Top Bookstores in Kolkata

Kolkata has always been more than just a city; it’s a living library. The narrow bylanes of College Street where the scent of old paper fills the air or the modern stores stocking the latest bestsellers, bookstores in Kolkata are as much a part of the city’s soul as its trams and mishti doi.

Here, books are not just bought and sold. They are discussed over tea, argued about in coffee houses, and passed down like family heirlooms. College Street’s Boi Para is the largest second-hand book market in India and an institution in itself. Beyond the classics, Kolkata is home to charming indie stores, world-class literary chains, and neighbourhood gems where you can spend hours exploring without noticing the time slip by.

Whether you’re an avid reader, a casual book-buyer, or simply looking for a quiet escape, the bookstores in Kolkata have something to offer. Some specialise in Bengali literature, others in rare academic finds, while a few are all about creating spaces where books meet art, coffee, and community.

If you’re in Kolkata or planning a visit, you can’t leave without walking through its book-lined streets and visiting these iconic spots. It’s not just shopping but experiencing Kolkata in its truest form.

Handpicked List of the Top Bookstores in Kolkata

Bookstore	Address	Google Maps Link
Oxford Bookstore	2nd Floor, BLOCK-C, Apeejay House, 15, Park St, Taltala, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016	View on Map
Bahrisons Booksellers Kolkata	31 Chowringhee Road, Park St, Kolkata, West Bengal 700016	View on Map
Storyteller Bookstore	171M, Picnic Garden Rd, near VIP Bazar Metro Station, opposite Shimla Hotel, VIP Bazar, Amrabati, Kasba, Kolkata, West Bengal 700039	View on Map
Book Land	College St, Calcutta University, College Square, Kolkata, West Bengal 700073	View on Map
Techno World	YMCA Building, 90/6A, Mahatma Gandhi Rd, opp. Grace Cinema, Calcutta University, College Street, Kolkata, West Bengal 700007	View on Map
Read Bengali Book Store	42A, Sardar Shankar Rd, Lake Market, Kalighat, Kolkata, West Bengal 700029	View on Map
Earthcare Bookstore	10, Middleton St, near Maidan, Park Street area, Kolkata, West Bengal 700071	View on Map
Starmark	375, Prince Anwar Shah Rd, South City Complex, Jadavpur, Kolkata, West Bengal 700068	View on Map
Crossword – South City Mall	South City Mall, 375, Prince Anwar Shah Rd, opp. Jodhpur Park, South City Complex, Jadavpur, Kolkata, West Bengal 700068	View on Map
Seagull Books	36c, Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rd, near Jai Hind Banquet, Patuapara, Jatin Das Park, Bhowanipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700025	View on Map

Best Areas for Book Shopping in Kolkata

If you want to immerse yourself in Kolkata’s book culture, the following areas stand out:

College Street (Boi Para)

It is the beating heart of Kolkata’s literary scene famous for second-hand treasures and rare academic books.

Park Street

This street is known for its iconic Oxford Bookstore and other literary cafes.

South City Mall area

This is Ideal for readers who prefer chain bookstores with organised shelves and air-conditioned comfort.

Lake Market & Kalighat

This area is suitable for browsing Bengali literature and independent stores.

Tips to Visit Bookstores in Kolkata

While big stores accept cards and UPI, smaller shops in College Street may still prefer cash.
Bargaining is common but should be respectful, especially in second-hand markets.
Ask for recommendations. Many store owners are seasoned readers who can suggest hidden gems.
Set aside time to visit bookstores in Kolkata as browsing can take longer than you expect.

FAQs

Which is the most famous bookstore in Kolkata?

Oxford Bookstore and College Street’s stalls are among the most iconic.

Where can I find Bengali literature in Kolkata?

Read Bengali Book Store, College Street shops, and many small stalls across the city have excellent collections.

Is bargaining possible in Kolkata’s bookstores?

Yes, polite bargaining is normal in second-hand and street stalls.

Which area in Kolkata has the largest number of bookstores?

College Street (Boi Para) is the largest concentration of bookstores in the city.

Are there bookstores with cafes in Kolkata?

Yes, Oxford Bookstore is known for its Cha Bar café.

Can I sell my old books in Kolkata?

Many second-hand bookshops in College Street buy used books.

Sell Your Old Books with BookMandee

If your shelves are overflowing, BookMandee can make it easy to sell your old books online and give them a new home. Whether it’s novels, textbooks, or rare finds, list them on BookMandee and connect with buyers across India from the comfort of your home.

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Disclaimer

Information in this article is based on publicly available sources and store listings. Readers are advised to verify details (such as opening hours, etc.) before visiting.