Are you tired of shopping online but want new books to read? Do you miss browsing through bookshelves? Whether you’re looking for cheap second-hand books or pricey latest editions, Mumbai bookstores leave no room for disappointment. There’s something for every reader here. Magazines, children’s books, fiction, non-fiction, coffee table books- you will get it all. 

Here is a list of 6 places to check out in South Mumbai for quality reading:

1. FLORA FOUNTAIN

2. KITAB KHANA 

3. ASHISH BOOK STORE 

4. BARGAIN BOOK HUT 

5. BOOKS BY WEIGHT/ BUTTERFLY BOOKS 

6. CROSSWORD, KEMPS CORNER

1. FLORA FOUNTAIN 

All book hoarders, assemble! What if I told you you can get every book at half its original price? Unbelievable, right? Not when you visit the bustling lanes of Flora Fountain. While this is not an official bookstore, you will find almost all types of books on this street. Get a bottle of water and a couple of hours; you will be sure to find rare hidden gems at unbelievable prices. More so, you can return books after reading them at a very low cost. Academic books are also available. They mostly center around entrance exams and degree programs in India.  Beware of pirated copies though.

IDEAL FOR: Book hoarders. Great titles don’t get any cheaper than Flora Fountain. 

2. KITAB KHANA 

“If aesthetic was a bookstore, it would be Kitab Khana.” 

Situated in the bylanes of Fort, this bookstore is nothing less than magical. Their vast collection of books is bound to make every reader drool. Blending into the Victorian Gothic architecture of Mumbai, it is an Instagram-friendly, independent bookstore. When you enter the bookstore, you will see a carefully curated collection of the latest books and new editions. 

Confused about what to buy? Ask their staff. They are usually well-versed in the world of literature and have excellent recommendations. Kitab Khana also has regional literature and classics. This place is truly a storehouse of knowledge for every literature and art lover!

Kitab Khana also has a tiny café named Food for Thought, and rightfully so! After all, there is nothing more enticing than a good meal with great books.

What’s more? KitabKhana was recently featured in a Financial Times article, alongside some of the best bookshops in the world! 

IDEAL FOR: If you’re looking for a bookstore with a cozy vibe- Kitab Khana is your ultimate resort. Catch a corner and revel in their unique collection of books. 

3. ASHISH BOOK STORE 

If you’re looking for the best book deals in town, tread no more! Ashish Book Store at Fort has a section of bookshelves which are 100/- per book, all around the year. These bookshelves mostly feature famous titles and bestsellers, but a little scanning could score you some great gems. Best part? You get cheap books without any piracy issues and guaranteed discounted prices. Spanning almost all genres, this bookstore is a go-to for the best deals in town. 

Visit their Instagram page to stay updated about book fairs by Ashish Book Centre.

IDEAL FOR: People who need specific books at a discounted price. 

4. BARGAIN BOOK HUT 

As the name suggests, Bargain Book Hut is a bibliophile’s dream come true. With discounts all around the year, Bargain Book Hut has a collection of books ranging from art to sports to lifestyle. They also have a stationary section. That makes Bargain Book Hut the perfect place to go to for gifting your loved ones. Cute little diaries and fancy illustrated children’s books- Bargain Book Hut is the budget bookstore that works for all! It’s also surrounded by cafes- which makes for a perfect outing.

IDEAL FOR: Gifting, buying crosswords or diaries. 

5. BOOKS BY WEIGHT/ BUTTERFLY BOOKS 

Books. Literally. By. Their. Weight. Yes, you read it right! Booksbyweight is the best platform for book hoarders. If you’re looking for cheap books, this should be a space you should constantly look out for. Rows and rows of books- premium fiction, general fiction, non-fiction, encyclopedias, dictionaries…you name it! This book fair is not held throughout the year but happens roughly every 3 months. Usually, they have their exhibition at Sunderbai Hall, Churchgate, or Fabiani’s Art Gallery, Vile Parle.

You can visit their Facebook page or contact this number to get updates. 

IDEAL FOR: Hoarding second-hand books and filling up your bookshelves!

CROSSWORD, KEMPS CORNER

Crossword isn’t just a name in the bookstore industry, it’s a vibe. You’ll find the finest collection of books here, along with an ambience that makes time fly. Hailed by many as a childhood favorite,  That’s why Crossword is hailed as a childhood favorite – a place where one can casually sit by and read for hours. 

Crossword’s USP, however, would be the events they have all year round. From Dan Brown to Raj Shamani, Yuval Noah Harari to Chitra Banerjee Divakaruni, Crossword brings authors that you should certainly keep an eye out for. 

IDEAL FOR: Buying fiction and non-fiction books at MRP, sitting and reading 

That feeling when you walk into a bookstore is pretty much indescribable. There are a million stories hidden in these bookstores, beckoning you to discover them. So what are you waiting for? Go to the bookstore near you and immerse yourself in these gems of South Mumbai.