Thinking of joining an IIT? IIT Ropar might just be the perfect pick. Established in 2008, this young but fast-rising institute in Rupnagar, Punjab, combines academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and a vibrant campus life in a scenic setting.
With strong faculty, modern facilities, and rising national and global rankings, IIT Ropar is quickly becoming a top choice for aspiring engineers. In this article, we’ll explore what sets it apart—from its serene campus to its standout achievements.
Overview of IIT Ropar
IIT Ropar, officially known as the Indian Institute of Technology Ropar, is one of the newer additions to the IIT family in India. Established in 2008, IIT Ropar was part of the Government of India’s initiative to establish more IITs across the country. The goal was to provide world-class technical education and research opportunities in emerging areas of science and engineering. Located in the town of Rupnagar (Ropar) in Punjab, IIT Ropar is well-positioned to meet the growing demand for highly skilled engineers in India and globally.
IIT Ropar’s motto, “Dhiyo yo naḥ pracodayāt”, is derived from a verse in the Rigveda. In English, it translates to “Deploy our Intellect on the Right Path”. This motto reflects the institution’s commitment to guiding students towards excellence while upholding values of integrity, innovation, and ethical responsibility. IIT Ropar is situated on a sprawling campus of 525 acres in the serene town of Rupnagar, which lies near the banks of the Sutlej River.
Key details about IIT Ropar:
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Indian Institute of Technology Ropar (IIT Ropar) |
| Established | 2008 |
| Location | Rupnagar (Ropar), Punjab, India |
| Campus Size | 525 acres (2.12 km²) |
| Chairman | Adil Zainulbhai |
| Director | Rajeev Ahuja |
| Academic Staff | 179 |
| Students | 2,768 |
| Undergraduates | 1,408 |
| Postgraduates | 489 |
| Doctoral Students | 871 |
| Motto | Dhiyo yo naḥ pracodayāt (Sanskrit) |
| Motto in English | “Deploy our intellect on the right path” |
| Type | Public |
| Campus Type | Urban |
| Colours | Yellow, Green |
| Nickname | IIT Ropar, IITRPR |
| Affiliations | Ministry of Education, Government of India |
| Website | www.iitrpr.ac.in |
| International Ranking | QS Asia Ranking (2022): 151–200 |
| National Ranking (NIRF) | 22nd in Engineering (2024) |
| Research Ranking (NIRF) | 45th in Research (2024) |
| Nearest Airport | Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport, Chandigarh (~55 km) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Rupnagar Railway Station (8 km) |
| Hostels | Separate hostels for boys and girls |
| Sports Facilities | Cricket, football, tennis, basketball, gymnasium |
| Nearby Attractions | Sutlej Riverfront, Ropar Wetland, Bela Chowk Market |
IIT Ropar Rankings
IIT Ropar has gained recognition on the global stage in several prestigious rankings. In the QS Asia Rankings 2022, IIT Ropar was placed in the 151-200 range, which highlights its growing reputation in the academic and research spheres.
QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) is one of the leading global ranking organizations, and IIT Ropar’s position reflects its increasing prominence among top institutions across Asia.
Additionally, IIT Ropar was ranked 501-600 globally by Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2022. This is a significant achievement for an institution that is still in its early years, emphasizing the quality of research, teaching, and infrastructure at IIT Ropar.
IIT Ropar’s rankings:
| Ranking Category | Ranking (2024) |
| QS Asia Rankings | 151-200 (2022) |
| Times Higher Education World University Rankings | 501-600 (2022) |
| NIRF Engineering (India) | 22nd |
| NIRF Research (India) | 45th |
National Rankings
Within India, IIT Ropar has consistently performed well in national rankings. According to the National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) 2024, IIT Ropar secured the 22nd rank in the Engineering category. This is an impressive position, considering the large number of engineering institutions in India. The NIRF rankings are considered one of the most reliable sources for evaluating academic and institutional excellence in India.
IIT Ropar has also made significant progress in research and innovation. In the NIRF 2024 Research Rankings, it was ranked 45th.
Where Is IIT Ropar?
IIT Ropar is located in the town of Rupnagar (Ropar) in the state of Punjab, India. Situated on the banks of the Sutlej River, it is an ideal setting for students to engage in focused academic pursuits amidst natural beauty. The campus is nestled near the Shivalik Hills, offering picturesque views and a serene environment conducive to learning and research.
