Top Bookstores in Pune

Pune has long been celebrated as the ‘Oxford of the East’. It is a city where education, culture, and literature come together in perfect harmony. From the lanes of Appa Balwant Chowk known for book lovers to the modern book galleries tucked inside upscale neighbourhoods, the city offers a variety of spaces for readers to explore. 

Whether you’re on the hunt for rare Marathi literature, competitive exam guides, children’s storybooks, or the latest international bestsellers, bookstores in Pune have something for everyone.

In this guide, we’ve curated a list of some of the most popular bookstores in Pune. These spots are not just about buying books but experiencing Pune’s deep-rooted reading culture, meeting fellow bibliophiles and even enjoying a quiet corner with a cup of chai.

Let’s dive into the details of the top bookstores in Pune, including their locations and quick access links for directions.

Top Bookstores in Pune

Why Do Pune’s Bookstores Deserve Your Time?

Pune is one of those rare cities where books are a part of the city’s identity. Stroll through Appa Balwant Chowk, and you’ll witness rows upon rows of bookshops spilling titles onto the pavement, with sellers who can pull out an author’s work from memory alone. 

In neighbourhoods like Deccan Gymkhana and Kothrud, you’ll find boutique bookstores in Pune that feel more like community spaces where owners greet you by name and set aside books they know you’d love.

The city’s reading culture is fuelled by its universities, old educational institutions, and a population that values both regional literature and global perspectives. For instance, Marathi poetry collections, second-hand engineering textbooks, and brand-new Booker Prize winners can be found within walking distance of each other. This is what makes exploring Pune’s bookstores an experience in itself.

Insider Tips for Book-Hunting in Pune

• Don’t skip Appa Balwant Chowk. It’s a historic hotspot for affordable second-hand books and exam guides. Go early to avoid crowds.
• Chat with the shopkeepers. Many of them have been in the trade for decades and can recommend books you didn’t even know you were looking for.
• Look beyond the big names as smaller, independent stores often stock local authors and limited-edition prints.
• Pair your visit with a café stop. Areas like FC Road and Deccan have cosy coffee spots perfect for reading your new finds.

FAQs

Which area in Pune is best for finding multiple bookstores nearby?

Appa Balwant Chowk is the most famous, but Deccan Gymkhana, Camp, and Kothrud also have excellent stores.

Do Pune’s bookstores sell second-hand books?

They do, especially in Appa Balwant Chowk, where you’ll find affordable pre-owned titles and new releases.

Are Marathi books easily available in Pune?

Pune is one of the best cities in India to find Marathi literature, from classic works to modern writing.

Can I get academic or competitive exam books here?

Many stores specialise in educational books, particularly in areas near universities and coaching hubs.

Do any bookstores in Pune host author events or readings?

Some boutique stores and cultural centres occasionally hold such events, so it’s worth checking their social media pages.

Find and Share Books Online with BookMandee

If you’ve explored every corner of Pune’s book markets and still can’t find that one elusive title  or if your shelves are overflowing and you’re looking to pass on some books to fellow readers, BookMandee can bridge that gap. It’s an online space where you can buy or sell 2nd hand books directly to others across India.

Whether you’re a student in Kothrud selling last semester’s reference books, a parent in Camp looking to give away children’s storybooks, or a reader in Deccan hunting for a first-edition classic, BookMandee can make the process simple, quick, and cost-effective. It’s like taking Pune’s book-hunting experience and expanding it to a nationwide community of readers.

Explore More Cities with Amazing Bookstores

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• Chennai Bookstores
• Hyderabad Bookstores

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Disclaimer

The information about bookstores in Pune has been compiled from publicly available sources, store visits, and local inputs to ensure accuracy at the time of publishing. However, store timings, inventory, and services may change without prior notice. Readers are encouraged to contact the bookstores directly before planning a visit. BookMandee is an independent platform and is not affiliated with the listed bookstores unless explicitly mentioned.