and Andheri. Discover stylish cocktail bars hidden in the bylanes and vibrant pubs and clubs. The entertainment district of Bandra is lined with dance clubs, pubs, and bars, while live music is best found in Andheri.
If you have any questions about the venue, accommodation, or how to get to IDC, IIT Bombay, feel free to reach out to our Logistics and Hospitality Chairs, Saikat Biswas (saikatbsws5@gmail.com) or Zoha Hamid (hamidzoha20@gmail.com) or Tanmay Kuwalekar (tanmayiitbidc@gmail.com).