Home to some of India's literary giants, it is no surprise that there is a street devoted to books in the 'intellectual' city of Kolkata. Known as "boi para" in Bengali, which translates to "colony of books," College Street is every book lover's paradise. College Street is a place for old favourites and rare finds.
Even though you may find many new reads here, the street and shops have stood the test of time. This 900 m stretch in central Kolkata is also home to many renowned Bengali publishing houses, like Rupa & Co., Ananda Publishers, Dey's Publishing, and more.
Whether you want your next fiction read or a GMAT-prep book, this is the place to find it. From makeshift stalls spilling over with books to square-sized shops stacked next to each other, these small establishments have satisfied Kolkata's literary bugs for ages.
If you love yellow-stained pages of second-hand books, then at College Street, you will be happy to find several sold at throwaway prices.
The streets may be dedicated to books, but food still finds its way, specially in Kolkata. You will find many kiosks selling authentic Bengali breakfast of luchi (like puri) and aloo'r torkari (aloo sabzi) and in the evenings, chaa and telebhaja (fritters).
The area is also home to some iconic haunts. The legendary Indian Coffee House here is a favourite among the intellectuals of Kolkata. Bengal is famous for its Adda sessions, loud and animated debates on a myriad topics all in the spirit of camaraderie. A trip to the area is incomplete without stopping here for a sip of coffee, which is still sold for just Rs 22
The 205-year-old Presidency College also represents Kolkata's history well. Many iconic leaders like Subhash Chandra Bose, revolutionaries like Rabindranath Tagore, and thinkers like Amartya Sen, among many others, have walked the corridors as students.
College Street in Kolkata is not just a road lined with books; it is a vibrant cultural artery of the city, pulsating with intellectual energy and historical significance. This iconic location offers a unique blend of academic spirit and commercial bustle, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to capture the essence of Kolkata.
Information: The Street is closed on Sundays and remains open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. every other day.
Getting There: Located on Mahatma Gandhi Road, College Street is about 4 km from Howrah Station, It is accessible by the North-South line of the Metro.