Festival Hub & Transit
The annual Kala Ghoda Arts Festival, a nine-day celebration of creativity, transformed Mumbai's historic Fort precinct into a lively cultural landscape
from January 31st to February 8th, 2026. This esteemed event unfolds across several key heritage streets and public spaces, including the areas surrounding Jehangir Art Gallery, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya, David Sassoon Library, Asiatic Library steps, Horniman Circle Gardens, and Cross Maidan. Its central location in South Mumbai makes it exceptionally accessible via public transportation, with trains and the metro being the most recommended modes of arrival for festival-goers looking to avoid travel hassles and embrace the city's public transit system.
Reaching by Train
For train travellers, the Kala Ghoda Festival is conveniently situated between two major railway termini: Churchgate and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT), both within a manageable walk of the festival grounds. Churchgate, the concluding station for the Western Line, is approximately 1.4 kilometres away from the main festival areas. Many attendees opt for a pleasant 15-20 minute stroll from Churchgate, soaking in the charming tree-lined avenues and historical architecture of South Mumbai. Alternatively, numerous BEST buses and readily available taxis can ferry you from outside Churchgate station directly to points near Hutatma Chowk or Flora Fountain, just a short distance from the festival's heart. CSMT, slightly closer at about 1.2 kilometres, offers a similarly picturesque walk, providing an excellent introduction to the area's grand colonial buildings. If walking isn't preferred, a variety of BEST bus routes depart from CSMT, all heading towards Hutatma Chowk, ensuring easy access to the festival.
Metro Line Advantages
The newly established underground Aqua Line metro offers a remarkably efficient method for reaching South Mumbai, and it proves to be an ideal conduit to the Kala Ghoda Festival. This line, extending from Cuffe Parade to Aarey JVLR, significantly slashes travel durations for commuters arriving from various parts of the expansive city. The closest metro station to the festival's vibrant nexus is Hutatma Chowk, situated a mere 850 metres away. Upon exiting the station, navigating towards the festival is straightforward, with clear signage guiding visitors directly into the lanes brimming with artistic expressions. This metro route provides a swift and modern alternative for festival attendees.
Bus Connectivity
BEST buses remain an exceptionally reliable and fundamental aspect of Mumbai's public transit network, and the Kala Ghoda Festival area is exceptionally well-served by a multitude of routes. Regardless of your starting point, whether you're arriving from the prominent railway stations of Churchgate or CSMT, or from other adjoining neighbourhoods, buses frequently halt at key points crucial for festival access. These include stops at Hutatma Chowk, Flora Fountain, and the vicinity of the Museum area. This extensive bus network ensures that even if you're not within walking distance of a train or metro station, a direct or connecting bus route can easily bring you close to the artistic heart of the city.
