The Literary Haven of College Street: A Bibliophile's Dream
Explore the enchanting College Street in Kolkata, the world's largest second-hand book market, where literary treasures await every book lover.
Nestled in the heart of Kolkata, College Street is a captivating destination for book lovers, boasting a myriad of second-hand bookstores that offer a treasure trove of literary gems. From classic literature to rare finds, this iconic street is a paradise for tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the world of books.
A brief summary to College Street Old Book Stores
- College St, Kolkata, Lalbajar, Bowbazar, West Bengal, 700073, IN
- Monday 10 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-7 pm
- Thursday 10 am-7 pm
- Friday 10 am-7 pm
- Saturday 10 am-7 pm
- Sunday 10 am-7 pm
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds and have a more leisurely experience.
- Don't hesitate to bargain; it's a common practice in the book market.
- Take a guided tour if you're unfamiliar with the area to discover hidden gems.
- Bring cash, as many small vendors may not accept cards.
- Try local snacks at nearby food stalls to recharge during your book hunt.
Getting There
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Metro
If you're near a Metro station, head to the nearest station and take the East-West Metro line towards Salt Lake Sector V. Alight at the 'Esplanade' station. From Esplanade, exit the station and walk towards the bus terminus. You will see the iconic New Market area.
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Walking
From the New Market, walk towards Mahatma Gandhi Road, which is a busy street. Continue walking straight for about 10 minutes until you reach the crossing with College Street. You will see a lot of bookshops and stalls on your left.
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Bus
Once you reach Esplanade, you can also take a bus. Look for buses heading towards 'College Street' or 'Lalbazar'. Board the bus and ensure it has 'College Street' as one of its stops. The bus ride will take approximately 10-15 minutes.
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Auto Rickshaw
From Esplanade, you can take an auto rickshaw directly to College Street. Simply tell the driver 'College Street, Lalbazar'. The ride will take about 10 minutes depending on traffic.
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Cycle Rickshaw
If you prefer a more local experience, you can hire a cycle rickshaw from New Market or Esplanade. Tell the rickshaw puller to take you to College Street. It’s a short ride and will give you a chance to enjoy the local scenery.
Discover more about College Street Old Book Stores
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
David Hare Mausoleum
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College Square Park
0.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of College Square Park, a lush green retreat in Kolkata, perfect for relaxation and cultural exploration.
Howrah
0.2 km
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College Square Bengali War Memorial
0.2 km
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Toong On Church
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Rajbari
0.8 km
Explore Rajbari in Kolkata, a historical landmark that embodies the royal heritage and cultural richness of West Bengal.
Chand Surjo Jhulan Bari Bowbazar
1.0 km
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House Of Pandit Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
1.3 km
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Statue
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Metropolitan Building.
1.6 km
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J. L. Nehru Road Traffic Island Garden
1.6 km
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Esplanade Mansions
1.7 km
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Historical place
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প্যানিয়টি ফাউন্টেন
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Tour De Sunderbans
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Unmissable attractions to see
Shri Parshvanath Temple
0.2 km
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Indian Coffee House
0.3 km
Discover the rich heritage and vibrant coffee culture at Kolkata's iconic Indian Coffee House, a must-visit for every tourist.
college street
0.4 km
Discover Kolkata's literary heart at College Street, a vibrant hub of bookstores, cafes, and cultural richness that embodies the city's intellectual spirit.
Muhammad Ali Park
0.4 km
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I Love KOLKATA
0.5 km
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Quick-O-City
0.8 km
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Bauddha Dharmankur Sabha
0.8 km
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Nakhoda Masjid
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Bow Barracks
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Thanthania Kalibari
0.9 km
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Tirreti Bazaar
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Marble Palace
1.0 km
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Marble Palace Zoo
1.0 km
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High Mast Indian National Flag
1.0 km
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Beth El Synagogue
1.1 km
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Essential places to dine
Basanta Cabin
0.1 km
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Sufia Restaurant
0.8 km
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Big Phil's Masala Pot
0.9 km
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Sagar Restaurant
1.2 km
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Amber
1.3 km
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Aalishan
1.3 km
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Aalamir Restaurant
1.4 km
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Alfresco
1.5 km
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Chittoda's Suruchee Restaurant
1.5 km
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Aminia Restaurant
1.5 km
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Nizam's Restaurant
1.7 km
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Saima Restaurants
1.7 km
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UP & Bihar Restaurant Kolkata
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Aaheli
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Baan Thai
1.8 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shop
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Unique Gift House
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KOLKATA ONLINE
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Resham Shilpi
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Esplanade Street Market
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Binod Fashion
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ANIL STORES
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V-Mart - Kolkata-Esplanade
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Novelty Boutique
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New Market Kolkata
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Pumposh (Kashmir Shawl Emporium)
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Market Maidan
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Shopping place
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The Raymond Shop
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Gifts N Greetings
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Duke Restaurant And Bar
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Elfin Bar And Restaurant
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Swastik Bar
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Celebrate Bar
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vascular bar
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Ashoka Bar & Restaurant
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Paris Bar & Restaurant
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Titos Live Band
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Chowringhee Bar
1.8 km
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The princess Bar
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New Empire Bar And Restaurant
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Executive Lounge
2.3 km
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Gunjan Bar Subway Inn Restaurant
2.4 km
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Someplace Else, Kolkata, Park Street Area
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