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Nilkhet Book Market

Explore Dhaka's literary heart: Nilkhet Book Market, where affordable books and academic resources meet vibrant culture.

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Nilkhet Book Market in Dhaka is a bustling hub for students and book lovers, offering a wide array of affordable books, magazines, and academic resources. With a history spanning over four decades, it has become a vital part of the city's educational and cultural landscape.

A brief summary to Book sale

  • 32 Mirpur Rd, Dhaka, Lalbagh, 1205, BD

Local tips

  • Hone your bargaining skills to get the best deals on books, as haggling is a common practice.
  • Visit during off-peak hours (mid-morning or early afternoon) to avoid the largest crowds.
  • Be aware of your belongings and surroundings due to the crowded environment.
  • Explore the smaller stalls and shops on the side streets for unique finds and hidden gems.
  • Check for pirated copies, especially of popular books, and be mindful of copyright issues.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Shahbag, a central transportation hub in Dhaka, you can take a local bus towards Azimpur. Look for buses with 'Nilkhet' clearly marked on their route. The bus fare is typically around 10-20 BDT. Alternatively, from Gulistan, Arambagh or Fakirapool bus stations, you can take a CNG auto-rickshaw to Nilkhet. Bus travel from one side of Dhaka to the other takes about 3 hours.

  • Walking

    Nilkhet is located between Dhaka University, New Market, and Elephant Road, making it easily accessible on foot from these areas. From Dhaka University, it's a short walk west. From New Market, head east towards Mirpur Road. Walking is a good way to avoid traffic congestion.

  • Taxi/Ride-sharing

    Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Pathao are readily available in Dhaka. You can easily book a ride to Nilkhet using a mobile app. A taxi ride from a central location like Motijheel to Nilkhet would cost approximately 300-500 BDT, depending on traffic and distance. Ensure the meter is running or negotiate the fare beforehand.

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Discover more about Book sale

Nilkhet Book Market, located in Dhaka, Bangladesh, is more than just a marketplace; it's a cultural institution and the largest second-hand book market in the country. Situated between Dhaka University, New Market, and Elephant Road, it has been a vital resource for students, researchers, and avid readers for decades. The market's history dates back to the early 1970s when a few entrepreneurs began selling used books and magazines outside the Balaka Cinema Hall. Over time, it has grown into a sprawling network of over 1300 shops, offering a wide selection of books at affordable prices. The name 'Nilkhet,' meaning 'blue field,' hints at the area's possible past use for indigo cultivation. Nilkhet's proximity to major educational institutions like Dhaka University, Dhaka Medical College, and BUET has fueled its growth as a primary source for textbooks and academic materials. Students can find textbooks for all levels and disciplines, as well as auxiliary services like photocopying and bookbinding. The market is also popular among English-language readers seeking foreign books, journals, and comics that are either unavailable elsewhere or too expensive to buy new. While Nilkhet offers incredible value and selection, it also faces challenges such as congestion and the sale of pirated books. Efforts have been made to improve the market's infrastructure and curb illegal activities, but more work is needed to ensure its continued success as a vital cultural and economic hub.

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