Nilkhet Book Market Dhaka
Dhaka's sprawling Nilkhet Book Market: a vibrant hub for new & used books at unbeatable prices. A treasure trove for students & bibliophiles!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier browsing
Nilkhet Book Market Dhaka
Best Time
Fewer crowds, easier browsing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dhaka's sprawling Nilkhet Book Market: a vibrant hub for new & used books at unbeatable prices. A treasure trove for students & bibliophiles!
"This place is a paradise for book lovers, offering knockoff versions of every type of book imaginable."
💰 Haggle Like a Pro
Don't be shy to negotiate prices; it's expected and part of the fun! Aim for a price that feels fair to both you and the seller.
📚 Bring Your Wishlist
Have a list of books you're looking for? Vendors are often happy to help you track them down.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Used Book Stalls
Magazine Goli
Discover hidden literary gems and rare finds at unbelievably low prices. A true paradise for book lovers seeking unique reads.
Textbook Haven
Main Market Area
Students flock here for academic books, both new and used, at budget-friendly rates. Essential for any academic pursuit in Dhaka.
Literary Exploration
Various Bookshops
Browse through a vast collection of novels, self-help, and collectible books. You might find your next favorite read here!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Bargain Hunter's Paradise
Navigating the Bookish Chaos
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
💰 Haggle Like a Pro
Don't be shy to negotiate prices; it's expected and part of the fun! Aim for a price that feels fair to both you and the seller.
📚 Bring Your Wishlist
Have a list of books you're looking for? Vendors are often happy to help you track them down.
🚶♀️ Explore Magazine Goli
This section is known for its incredible selection of used and older books. A must-visit for collectors!
☕ Take a Break
Grab a cup of tea or a snack from nearby street vendors to refuel during your book hunt.
Tips
from all over the internet
💰 Haggle Like a Pro
Don't be shy to negotiate prices; it's expected and part of the fun! Aim for a price that feels fair to both you and the seller.
📚 Bring Your Wishlist
Have a list of books you're looking for? Vendors are often happy to help you track them down.
🚶♀️ Explore Magazine Goli
This section is known for its incredible selection of used and older books. A must-visit for collectors!
☕ Take a Break
Grab a cup of tea or a snack from nearby street vendors to refuel during your book hunt.
📸 Capture the Vibe
The market's vibrant atmosphere and endless books make for great photo opportunities.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Nilkhet Book Market is a vibrant and chaotic paradise for book lovers, offering an unparalleled selection of new and used books at incredibly low prices. Visitors rave about the affordability and the thrill of haggling, making it a must-visit for students and avid readers alike. While the bustling atmosphere can be overwhelming, the sheer variety and value make it a rewarding experience.
"One of the largest market for new and old books in Bangladesh, all kinds of books are available here at very low prices. If you want, you can sell your used books here and you will get all the books you need here.
If you buy the old ones, you will get them at a very low price. In addition to just books, there are many other types of shops here, including reading accessories photocopy barriers.
❤️❤️"
Mohammad Khokon
"This place is a paradise for book lovers, offering knockoff versions of every type of book imaginable. The best part? You can haggle to your heart’s content, making it a treasure trove for scoring cheap books. BEST place for budget-conscious readers!"
Rifat Rahman
"Near the new market Dhaka.Here you can find any books what you want. Too many peoples are always there. Such a busy area...."
Md Akash
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Nilkhet Book Market is conveniently located near Dhaka University. You can easily reach it by rickshaw, auto-rickshaw, or ride-sharing services like Uber or Pathao. It's a well-known landmark, so most drivers will know the way.
Yes, it is accessible by various public transport options. Buses that go towards Dhaka University or New Market will get you close. From there, it's a short walk or a quick rickshaw ride.
The market is a maze of narrow alleys filled with bookshops. It's best to explore on foot. Don't hesitate to ask shopkeepers for directions if you're looking for a specific section or book.
Parking can be challenging in this busy area. It's advisable to use ride-sharing services or public transport to avoid parking hassles.
