About The Indian Bouldering Company
The Indian Bouldering Company (TIBC) is Mumbai’s newest full-service indoor rock climbing gym, focused exclusively on bouldering. Launched in 2025, it is the brand’s first location in Mumbai (www.theindianbouldering.co ) and quickly claims the title of “Mumbai’s first and largest full-service indoor bouldering centre” (www.district.in ). Founded to address the “dearth of quality climbing spaces in Mumbai,” TIBC offers a modern, community-minded climbing experience (tibc.co.in ). As their motto proclaims (“Gravity’s so boring – come climb a wall!” (tibc.co.in )), the gym invites everyone from fitness enthusiasts to complete newcomers to try climbing in a fun, social setting.
The facility occupies Shreeniwas House in Fort (Azad Maidan area), a historic building in South Mumbai (www.district.in ). It contains four distinct bouldering zones – named Outcrop, Cave, Gauntlet, and Slab – each with different wall angles and challenges (vertical faces, overhangs, slabs, etc.) to keep climbers of all levels engaged (tibc.co.in ). In addition, TIBC includes “The Rig” (an open functional training gym) and “The Sanctuary” (a serene studio space for yoga, movement or dance) so members can warm up, train or relax off the wall (tibc.co.in ). Equipment rental (climbing shoes and chalk), lockers and showers are provided (tibc.co.in ), along with a small café corner serving healthy snacks (RAUW bars, Bombucha drinks) and a selection of branded merchandise (tibc.co.in ). The entire atmosphere is designed around community – as the owners describe, it’s “a full-service indoor bouldering space, centred around community” where climbers can “meet like-minded people and be a part of our community” (tibc.co.in ). This focus has quickly made TIBC a gathering point for Mumbai’s adventure and fitness crowd. Indeed, the gym even boasts attracting “dancers, yogis, and all-round movers in the city” alongside climbers (tibc.co.in ). All told, its mix of high-end climbing walls, heritage location and welcoming vibe make TIBC a notable new landmark in Mumbai’s active lifestyle scene.
Events and Programming
Like most climbing gyms, TIBC’s core offering is open bouldering sessions every day (with drop-in and class passes available). The gym is open weekdays from midday and all day on weekends, so climbers can book 1–3 hour slots and just show up to climb under friendly supervision. Beyond free-climb time, TIBC hosts a variety of programs: beginners’ intro sessions, coached technique workshops and fitness classes are offered regularly, often on weekends or holiday periods. For example, a recent “Rise and Climb” community event (September 2025) featured a two-hour guided open session (9–11 AM) with expert trainers, suitable for beginners and veteran climbers alike (www.ticketfairy.com ). The event description even touts TIBC as “Mumbai’s newest (and coolest) bouldering studio,” complete with good vibes and refreshments (Nandan Coffee was on hand) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Periodically the gym also runs themed workshops (such as youth camps or fitness challenges), and members often organise friendly competitions or socials at the facility. In addition, The Sanctuary studio hosts regular yoga and mobility classes (perfect for climbers) as well as dance/stretching sessions, rounding out a full schedule of movement and fitness activities. In short, whether you come for casual climbing or to deepen your skills, TIBC’s programming combines open gym time with a variety of classes, training sessions and community events.
Tickets and Booking
Entry to TIBC is ticketed much like a gym or fitness centre. Day passes (valid for a set session) are available and usually include gear rental. While prices can vary, casual drop-in passes typically range from around ₹500–800, depending on session length (discounted if you bring your own shoes or buy a multi-visit pack). Memberships and multi-session punch cards are also offered for regulars, often starting in the low thousands of rupees per month for unlimited climbing. Seasonal holiday camps or workshops are sold separately (for example, a multi-day climbing course might cost on the order of ₹2,000 or more). All ticketing is handled at the front desk or online; if you have questions it’s best to contact the gym directly or follow their official social media for announcements. Most adults can just walk in to buy a pass (especially on weekdays), but popular times and special workshops may sell out – in those cases online booking (through local event platforms) is advised. For any large group or party (birthday, corporate team, etc.), advance booking is recommended. Note that minors (under 18) need a parent or guardian to accompany them and sign waivers. The gym posts updates on bookings and class schedules on its website and social channels, so planning ahead for weekend or holiday climbs is wise.
