National Library of India
The National Library of India is the largest library in the country by volume and an institution of national importance. It is housed in the majestic Belvedere Estate in Alipore, which was once the official residence of the Lieutenant Governor of Bengal and even the Viceroy of India. The library's origins date back to the Calcutta Public Library formed in 1836. After independence, it was renamed and moved to its current location. The library holds a staggering collection of over 2.2 million books, manuscripts, and maps. It is a mandatory recipient of every book published in India under the Delivery of Books Act. The sprawling 30-acre campus is a lush green oasis in the heart of the city, featuring old banyan trees and beautifully manicured gardens. The main building, Belvedere House, is a fine example of Italian Renaissance architecture. Inside, the massive reading rooms, high ceilings, and endless rows of wooden bookshelves create an atmosphere of intellectual grandeur. The library also houses rare collections in various Indian and foreign languages. In recent years, it has undergone modernization with digital archives and a new Bhasha Bhavan building. For scholars and students, it is a sanctuary for research. For the casual visitor, the historic architecture and the serene grounds offer a peaceful retreat. The library is also famous for the "hidden chamber" discovered by the ASI in 2010, a room with no doors or windows that fueled many local legends and ghost stories.
General information
-
Ideal Duration:
3 HoursPlace Type:
Library & Heritage SiteEntry Fees:
Entry is Free for visitors to walk the grounds. However, to access the reading rooms and borrow books, one must apply for a Reader's Pass (Temporary or Permanent), which requires an ID proof and a photograph. ...Entry is Free for visitors to walk the grounds. However, to access the reading rooms and borrow books, one must apply for a Reader's Pass (Temporary or Permanent), which requires an ID proof and a photograph.Timing:
Regular Timings: Weekdays 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM; Weekends 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Morning (10:00 AM) for a fresh and quiet experience. ...Regular Timings: Weekdays 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM; Weekends 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM.
Ideal Visit Time: Morning (10:00 AM) for a fresh and quiet experience.Special Events:
The library celebrates National Library Week in November with seminars and exhibitions. International Book Day and Independence Day are marked with special displays of patriotic literature and historical documents. ...The library celebrates National Library Week in November with seminars and exhibitions. International Book Day and Independence Day are marked with special displays of patriotic literature and historical documents.Best Photo Spots:
Main Entrance of Belvedere House: The grand stairs and white columns are perfect for architectural shots.
The Long Driveway: Lined with trees, it offers a deep perspective.
Bhasha Bhavan Facade: For a mix o...Main Entrance of Belvedere House: The grand stairs and white columns are perfect for architectural shots.
The Long Driveway: Lined with trees, it offers a deep perspective.
Bhasha Bhavan Facade: For a mix of modern and traditional aesthetic.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
-
Reading: Enroll for a temporary membership to sit in the historic reading rooms.
Architecture Tour: Walk around the Belvedere House to admire the colonial architecture.
Garden Stroll: Enjoy the 30-acre lush campus and the rare trees.
Research: Access the vast archives of Indian newspapers and government gazettes.
Visit Bhasha Bhavan: Explore the modern wing dedicated to Indian languages.
Photography: Take photos of the stunning exterior and the expansive lawns.
Ghost Hunting (Curiosity): Explore the surroundings of the "haunted" corridors.
Exhibitions: Check for occasional book fairs or literary exhibitions.
Read More
Information
-
Why Famous:
It is famous for being the Largest Library in India. It is a major research center for historians and littérateurs. The Belvedere Estate itself is a historical landmark associated with figures like Warren Hastings. It is also locally "famous" for being one of the most haunted places in Kolkata,...It is famous for being the Largest Library in India. It is a major research center for historians and littérateurs. The Belvedere Estate itself is a historical landmark associated with figures like Warren Hastings. It is also locally "famous" for being one of the most haunted places in Kolkata, with legends about the footsteps of the Governor's wife being heard in the corridors. -
Architecture:
The Belvedere House is built in the Italian Renaissance style, characterized by its symmetrical facade, grand staircases, and arched windows. It features wide verandas and Ionic columns.
Dimensions: The library is spread across 30 acres. The main reading room can...The Belvedere House is built in the Italian Renaissance style, characterized by its symmetrical facade, grand staircases, and arched windows. It features wide verandas and Ionic columns.
Dimensions: The library is spread across 30 acres. The main reading room can accommodate over 500 readers. The newer Bhasha Bhavan is a modern addition that complements the historic estate. The estate's landscape is as much a part of its architecture as the buildings, with vast lawns and old-world stone pathways. -
How To Reach:
By Air: 22 km from Kolkata Airport.
By Train: 10 km from Howrah Station.
By Road: Located in Alipore, well-connected by bus.
By Local Transport: Nearest Metro is Jatin Das ... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Alipore Zoo (0. 5 km), 2. Victoria Memorial (2. 5 km), 3. Horticulture Garden (0. 3 km), 4. Birla Planetarium (2. 8 km), 5. St. Paul's Cathedral (2. 6 km), 6. Kalighat Temple (2. 5 km), 7. Race Course (2 km), 8. Maidan (2. 5 km), 9. South Park Cemetery (4 km), 10. Taj Bengal (0. 5 km).
Tourism Tips
-
Health & Safety: Carry your own water; the campus is large.
Packing: Carry a valid ID card for entry.
Accommodation: Hotels in Alipore or Bhowanipore are nearby.
Other: Ma...
Reviews
National Library of India Tourism:-
Information about New and Updated Locations(575+) of West Bengal Has Been Added :-
Card subtitle
Note:-
Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.
All information and pictures will be updated soon, please keep visiting.
Near Places
Academy of Fine Arts
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Acharya Jagadish Chandra Bose Indian Botanic Garden
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Alipore Zoological Garden
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Aquatica Water Park
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Babu Ghat
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Belilious Park
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Belur Math
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Birla Academy of Art & Culture
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Birla Industrial & Technological Museum
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewhere
Birla Mandir
Some quick example text to build on the card title and make up the bulk of the card's content.
Go somewherein Other Cities