Travel & Logistics

What are the nearest airports to fly into?

Coimbatore International Airport is the primary airport serving the Coimbatore Metropolitan Area in Tamil Nadu, India. Most likely, you will have to connect via Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, or Hyderabad. The airport code is CJB.

Will transportation be provided between venues and hotels?

Yes, our events team will coordinate with you to get your arrival and departure times, and arrange transportation accordingly. We will also take care of all other transportation requirements between the 2 venues.

What is the best time to arrive and depart?

Please try to arrive before 2 pm IST on July 3rd, and leave no earlier than 12 pm IST on July 5th.

Do I need a Visa or specific travel documents?

U.S. citizens traveling to India must have a passport valid for at least six months with two blank pages and a valid visa (e-Visa or paper visa). The easiest method is the e-Visa (tourist) applied for online at indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4-7 days before travel.

Can I extend my stay?

Yes, you are absolutely welcome to come early / stay later. The more time we get to spend together the better! Please keep us in the loop so we can plan accordingly.

Accommodation

Where should I stay? Are there hotel blocks or recommended options?

Please do not book any stays. We will be covering your stay during your time in Coimbatore:
Friday, July 3rd: Dvara Siruvani Resorts
Saturday, July 4th: Merlis Hotel, Coimbatore
Sunday, July 5th: Merlis Hotel, Coimbatore (Optional Night)

Food & Dining

What kind of food will be served? Will there be vegetarian / vegan / dietary options?

Yes, we will have a variety of vegetarian options at all events. The primary cuisine will be traditional South Indian, but all meals will include North Indian and Continental options.

Will alcohol be served?

We'll have an open bar at select events. For other events, guests will have access to informal cocktail lounges.

Weather & Packing

What will the weather be like in Coimbatore?

Expect warm and humid conditions with a high around 86°F (30°C) and lows around 73°F (23°C). July is part of the monsoon season, making it largely cloudy with a strong possibility of moderate, sporadic rain. It is generally a pleasant time with moderate temperatures compared to summer.

The events are held across both outdoor and indoor venues. Please pack accordingly.

Are there any packing constraints to keep in mind?

Domestic travel within India (especially if you have a connecting flight to Coimbatore) typically includes a checked baggage allowance of 15 kg (33 lbs). To avoid excess baggage fees, we recommend pre-purchasing additional allowance if needed before your journey.

We’ll also have a small gift hamper for you to take home, so please keep aside 1–2 kg of space in your luggage.

Do I bring any gifts with me?

Your presence and your enthusiastic participation is the most meaningful thing you can gift us. Beyond that, please come visit us in SF and gift us more of your time.

South Indian Cultural Practices

Are there any cultural etiquette tips?

The most important thing is to come with openness and curiosity - there’s no strict etiquette to worry about, and please feel free to ask anyone from the family if you’re unsure about any traditions. The events on Day 1 are the most energetic and playful, bring your highest energy here. The events on Day 2 and 3 are relatively more formal affairs, but there will still be a lot of vibrant spaces for celebration. Please bring your full selves, as long as we're treating everyone with respect and kindness.

Will there be any language barriers?

English will be the primary language of communication. All events will be hosted in English. All signage will include English translations. The majority of people in attendance will be able to communicate in English.

The religious rituals (for the Nalangu and Muhurtham) will take place in Sanskrit or Tamil, but some English translation will be included.

How do I address other people?

If someone is older than you please go with aunty or uncle.
If someone is your age or below, you can refer to them by name.