Kolkata International Book Fair
Asia's Largest Book Fair & Literary Festival
Immerse yourself in a paradise for book lovers at the Kolkata International Book Fair, the world's largest non-trade book fair, attracting millions of visitors and publishers from around the globe.
Late January - Early February
Jan 18 (approx)
Inauguration Ceremony
12-14 Days
Open to Public
📅
When
End of Jan to Early Feb
📍
Where
Central Park Mela Ground Salt Lake, Kolkata
📚
What
Book Launches, Seminars Literary Discussions
🌍
Theme Country
A different country is featured each year
🗣️
Meet Authors
Opportunities to interact with famous authors
About the Book Fair
A Celebration of Literature and Ideas
The Kolkata International Book Fair, popularly known as 'Boi Mela', is not just a fair but a festival that celebrates the deep love Bengalis have for literature, art, and intellectual discourse. It is the most attended book fair in the world, a vibrant confluence of readers, writers, publishers, and artists.
Unlike other major book fairs, its focus is on the general public rather than trade. The sprawling fairground is packed with stalls from Indian and international publishers, alongside a dedicated space for 'Little Magazines' which are a hallmark of Bengal's literary culture. The air buzzes with excitement, intellectual conversations, and the smell of new books.
Each year, a specific country is chosen as the focal theme, and its pavilion becomes a major attraction, showcasing its literature and culture. The fair also hosts numerous seminars, book launches, and panel discussions, making it a dynamic hub of ideas.
Fair Highlights
What to Experience at the Boi Mela
📚
Vast Book Collection
An unparalleled variety of books from publishers across India and the world.
✒️
Author Signings
Meet your favorite authors and get your books signed at various publisher stalls.
🎤
Literary Discussions
Engaging seminars and panel discussions on a wide range of literary and social topics.
🌍
Focal Theme Pavilion
Explore the literature and culture of the year's featured theme country.
📖
Little Magazine Stalls
Discover new and experimental writing from Bengal's vibrant independent publishing scene.
🍔
Food Court
A massive food court offering a variety of cuisines to refuel during your visit.
A Day at the Fair
How to Make the Most of Your Visit
Afternoon (2 PM - 5 PM)
Afternoon (2 PM - 5 PM)
Explore & Browse
Visit during the early hours to browse comfortably before the evening rush. Explore the international and large publisher stalls.
Evening (5 PM - 7 PM)
Evening (5 PM - 7 PM)
Attend a Session
Check the schedule for book launches or panel discussions featuring authors you admire.
Night (7 PM - 9 PM)
Night (7 PM - 9 PM)
Soak in the Atmosphere
Experience the fair at its busiest. This is the best time for people-watching, discovering little magazines, and enjoying the food court.
Navigating the Fairground
Key Areas to Visit
Focal Theme Pavilion
Designated Zone
The main attraction, showcasing the literature, art, and culture of the guest country. Often beautifully designed.
Main Halls
Halls 1 & 2
Large halls housing the big national and international publishing houses with their latest releases and bestsellers.
Little Magazine Area
Dedicated Zone
The heart and soul of the fair for many literary enthusiasts. Discover hundreds of small, independent publications.
Cultural Aspects
More than Just Books
🎨
Art Exhibitions
🎶
Live Music
💬
Adda Sessions
Fair Foods
Fueling Your Literary Hunt
🍟
Fast Food
☕
Coffee & Tea
🥘
Local Delicacies
📋 Quick Planning Guide
- Event DatesLate Jan - Early Feb
- LocationCentral Park, Salt Lake
- Entry FeeMinimal entry fee applies
- Timings12 PM - 8 PM daily
🚌 Transportation Guide
- Metro RailNearest stations are Karunamoyee & Salt Lake Sector V
- Bus ServicesSpecial bus services are run during the fair
- Auto RickshawsReadily available from metro stations
💡 Essential Tips
- Visit on a weekday afternoon to avoid the heaviest crowds.
- Wear very comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot.
- Carry a large bag to hold your book purchases.
- Make a list of must-visit stalls beforehand to navigate efficiently.
- Use the metro (Karunamoyee or Salt Lake Sector V station) to avoid traffic.