International Kolkata Book Fair 2026: A Bibliophile's Dream with Simplified Transport
The 2026 International Kolkata Book Fair is poised to be a major cultural event, transforming Boimela Prangan in Salt Lake into a hub for book lovers. This edition features Argentina as the focal theme country, commemorating the 100-year legacy of Rabindranath Tagore and Victoria Ocampo, adding a rich historical and literary dimension to the festivities. The fair runs from January 22 to February 3, with daily hours from 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM, offering ample time for visitors to explore.
Seamless Metro Connectivity for Easy Access
Reaching the fair has never been easier, thanks to the newly enhanced Metro services. The Green Line (Line 2) now operates directly from Howrah Maidan to Salt Lake Sector V without requiring any line changes, streamlining the journey for attendees. Key stations to consider include:
- Karunamoyee Metro Station: This is the best option for those heading to Gates 8 and 9, as it is just a 2-minute walk away.
- Central Park Metro Station: Ideal for visitors aiming for Gates 1 and 2, located approximately 0.6 km from the fairground.
To further enhance convenience, special Metro services have been introduced:
- Extended hours: The last Metro service departs around 10:00 PM, allowing for extended fair visits.
- Skip the queue: A special Metro ticket booth is available inside the fairground between Gates 1 and 2, where tickets can be booked via UPI for a hassle-free experience.
- Increased frequency: During peak hours, trains run at 12-minute intervals to accommodate the expected crowds.
Surface Transport and App-Cab Options
For those preferring surface transport, the West Bengal Transport Corporation (WBTC) has arranged special bus services from Karunamoyee Terminus to major points across Kolkata, including Howrah, Sealdah, Barrackpore, Barasat, Garia, and Santragachi. Additionally, special AC buses such as VS12 (Santragachi) and AC59 (Howrah Station) are available for a comfortable ride. Visitors can track these services in real-time by following Kolkata bus-o-pedia on Facebook or Instagram.
If private rides are preferred, dedicated app-cab kiosks are situated just outside Gate Number 1, featuring services like Ola, Uber, Rapido, and Yatri Sathi. For any navigation or safety queries, a special assistance booth is located near Gate Number 2, ensuring a smooth and secure experience for all attendees.
Celebrating Literary Heritage
This year's fair not only simplifies transport but also honors a significant literary milestone. The focus on Argentina as the theme country highlights the enduring connection between Tagore and Ocampo, whose collaboration began a century ago. This adds an educational and inspirational layer to the event, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of literature and culture alike.