Gym Layout & Facilities
TIBC is located entirely on the 3rd floor of Shreeniwas House, so visitors will first enter a staircase or elevator lobby on the street level. Inside, there is a reception area for ticketing and gear rental (shoes and chalk are available on-site). The main floor is dominated by padded flooring and climbing walls. The four bouldering sections (Outcrop, Cave, Gauntlet, Slab) occupy different corners: expect steep overhangs and roofs in sections like “Cave” and “Gauntlet,” vertical/ slightly leaning walls in “Outcrop,” and gentler angled slabs in “Slab.” Since this is general-admission style climbing, there are no fixed “VIP” seats or numbered areas – all climbers share the common landing zone. Spectators can stand or sit on benches along the edges of the mats to watch. For those interested in cross-training, “The Rig” area contains free weights, kettlebells, ropes and resistance equipment, while “The Sanctuary” studio has open floor space for yoga or stretching. Near the café corner you’ll find merchandise and a refrigerator with bottled water/energy drinks. Restrooms (with showers) and changing areas are located in the same suite (ask staff for access). Music is played at a moderate level to energise climbers, and the lighting is bright and even across the boards, so visibility is good. In short, the layout is an open-plan gym rather than an auditorium – plan to wear climbing-appropriate athletic wear, remove street shoes, and find a comfortable spot on the rubber mats when not climbing. Staff are on hand to supervise and give tips, but climbers largely self-manage around each other on first-come mats.
Getting There and Parking
Location. The gym’s address is Shreeniwas House, 3rd Floor, 27 Hazarimal Somani Road, Azad Maidan, Fort, Mumbai 400001 (www.district.in ). This places it on the edge of Azad Maidan (the large green field by Bombay Gymkhana) between CST and Marine Drive. It is a short walk from Churchgate Station (Western Line) or CST (Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Central/Harbour Lines). Mumbai Metro’s Line 2A/2B and future Line 3 will have a station (Churchgate and Hutatma Chowk/Marble Market) nearby, but locals usually arrive by local train, bus or road.
Train/Metro: Churchgate (Western Line) is about 8–10 minutes’ walk (0.7 km) via Azad Maidan. Marine Lines (Western) is similarly close on Maharshi Karve Road. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Central/Harbour) is about 15 minutes away on foot to the east. Once at any of these, autorickshaws or taxis can drop you right at Shreeniwas House’s entrance on Hazarimal Somani Road.Bus: Several BEST buses stop at Azad Maidan or nearby Hutatma Chowk – for example routes along Marine Drive (53,109,129), CST area (123,132), and others from Dadar/GTB/Kurla. If unsure, ask for a bus to Azad Maidan (Fort). The walk from any nearby stop is short.Car/Taxi: You can be dropped off directly on Hazarimal Somani Road in front of Shreeniwas House. Ahmedabad/Mumbai taxis (Ola/Uber) will find it under Azad Maidan or Bombay Gymkhana. The area has several paid parking options: the Azad Maidan multi-storey car park is directly adjacent (about ₹30–50 per hour), and there are nearby public lots like the Excelsior Cinema underground parking on Damodardas Road and the HUDCO complex on Mangesh Shinoy Street. Street parking is very limited, so most visitors park and pay in these nearby lots.Walking/Biking: If you are staying in South Mumbai, Azad Maidan is easily walkable. The gym’s lobby has no bike racks, so locking a bike on the street corner is the usual method (wear a helmet).
In summary, public transport (especially local trains) is the easiest way to get to IBC. Arrive at least 10–15 minutes early to find the entrance and check in, especially if it’s your first visit or a busy weekend. On-site staff can give you guidance if needed as soon as you step out of the station or bus.
Inside the Venue
When you enter, staff will check your ticket or membership, go over a brief orientation, and ensure you sign the standard climbing waiver. Everyone is asked to remove shoes and carry a pair of soft socks to wear under the rented climbing shoes (bring a thin pair of socks). The reception wooden counter provides rental shoes and chalk. Lockers are available (usually free or small deposit) for your bag and personal items while you climb. The atmosphere inside is lively and friendly – you’ll hear the sounds of climbers grunting, shoes scrabbling on holds, and moderate background music. Non-climbing companions are welcome to sit on benches along the wall edges or the café area to watch the action (the landing mats and any climber overhead should always be kept clear for safety). The lighting is uniformly bright (LED lights), so visibility on the walls is good, and the padding on the floor is thick enough for safe falls. Staff and other climbers will usually greet newcomers and offer tips, fostering a supportive “gym community” vibe. There is no coat check, so store bulky clothing in your locker if needed.
