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Exploring the Heart of Kolkata: College Street

Discover Kolkata's literary heart at College Street, a vibrant hub of bookstores, cafes, and cultural richness that embodies the city's intellectual spirit.

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College Street in Kolkata is a vibrant cultural hub renowned for its historic bookstores, lively cafes, and a rich intellectual atmosphere. This iconic area is a must-visit for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the city's literary heritage and culinary delights.

A brief summary to college street

  • H9G7+PPJ, College St, Kolkata, College Square West, College Square, West Bengal, IN

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy a peaceful stroll and avoid the midday crowds.
  • Don't miss trying the iconic Coffee House for a taste of Kolkata's literary history.
  • Explore the side streets for hidden gems, including smaller, quaint bookshops.
  • Bring cash, as some smaller vendors may not accept card payments.
  • Engage with local vendors to learn more about their books and snacks; they often have fascinating stories to share.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    If you are near the Howrah Railway Station, exit the station and head towards the Howrah Bridge. Cross the bridge on foot, enjoying the views of the Hooghly River. Once you reach the Kolkata side, turn left and walk along the riverbank until you reach the intersection with Strand Road. Continue walking straight until you reach the junction with the Vidyasagar Setu (Bridge). From here, you can take a left turn and follow the road until you reach College Street, where you will find the entrance to College Square.

  • Metro

    If you are near the Esplanade Metro Station, take the East-West metro line towards Sector V. Change at the next station, Mahatma Gandhi Road, and take the North-South line towards Kavi Subhash. Get off at the College Street station. Exit the station and walk towards College Street, which is a short distance away. Follow the local signs or ask passersby for directions to College Square.

  • Rickshaw

    If you are in the vicinity of Park Street, you can hire a cycle rickshaw. Tell the driver to take you to College Street. The ride should take around 15 minutes, depending on traffic. You can ask the driver to drop you off near College Square, which is a popular landmark.

  • Bus

    From the Dharmatala Bus Stand, look for buses heading towards College Street. Buses numbered 2, 3, and 47 frequently pass this route. Board any of these buses and inform the conductor to drop you off at College Street. The bus ride will take approximately 20-30 minutes depending on traffic. After disembarking, follow the signs or ask locals for the exact location of College Square.

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Discover more about college street

College Street, situated in the bustling heart of Kolkata, is one of the most significant cultural and educational hubs in India. Famous for its long stretch of bookshops, this area is often referred to as 'Boi Para' (Book Town), making it a paradise for bibliophiles and a treasure trove of knowledge. Here, visitors can find everything from rare books to the latest bestsellers, and the vibrant ambiance created by the presence of students and scholars adds to the charm of the streets. The iconic Coffee House, a historic café, is a perfect spot to enjoy a cup of coffee while soaking in the intellectual conversations that often take place within its walls. The café has been a gathering place for writers, artists, and thinkers for decades, making it an essential stop for anyone visiting College Street. Beyond books and coffee, College Street offers a variety of street food options that showcase the local culinary scene. Tourists can indulge in delicious Bengali snacks such as puchka (pani puri) and kathi rolls from the numerous stalls lining the streets. The vibrant atmosphere, filled with the sounds of vendors and the chatter of students, creates an experience that is both lively and enriching. The streets are often bustling, making it advisable to visit during the day for the best experience. In addition to its literary and culinary offerings, College Street is also home to several educational institutions, including the prestigious University of Calcutta and the Presidency University. This proximity to such esteemed institutions adds to the intellectual vibrancy of the area, making it a great place for tourists to soak in the local culture and history. Whether you're a book lover, a foodie, or simply curious about Kolkata's rich heritage, College Street promises an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of this dynamic city.

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