What are some downsides of studying at IIT Mandi?

IIT Mandi is a great institute for higher education, but like any institution, it does have some downsides. 

• IIT Mandi campus is remotely located and the town surrounding the campus is small and lacks basic amenities. For example, it is difficult to get things required for projects. It is either unavailable in Mandi or expensive. You have to order online but delivery takes 1-2 days more.
• Mandi is less developed as compared to other cities like Ropar, Gandhinagar, etc thus hampering placements.
• IIT Mandi campus is located in the mountains which can be challenging for students who are not used to the altitude. 
• IIT Mandi campus is still in its development phase and thus lacks in terms of facilities and resources.
• Owing to its remote location, IIT Mandi students find it difficult to connect with friends and family who live far away.
• Additionally you might face problems with equipment or machines in labs, although such problems are also prevalent in other IITs.

This being said, IIT Mandi is doing a good job and overall comparison shows that it is one of the better colleges among new IITs.