Exact Location of IIT Ropar
IIT Ropar is located at 30°58′13″N latitude and 76°28′09″E longitude, making it well-positioned for access to both urban and rural areas in the region. Its location in the northern part of India is particularly advantageous for students from nearby states like Punjab, Haryana, and Himachal Pradesh, as well as from neighboring areas like Chandigarh.
The permanent campus is spread over 525 acres of land, providing ample space for academic buildings, student hostels, sports facilities, and recreational areas.
IIT Ropar Permanent Campus Address
The permanent campus of IIT Ropar is situated in Rupnagar, Punjab, India, and is located close to the Sutlej River. The scenic surroundings and the tranquility of the area make it an excellent location for academic excellence.
For those who wish to visit or need to send correspondence, the campus address is:
IIT Ropar Main Campus
Rupnagar, Punjab – 140001
India
If you’re planning to visit the campus, you can easily find it on Google Maps or use the following link: Google Maps Link.
Transit Campus (Previous Location)
Before shifting to its permanent campus, IIT Ropar operated from two transit campuses. These were temporary spaces used while the main campus was under construction.
Transit Campus-1: Women’s Polytechnic College, Rupnagar
This was the first temporary campus of IIT Ropar. Located within the town of Rupnagar, it provided the initial infrastructure for academic activities and served as the base for the institute’s early batches of students.
Transit Campus-2: Shared Space with NIELIT Ropar
The second temporary campus was located at the National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology (NIELIT) in Rupnagar. Here, IIT Ropar conducted various academic and administrative activities until the permanent campus was ready for operation.
Geographic Significance and Accessibility
IIT Ropar’s location in Punjab is strategically beneficial for students. Being near the Sutlej River and Shivalik Hills not only makes it a scenic and peaceful place for studying, but it also places the campus in a region rich in cultural heritage and natural resources.
Rupnagar itself is a historical town known for its connection to the Indus Valley Civilization. The town is relatively close to Chandigarh, the capital city of both Punjab and Haryana, which makes it easily accessible by various means of transport.
Major Cities Close to IIT Ropar
Chandigarh: Chandigarh, which is approximately 55 km away from IIT Ropar, is the nearest major city. Known for its well-planned infrastructure and modern amenities, Chandigarh serves as an excellent base for students traveling to and from IIT Ropar.
Delhi: Delhi, the national capital of India, is approximately 250-300 km away from IIT Ropar. It is easily reachable by road or rail, and offers a wide range of transportation services, including direct buses and trains to Rupnagar.
How to Reach IIT Ropar?
IIT Ropar, located in the town of Rupnagar (Ropar), Punjab, is easily accessible through various modes of transportation. Whether you are a student traveling from within Punjab, nearby states, or from other parts of India, you will find convenient travel options. Below is a detailed guide on how to reach IIT Ropar using different modes of transport: air, train, and road.
1) By Air (Nearest Airport)
The nearest airport to IIT Ropar is Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Chandigarh, which is located approximately 55 km away from the IIT Ropar campus. This airport serves both domestic and limited international flights, making it the most convenient air travel option for students.
Travel Time and Cost:
- Travel Time: The airport is about 1.5 hours by road from IIT Ropar, depending on traffic conditions.
- Estimated Cost: A one-way cab fare from Chandigarh Airport to IIT Ropar is around ₹1700 (including GST). The cost may vary depending on the type of taxi (prepaid or app-based) and traffic conditions.
Available Transport Options from Chandigarh Airport:
- Prepaid Taxis: These are available at the airport’s taxi counter and provide a fixed fare to your destination.
- App-Based Rides: You can also opt for Uber, Ola, or other ride-hailing services, which are widely available in Chandigarh.
- Shared Cabs: Several private travel agencies offer shared cabs that can help reduce costs, especially if you are traveling with a group.
If you’re traveling during peak hours or seasons, it’s recommended to pre-book a taxi or ride for a smoother experience.
2) By Train (Nearest Railway Stations)
The Rupnagar Railway Station is the nearest railway station to IIT Ropar, located just 8 km away from the campus. This makes it an ideal and convenient choice for travelers. The station is well-connected to various cities and towns, including Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Delhi.
- Travel Time: The journey from Rupnagar Railway Station to IIT Ropar typically takes about 15-20 minutes by auto-rickshaw.
