Explore These Must-Visit Places In India For Book Lovers

For readers, travel is not just about sceneries or ancient landmarks; it is also about finding those places where books come alive through streets, festivals, libraries, and cultural centres. India, with its strong literary heritage and multiple languages, has some really fascinating destinations that find a home in the avid reader. 

From vibrant book markets to peaceful literary enclaves, these destinations in India honour the written word in creative and interactive ways. Whether you're searching for a hard-to-find edition or simply basking in the heritage of great authors, these destinations throughout India offer a fulfilling experience for every book lover.

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Delhi:

The capital city of India, Delhi, is a dynamic literary centre that appeals to book enthusiasts with its historic landmarks and vibrant book scene. The Sunday book market at Darya Ganj is a destination not to miss, providing a diverse array of books in every genre, from academic texts to rare collections. The city is home to major literary organisations such as the National Book Trust and literary events such as the World Book Fair, which attracts readers and writers.

Kolkata:

Often referred to as the cultural capital of India, Kolkata is a paradise for book lovers, with college streets and its centre – Asia's largest book market and the world's largest secondhand book market. College Street, the iconic street named as Boi Para, has more than 2000 bookstalls dealing in anything from rare first editions to contemporary bestsellers at bargain prices. The region is bordered by some of the most renowned institutions, such as the University of Calcutta, which contributes to its intellectual allure.

Jaipur:

Jaipur, aside from its royal past, is a literary hub renowned for hosting the annual Jaipur Literature Festival, which is one of the largest and most prestigious festivals of literature in the world. The city comes alive every January as a platform for celebrated writers, lively discussions, and more. The rich oral traditions and warm hospitality of this place make it an ideal combination of culture and brains for book lovers.

Shanti Niketan:

Established by the recipient of the Nobel Prize, Rabindranath Tagore, Shantiniketan in West Bengal provides a serene retreat with a mix of art, literature, and learning. The central focus is Visva-Bharti University, where Tagore's dream of open learning and cultural coexistence comes alive in numerous literary and artistic activities. Travellers may visit the Rabindra Bhavan Museum to view Tagore's manuscripts, paintings, and personal items.

Mysore:

The natural splendour of Karnataka, Mysore, is rich in literary traditions and scholarly climate. The Mysore Literary Association, founded as far back as 1915, and the Oriental Research Institute hold numbers of old books and manuscripts in their possession. The University of Mysore Library is a second repository of reading delights and research opportunities. Famous for Kannada literary outputs and sparking poetry recitals, Mysore is a spiritual getaway for all who are passionate about books and cultures. 

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