Facilities include clean restrooms with hot/cold showers (ideal for rinsing chalk or post-climb refresh). The small café corner sells water, sports drinks and snacks by RAUW, as well as Bombucha kombucha drinks (energy-boosting refreshments). A selection of branded gear (t-shirts, water bottles, chalk bags) is also on sale. If you need Wi-Fi or charging, inquire at reception; many climbers simply share mobile-hotspot. For basic first aid, staff carry tape and bandages. Overall the space is organised for safety and convenience: instructions and route difficulties are posted near the walls, and staff are trained in climbing safety. As a visitor, expect to leave any large or pointy objects behind and treat the area respectfully (no eating over the mats, no chalk wrist-slapping on concrete surfaces, etc.). The gym does not tolerate smoking or heavy drinking on site – in fact, it is a strictly smoke-free facility.
Nearby Amenities
The IBC location in the Fort area benefits from numerous nearby conveniences. Around Azad Maidan and Churchgate you’ll find cafes, restaurants and shops. For a quick bite before climbing, there are snack stalls and cafés on Monument Road (just east of Azad Maidan) offering South Indian fare or chai. A short walk or ride takes you to well-known eateries in Fort: for example, you can grab wraps or sandwiches at Black Sheep Bistro, Indian street food at JSM Food Stall, or an all-day café meal at Mocha by Café Tokyo. If you want proper sit-down restaurants, the Colaba/Churchgate area has a variety (especially on Colaba Causeway and near Nariman Point). Late-night options are limited – the surrounding business district quiets after 9 PM – so plan to eat earlier. For post-climb relaxation, a quick drive gets you to trendy lounges and bars in nearby Lower Parel or Colaba. In terms of lodging, Fort’s strictly commercial nature means most hotels are a few kilometres away (for instance, the Taj Mahal Palace and Trident are in Colaba/Nariman Point). Budget travelers can find guesthouses near Churchgate. Finally, commuters often combine a climbing visit with other downtown errands or sightseeing: Azad Maidan is steps from landmarks like the University Convocation Hall and the iconic Bombay Gymkhana, and the promenade of Marine Drive is within half an hour’s walk if you want a post-climb sunset stroll. In short, while the area is not a tourist hotel zone, it has all the essentials (food, transit, taxis) within easy walking distance of the gym.
What Makes This Venue Special
The Indian Bouldering Company stands out for bringing a state-of-the-art climbing facility to the heart of Mumbai’s historic Fort precinct. Its use of a heritage building with city views, combined with modern climbing infrastructure, is unique in India. Unlike older outdoor walls or basic YMCA gyms, TIBC offers professionally route-set bouldering problems in one of the tallest indoor climbing spaces in the city. The four themed walls and additional training studios create a comprehensive “fitness meets adventure” environment (www.district.in ). Equally, its community focus sets it apart. As noted by the owners, this is “a space we would want to enjoy with the people we love” (tibc.co.in ), and climbers report that the atmosphere is both inclusive and relaxed. By marketing itself as a cool, social hub (even calling itself “the coolest bouldering studio” in events copy (www.ticketfairy.com )), IBC has attracted a diverse crowd – from hardcore climbers to friends trying a new fitness hobby together. In doing so, TIBC has helped popularise indoor climbing in Mumbai. It provides a gathering spot where people from all walks of life (students, tech professionals, artists) can try a new challenge. In cultural terms, it taps into Mumbai’s emphasis on community and innovation: locals are proud to have such a large, well-designed gym at Fort, and it complements the city’s fitness trend by offering an alternative to gyms and yoga studios. In summary, both climbers and casual visitors find TIBC special because of its high-quality walls, its vibrant community vibe (they even call it the “most welcoming community of climbers, dancers, yogis…” (tibc.co.in )), and the sheer novelty of defying gravity on real rock surfaces in the middle of the city.
