Powai is one of the developed localities situated in the north eastern part of the Mumbai city. The Jogeshwari-Vikhroli Link Road passes through Powai and link the western suburbs with the eastern ones.
Powai has been derived from Sanskrit word called Poumw or Pouma meaning Padma. Padmavati Devi Temple is located in the vicinity on the bank of the Powai lake inside IIT Bombay has contributed to its current name. The temple is historically important and dates back to 10th century.
The suburb lies on the bank of Powai lake and is surrounded by Vikhroli Parksite hill towards south east, Chandivali to the south-west, Sanjay Gandhi National Park is towards north and L.B.S. Marg is located in the north eastern part. It is a part of Kurla tehsil and falls under the largest ward of the city, S ward.
The major landmark of the locality is Powai lake which is 120 years old. Another prime landmark is IIT Bombay which is present on the eastern side of the lake.