- Estimated Cost: A rickshaw ride from the station to the campus costs approximately ₹600, including GST.
Special IIT Shuttle Services:
To facilitate travel for students, IIT Ropar offers a special shuttle service between the railway station and the campus on select days. This service is free or subsidized for students and can be a great option if you are arriving on a designated shuttle day.
Shuttle Schedule:
| Day | Departure Time | Route |
| Monday | 5:15 AM | Rupnagar Station → Main Campus |
| Friday | 10:15 PM | Main Campus → Rupnagar Station |
| Saturday | 5:50 AM | Main Campus → Rupnagar Station |
If your travel timings coincide with the shuttle, it’s a convenient and cost-effective way to reach the campus.
Chandigarh Railway Station
If you are traveling from farther locations, such as Delhi or other parts of India, Chandigarh Railway Station is another nearby option. The station is located about 57 km from IIT Ropar.
- Travel Time: The journey from Chandigarh Railway Station to IIT Ropar takes about 1.5 to 2 hours by cab.
- Estimated Cost: A one-way cab fare from Chandigarh Railway Station to IIT Ropar is approximately ₹1700, including GST.
Chandigarh Railway Station is better connected to other major cities in India, including Delhi, Amritsar, and Mumbai, and offers more frequent train services than Rupnagar Railway Station.
3) By Road (Bus & Self-Drive Options)
1) From Chandigarh: Chandigarh is well-connected to IIT Ropar by both bus and road, making it an easily accessible option for students.
Bus:
- Punjab Roadways/PRTC buses operate regular services between Chandigarh and Rupnagar. The bus ride typically takes about 2 hours.
- The bus station in Chandigarh is well connected to various parts of the city, and buses to Rupnagar are frequent and affordable.
Self-Drive: If you prefer to drive yourself, the distance from Chandigarh to IIT Ropar is approximately 55 km, and the road trip will take around 1.5 hours. The most convenient route is via NH205 and the Rupnagar Bypass.
2) From Delhi: If you are traveling from Delhi, there are several bus services available that connect directly to Rupnagar. The journey is longer, but it is still convenient.
- Bus: Volvo buses from Delhi to Rupnagar take approximately 6-7 hours. These buses are comfortable, offering a smooth ride.
- Self-Drive: The distance from Delhi to IIT Ropar is about 250-300 km, and the drive will take approximately 5-6 hours via NH44 and NH205.
Local Commute to IIT Ropar Campus
Once you arrive in Rupnagar, commuting to IIT Ropar is easy and affordable.
Institute Buses: IIT Ropar provides free and subsidized bus services for students traveling between the Main Campus and Transit Campuses. The buses run at regular intervals, with services starting as early as 7:25 AM and running until 12:30 AM (midnight) on weekdays. On weekends, the frequency may be reduced.
Auto-Rickshaws & Taxis: Auto-rickshaws are available in Rupnagar, and the fare from the Rupnagar Railway Station to IIT Ropar is approximately ₹150. Make sure to negotiate before boarding to avoid being overcharged.
Market Trip Shuttle: For students wishing to visit the local markets, a shuttle service runs between the campus and Bela Chowk (SBS Chowk) at 6:35 PM, with a return trip at 8:20 PM.
IIT Ropar Campus Layout & Key Landmarks
The layout of IIT Ropar is carefully planned to offer easy access to key facilities, ensuring that students, faculty, and staff can move around the campus efficiently. The campus is designed to cater to both academic needs and student well-being, with modern buildings, ample open spaces, and state-of-the-art facilities.
Main Gate
The main entrance of IIT Ropar is a prominent architectural feature that welcomes visitors with its grandeur. Inspired by the Indus Valley Civilization architecture, the gate is marked by four massive 41-ft stone pillars, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of the region. The pillars serve as a reminder of India’s ancient scientific and intellectual traditions, making the entrance an important landmark on the campus.
Academic Blocks
The academic blocks at IIT Ropar are spread across the campus, each dedicated to specific departments and research activities. The buildings are named after prominent Indian scientists and luminaries, underscoring the institution’s commitment to honoring the country’s scientific heritage. These include:
- Ramanujan Block: Named after the famous mathematician Srinivasa Ramanujan, this block houses the Department of Mathematics and other related departments.