Visitor Tips and Information
What to bring: Wear athletic clothes and clean socks. You can rent climbing shoes and chalk at the gym, but good climbers often buy their own shoes or chalk bag once hooked. Bring a water bottle – there is a drinking fountain or bottled water available. A small towel can be helpful for sweat, and a lock for the locker is a good idea (some lockers are free, but you may have to bring your own padlock).Age and ability: Climbers must be at least 5 years old to participate (www.district.in ). Children and beginners are welcome; first-timers will receive a quick orientation on how to climb safely. No previous experience or fitness level is required, though those with health concerns should consult a doctor and inform the staff. No height minimum is enforced, but adults should supervise small children at all times.Waivers and safety: Signing a waiver is mandatory on your first visit. Always warm up a little before climbing (the gym’s functional area can be used for this). Never climb beyond your limits; staff are there to help. Do not run on the mats or hold unauthorized competition events without permission. Everyone should be mindful of others on the wall – climbers have the right of way on a route. Photography is allowed for personal use (feel free to shoot videos of your climb), but please avoid flash or obstructing areas where people are falling.Rules and attire: No loose jewelry or long hair dangling in your face. Street shoes and sharp objects (keys, tools) are prohibited in the climbing area; leave them in your locker. Chalk use is encouraged but contained (use only on pads or in chalk bags). Dress code is casual sportswear – you’ll see shorts, leggings, t-shirts – and it gets warm once you start climbing, so dress in layers. The gym is air-conditioned, but climbers can get hot, so pace yourself. No smoking or alcohol is permitted inside or on the premises. Finally, observe posted colour labels for route difficulty and stick to walls matching your experience.Accessibility: The gym entrance is on the third floor. The building has an elevator to reach that level, so wheelchair users or those with mobility challenges should be able to enter the facility. (The climbing walls themselves are, of course, for standing climbers only.) Accessible restrooms are available on site. If you have specific access needs, call ahead to ensure staff can assist.Common mistakes: Don’t arrive at closing time – staff start encouraging exits ~20 minutes early. It’s easy to lose track of time while climbing, so plan accordingly (the mats must be cleared promptly). Also, avoid “climbing too hanging out” – keep walkways and landing zones clear for others. If you drop something, pick it up right away. Most importantly, don’t overestimate yourself on a tricky route; beginners often hurt fingers or ankles by falling awkwardly. Always ask staff or other climbers if uncertain about a hold or move.Peak times and prices: Weekends and late afternoons are busiest, so if you want space, try a weekday or early morning session. Race to be among the first – mid-afternoon Monday is usually quiet. Pricing is posted at reception and tends to be tiered by session duration. Long-term deals or “unlimited” memberships may require an ID or registration.Connections: No need to call ahead beyond booking special events. The gym has Wi-Fi (free to guests) but if connectivity is spotty, just ask at reception. Outgoing cell signal is generally good at street level. For emergencies, Mumbai’s standard emergency number is 112 (medical) or 100 (police). The gym itself has staff trained in first aid, but carry any personal medication you might need.
How much does it cost to climb at The Indian Bouldering Company?
Pricing varies by session and package. Casual drop-in day passes are typically on the order of a few hundred rupees (often around ₹500–700 for a block of time, including shoe rental). Multi-visit punch cards and monthly memberships are available for frequent climbers (for example, unlimited entry may run a few thousand rupees per month). Special events or workshops (like holiday camps) have separate fees (often ₹1,000–2,000). It’s best to check with the front desk or the gym’s announcements for current rates.
Where can I buy tickets or passes for climbing sessions?
Passes can be purchased directly at the gym’s reception desk. You may also be able to pre-book sessions or events (especially for group classes or camps) through official channels. If an event is listed (e.g. on a local events site), it’s often sold online. In general, you can just walk in and buy a day pass during gym hours, or call/DM the gym’s official page to check availability for a specific date.
What are the opening hours of The Indian Bouldering Company?
The gym is open daily (including major holidays) with these hours: Monday–Friday from 1:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and Saturday–Sunday from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (www.theindianbouldering.co ). It’s a good idea to arrive 10–15 minutes before closing if you want a full session, as staff begin winding down access around 8:45 PM.
What is the exact address of The Indian Bouldering Company?
It is located at 3rd Floor, Shreeniwas House, 27 Hazarimal Somani Road, Azad Maidan, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001 (www.district.in ). This is adjacent to Azad Maidan park, near Churchgate/Marine Lines stations.
Which train or bus should I take to reach there?
The closest local train stations are Churchgate (Western line) and Marine Lines (also Western), each roughly a 10–15 minute walk. Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (Central/Harbour line) is about 10–12 minutes’ walk east. Many buses stop at Azad Maidan or Hutatma Chowk – for example routes running along Marine Drive or Lower Parel. Once off the train/bus, an autorickshaw or taxi ride of 2–3 minutes can drop you directly at the gym entrance on Hazarimal Somani Road.
What parking options are available nearby?
