Are you someone who is pleased by the smell of old books? Does the sound of flipping pages tickle your
gut with excitement? And do you get an urge to just stop everything and indulge in reading when you
see a pile of books? If yes, then you, my friend, are an avid reader for whom reading is just as necessary
as breathing. We understand the power books hold and how they can transport you to places, just like
magic. Therefore, we thought of bringing you a list of literary landmarks in India that are no less than a
paradise for book lovers like you. So, let’s jump right in.
The Kipling Bungalow, Mumbai
Tucked in the lap of the lush green campus of Sir J.J. Institute of Applied Art, this historic bungalow is
adjacent to where the celebrated writer, Rudyard Kipling was born in 1865. Even though this isn’t a
library or a reading room, it definitely is worth visiting if you enjoy the works of Kipling. We bet, it will be
like living a part of history and getting an insight into the life of the idol and inspiration of countless
literati.
College Street, Kolkata
A sanctum for bookworms, this is the world’s largest market for second-hand books is surely one of the most interesting literary landmarks of India. Shopping at College street is an experience in itself. The adrenaline rush while digging for the books you desire and the
ecstasy when your find it, simply cannot be put into words. Here, you can spot the literature enthusiasts
of the city and also chat with fellow book lovers. Another exciting thing about College Street is that
locals claim there is no book in existence that you cannot find here.
Sunday Kitab Bazaar, Delhi
Daryagunj and its publishing houses have made the dreams of countless authors come true. The place is
home to publishing houses such as Oxford University Press and S. Chand Co. so you can imagine the
demographic the place caters to. A hub for readers, Daryagunj makes every Sunday the most exciting
day of the week for readers for completely different reasons than the masses. The Sunday Kitab Bazaar
is where books are sold at the cost of kilos. If you have a keen eye, you can cut yourself quite a deal
here.
Literati, Goa
A quaint Portuguese-styled bungalow which is a rather unconventional take on libraries and book cafes,
Literati will give you the cozy comfort of your grandma’s home. As you step in, you will be enchanted
by the mystical aroma of books and freshly-brewed coffee. In no time you will find yourself lost in the
piles of books and let your imagination take over. The homely vibe of the place will make you want to
stay in forever.
Bookcafe Ssong, Pune
Tucked away from the chaotic streets of Pune, this modern book cafe will entice you with its eclectic
book collection and cozy interiors. The place will make you leave all your stress at the door and step into
a room full of books that can take you to a happy place within seconds. Attached to a cafe, you can
spend as long as you want in here. Bookcafe Ssong allows you to simply unwind on any hectic weekday
and takes you on an alluring journey before you have to get back to your regular life.
This was our shortlist of literary landmarks of India. Share your experiences if you have visited any of
these places or let us know about a place that should have been on the list, in the comments.
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