- JC Bose Block: This building is dedicated to the Department of Physics, named after the great scientist Jagadish Chandra Bose.
- Visvesvaraya Block: This block is dedicated to the Department of Civil Engineering, named after Sir Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, one of India’s most respected engineers.
These blocks are equipped with lecture halls, seminar rooms, and laboratories that are essential for research and learning in the respective fields. The academic complex is designed to provide a collaborative and productive environment for students and faculty alike.
The Spiral
A notable feature at the entrance of IIT Ropar is The Spiral, an artistic representation of a DNA structure. The Spiral is an iconic sculpture that symbolizes the advancement of science, technology, and innovation at IIT Ropar. It represents the institute’s commitment to growth, evolution, and research in the fields of science and engineering. Students and visitors alike find this structure to be a striking and thought-provoking landmark, adding to the aesthetic appeal of the campus.
Hostels: The IIT Ropar campus has separate hostels for boys and girls, providing comfortable living spaces for students. The hostels are designed to be self-sufficient, with all necessary amenities including mess facilities, common rooms, and recreational areas.
Students Activity Center (SAC)
The Students Activity Center (SAC) is an important part of the IIT Ropar campus, serving as a hub for extracurricular activities and student engagement. It houses various clubs and student organizations, providing a space for students to pursue their interests outside academics. The SAC includes:
- Gymnasium: The center features a fully equipped gym where students can maintain their fitness and health.
- Club Rooms: These rooms are used by various student clubs for organizing events, workshops, and meetings.
- Cultural Activities: The SAC is also the venue for cultural events, performances, and festivals, fostering creativity and collaboration among students.
Central Library: The Central Library at IIT Ropar is the primary resource hub for students, faculty, and researchers. It houses an extensive collection of books, journals, and research papers across various fields of study. The library is equipped with digital resources, e-books, and online databases to support academic and research activities.
IIT Ropar Nearby Attractions & Facilities
IIT Ropar is located in the scenic city of Rupnagar, Punjab, which is known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. Whether it’s for a short break or a weekend trip, students can enjoy several nearby spots that offer both relaxation and a deeper connection to the local culture and nature.
Sutlej Riverfront
The Sutlej Riverfront is one of the most popular spots near IIT Ropar, offering a peaceful environment for students to relax and enjoy nature. The riverfront provides a beautiful view of the Sutlej River, and it is an ideal place for evening walks or a leisurely picnic with friends. The surroundings are tranquil, with scenic views of the river and the Shivalik Hills, making it a perfect spot for reflection or a break from the academic pressures.
Ropar Wetland (Ramsar Site)
The Ropar Wetland is a protected area and a designated Ramsar site, located near IIT Ropar. It is a biodiversity hotspot that attracts nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The wetland is home to numerous bird species, especially migratory birds during the winter months. It offers students the opportunity to observe local flora and fauna and learn more about ecological conservation. This site is perfect for those looking to connect with nature and witness the beauty of Punjab’s natural resources.
Local Markets: Bela Chowk
For students looking to experience local culture and shop for everyday essentials, Bela Chowk is the go-to destination. It is a lively market where students can find a variety of items, including clothing, electronics, books, and food. The market is also known for its street food stalls, offering a range of local delicacies. Whether you need to pick up groceries or enjoy some local treats, Bela Chowk is a convenient and vibrant spot to visit.
Haveli Dhaba
For food lovers, Haveli Dhaba is a must-visit roadside eatery that serves authentic Punjabi food. Known for its rustic ambiance and delicious dishes, it provides an excellent taste of the region’s culinary traditions. Students often head to Haveli Dhaba for a quick meal, enjoying hearty Punjabi food after a long day of lectures or study sessions. It’s an ideal place to relax with friends and experience the flavors of Punjab.
Conclusion
IIT Ropar, though young, has quickly established itself as a leading institution in India for engineering education. With its impressive academic programs, world-class faculty, and stunning campus, it offers a unique and enriching experience for students. The institution’s growing reputation, strong research initiatives, and excellent placement opportunities make it a solid choice for anyone aspiring to excel in the field of engineering.
Whether you’re a student looking to join or simply curious about IIT Ropar, the campus and facilities here will support your growth every step of the way. As IIT Ropar continues to climb in rankings and evolve, it remains committed to shaping the next generation of engineers and innovators.