There is no private gym parking, but multiple public lots are within a block. The Azad Maidan multi-level car park (open to public) is right adjoining the gym, and charges around ₹30–50 per hour. The New Excelsior Cinema underground parking (on Damodardas Road) is about 150 meters away. Street parking at Fort is very limited and usually filled with paid metered spaces, so the multi-storey and nearby pay lots are safest. A quick drop-off zone is available on Hazarimal Somani Road for taxis or ride-shares.
Are there places to sit or watch climbers at the gym?
Since this is an active climbing studio, there are no assigned spectator seats. However, small benches and floor cushions are available near the walls where friends can sit or stand. Observers usually position themselves at the edge of the padded areas, clear of active routes. Just be sure to stay out of the fall zone under anyone climbing. Many people also wait in the café/lobby area before or after their turn, which offers partial views through glass or periodically standing by the wall edge to cheer on climbers.
What items are not allowed inside the gym?
Sharp objects, large backpacks or sporting gear (besides climbing) should be left in lockers; only wear shoes when off the climbing mats. Food beyond small snacks/drinks is discouraged (water bottles and energy bars are fine; full meals should be eaten outside). Smoking or alcohol are strictly prohibited. Phones and cameras are allowed, but please avoid flash photography and respect others’ privacy. Finally, no street or street shoes on the mats – only clean climbing shoes or socks on the padded flooring.
Is there an age limit for climbing?
TIBC welcomes climbers of all ages who meet the minimum requirement. The official policy is that climbers must be 5 years or older (www.district.in ). Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult who signs the waiver. Very young kids (under 5) typically have difficulty using the walls safely and are therefore not allowed. For older children or teens, a simple orientation is given. Parents often climb together with kids or swap turns safely. There is no upper-age limit – many adults and seniors also enjoy bouldering for fitness. As always, discuss any medical concerns with staff before climbing.
Can I rent climbing shoes and chalk there?
Yes. The venue provides rental climbing shoes and chalk to all visitors for a small fee (rental cost is absorbed into most drop-in passes). It’s common to bring thin nylon socks to wear with shoe rentals. You don’t need to buy your own gear on your first visit. If you decide to climb regularly, you can purchase a personal pair of climbing shoes from the gym or outside shops, but renting on-site is easy and hygienic (they clean shoes daily). Chalk is sold or provided in communal buckets if needed during climbing.
Are lockers and showers available?
Yes. Locker rooms with secure lockers are provided – you can use your own padlock or request one at reception. The gym also has clean restrooms with hot/cold showers for post-climb freshening (towels may be available for rent or bring your own). These facilities are on the same level as the climbing area. Remember to keep valuables locked up, as the management is not responsible for lost items.
Is there wi-fi or mobile service inside?
Mobile phone coverage is generally strong at street level and inside the gym. Many climbers rely on their own device signals, which work well for texting or quick checks. Free Wi-Fi may be available on request (some customers simply share their own hotspots). If you plan to stream music or video, bring a portable hotspot or ask staff if a guest network is active. Note: Wi-Fi is not needed for climbing itself, as the focus is on physical activity, but it’s on hand for convenience.
Is The Indian Bouldering Company wheelchair-accessible?
The building has an elevator to reach the 3rd-floor gym, making the facility entrance accessible for wheelchair users or those with mobility needs. Inside, common areas, locker rooms and restrooms are accessible. (Of course, the climbing walls themselves require standing/walking to use.) As always, it’s a newer renovation so do feel free to call ahead if you have specific accessibility requirements. Staff are generally helpful in providing assistance within the building as needed.
What should first-time climbers expect?
If you’ve never climbed before, arrive a little early on your first visit. Staff will give you a brief introduction to basic movements, safety rules, and how to use the mats. Usually newcomers start on the easier “Slab” wall or green-route problems to get comfortable. Don’t worry about making mistakes – falling on the padded mats is part of learning bouldering. Other climbers are often friendly and will advise. Plan to spend the first 10–15 minutes reviewing safety, signing waivers and getting fitted for shoes. After that, you can climb at your own pace. Just remember to have fun and climb within your comfort zone.
Is there a recommended arrival time before my climbing session?
Yes – since you’ll need some time to check in, sign paperwork, and gear up, it’s wise to arrive at least 10–15 minutes before your booked climb time. For an unbooked drop-in, coming early (e.g. opening time or start of the hour) ensures you get gear and a spot on the mats. The gym gets busy on weekends, so on Saturdays and Sundays try to arrive even earlier to avoid long lines at reception. Leaving on time is also important – by policy they clear the mats about 5–10 minutes before closing so plan breaks or stop climbing by then.
