Theory CS Winter School 2024

Supported by the Walmart Center for Tech Excellence.

Location - IISc

The workshop will be held at the Indian Institute of Science (IISC), Bangalore.

Address: IISC Campus, CV Raman Rd, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560012, India

Guest House Locations

About Bengaluru

Bengaluru Image

Bangalore, officially known as Bengaluru, is the vibrant host city for our workshop. Renowned as India’s Silicon Valley, Bangalore stands at the forefront of technological innovation and scientific research.

The city boasts a dynamic ecosystem with prestigious research institutions, such as the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), International Centre for Theoretical Sciences (ICTS), Raman Research Institute (RRI), Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). These institutions, alongside major global tech companies including Google, Microsoft, and IBM, underscore Bangalore's pivotal role in advancing science and technology. Its robust infrastructure, pleasant climate, and welcoming atmosphere make it an ideal setting for scientific discourse and collaboration.

With a burgeoning startup scene and a rich tradition of academic excellence, Bangalore offers a unique blend of opportunities and cultural experiences for the workshop participants. As we gather here, attendees will not only engage with groundbreaking scientific advancements but also experience the city’s renowned hospitality and vibrant culture.

About Indian Institute of Science Bengaluru (IISc Bengaluru)

IISc Bengaluru Image

IISc is India’s top Research University, being a 115 years old institute. It is located in the Southern Indian City of Bangalore, Karnataka. Having a huge coverage area of around 400-acres, the Indian Institute of Science Campus is a Nature’s gift to Bengaluru. (https://iisc.ac.in)

IISc was established in 1909 by a visionary public-private partnership between the industrialist Jamsetji Nusserwanji Tata, the Maharaja of Mysore, and the Government of India. IISc has a rich legacy of excellence in scientific contributions, major contributions to the nation, and for seeding several major Science & Technology institutions.

The Institute is currently ranked as India’s top academic university. The Division of EECS (Electronics, Electrical, and Computer Sciences) at IISc is a lively hub of research in EECS with 85 faculty members and about 400 PhD students.

The IISc campus is a beautifully wooded campus and home to flora and fauna of the rarest varieties.

Getting Here

Bengaluru is well connected by air, rail, and road to all major cities such as Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, and most other important metro cities and towns. The city is served by Kempegowda International Airport, which offers a wide range of international (and domestic) flights, also making it easily accessible from around the globe.

How to reach IISc

The Institute is known as "Tata Institute" to the locals and is located just past Mekhri Circle, on the way to Yeshwantpur. To reach it, take a right turn at Mekhri Circle when coming from the airport.

Transportation Options

For convenient travel, popular ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Ola, Namma Yatri, and Rapido are available. During peak hours, finding an auto may be challenging, but getting a cab should be easier. Additionally, you can find autos waiting outside major transit points, such as the railway station, ready to take you to the Institute, though the fare might be slightly higher. When using autos, it's helpful to refer to the Institute as the "Tata Institute" rather than "IISc," as it is more widely recognized by local drivers.

From the Railway Stations

The City Railway Station (a.k.a. KSR, SBC, Majestic) is about 7 kms from IISc campus. One will have to get out of the station from platform number 1 and reach the prepaid taxi stand to hire a city taxi (costs about Rs. 150). Majestic (7 kms from IISc) is the Central Bus stand in Bengaluru, which is just opposite the City Railway station. If one happens to reach Majestic, Bengaluru by bus, reach platform number 22 from where almost all buses (for instance route 276) come to the Institute. Note that you can take any bus that stops either at "Tata Institute", or one that stops at "Yeswantpur Circle". The buses will leave you near one of the campus gates, and you would have to further walk another <10 minutes to reach your guest house.

If you arrive at Yeshwantpur Station, which is approximately 2-3 kilometers from the IISc campus, the most convenient option is to take a local auto rickshaw from outside the station. The fare is typically around Rs. 100, but you can often negotiate this price given the short distance. For those traveling light, you might prefer to walk to the campus, as it is a manageable 15-20 minute stroll.

From the Airport

The institute is about 30 kilometers from Kempegowda International Airport. The BMTC Vayu Vajra AC bus service is an efficient and inexpensive mode of transport available from Bengaluru Airport and throughout the city.

One can opt for Bus route No. KIAB-10, which plies every half hour from 6 AM to 10 PM, approximately costing around Rs. 250. Multiple buses ply to Mekhri circle, and these also run throughout the day. One could also chose to get off at Mekhri Circle, and take an auto to the campus, if the aforementioned KIAB-10 is not available.

Uber, Ola, Meru Cabs, Easy Cabs, Mega Cabs, and KSTDC (Govt) cabs are the popular taxi services to commute to and from Bengaluru Airport. A detailed list can be seen here.

Tourist Attractions

Bangalore has many diverse attractions to offer beyond its professional charm. Stroll through the expansive Lalbagh Botanical Garden and Cubbon Park to enjoy lush greenery and serene environments. Explore the majestic Bangalore Palace and Tipu Sultan's Summer Palace to dive into the city's regal past. For a vibrant shopping experience, wander through Commercial Street and Krishna Rajendra Market. Art aficionados should not miss the National Gallery of Modern Art, while food enthusiasts can indulge in a culinary journey from traditional South Indian fare to innovative international cuisine. For those with a taste for adventure, a short drive will take you to the picturesque Nandi Hills or the historic temples of Hampi, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration during your stay.