Yes, Nilkhet is a very famous and bustling area. Mentioning 'Dhaka University' or 'New Market' to your driver will usually get you there without issues.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there are no entry tickets required to visit Nilkhet Book Market. It's a public market, and you can freely browse the shops.
The market generally opens in the morning and stays open until late evening, typically around 8 PM or 9 PM. However, hours can vary slightly, especially for individual shops.
The market is usually open seven days a week. However, it's always a good idea to check if there are any public holidays that might affect operating hours.
Yes, you can sell your used books at Nilkhet. Many vendors are interested in buying second-hand books, especially textbooks and popular titles.
While deals can be found anytime, visiting during weekday mornings or late afternoons might offer a good balance between fewer crowds and active bargaining.
🎫 📚 Onsite Experience
You can find almost every kind of book imaginable: textbooks, academic resources, novels, poetry, self-help, children's books, and even rare collectibles. Both new and used copies are widely available.
Absolutely! Haggling is a significant part of the experience. Vendors expect you to negotiate, and you can often get books at much lower prices than the initial quote.
Besides books, you can find related items like notebooks, pens, stationery, bookmarks, and sometimes even study lamps or reading glasses.
Yes, it's an excellent place for students. You can find textbooks for almost any subject at significantly lower prices than new bookstores, especially used copies.
The atmosphere is lively, bustling, and can be quite chaotic. It's a vibrant hub of activity with people browsing, vendors calling out, and a general buzz of literary enthusiasm.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
While the market primarily focuses on books, you'll find numerous street food vendors selling snacks, tea, and local delicacies right outside and within the market alleys.
Expect a variety of affordable street food options, including tea, coffee, local snacks, and sometimes small eateries offering quick meals.
Yes, the areas around Dhaka University and New Market, which are adjacent to Nilkhet, offer a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and food courts catering to different tastes and budgets.
As with any street food, it's advisable to choose vendors that appear clean and have high turnover. Many locals enjoy the street food without issues.
While many street foods are vegetarian-friendly, formal restaurants nearby will offer a broader selection of vegetarian dishes.
📸 📸 Photography
Absolutely! The market's vibrant atmosphere, endless rows of books, and the interactions between vendors and customers offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
Focus on the stacks of books, the expressive faces of vendors, the bustling alleys, and the unique textures of old books. Capturing the haggling process can also be very dynamic.
Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, it's always polite to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of individuals, especially vendors.
Late afternoons can offer beautiful warm light filtering through the market. Early mornings might provide a quieter, more atmospheric scene.
A versatile lens like a 35mm or 50mm prime lens is great for capturing details and people. A wider lens can help with the overall market scenes.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Keep a close eye on children in the crowded alleys. Consider focusing on specific sections like children's literature or educational books to make the visit more targeted and less overwhelming. The experience can be a great way to instill a love for reading in a unique setting.
💰 Budget Travelers
Beyond books, you can find affordable stationery and other reading accessories. The surrounding street food scene also offers delicious and cheap eats, making it a complete budget-friendly experience. Plan to spend a few hours here, and you'll leave with great finds and a lighter wallet.
📚 Avid Readers & Bookworms
Engage with the knowledgeable booksellers, who can often offer recommendations or help you track down specific editions. The thrill of finding a rare book at a bargain price is a unique joy that Nilkhet offers in abundance. It's a place to feed your passion for reading and expand your personal library significantly.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Bargaining in Nilkhet
Many visitors find the bargaining process exhilarating, turning a simple book purchase into an engaging interaction. It's a skill that improves with practice, and by the end of your visit, you might just become a seasoned negotiator. The satisfaction of securing a great deal on a coveted book is immense.
Key takeaway: Approach bargaining with a smile and a respectful attitude. It's a dance of negotiation, not a confrontation. The more you practice, the better you'll become at securing those fantastic book deals.
Discovering Hidden Gems: Used Books in Nilkhet
Many Redditors highlight the joy of stumbling upon unexpected literary gems here. You can find everything from classic literature and historical texts to academic references and niche publications. The condition of used books can vary, so it's wise to inspect them carefully before purchasing. However, even with minor wear and tear, the prices are often a fraction of what you'd pay for new copies.
Pro-tip: Take your time exploring Magazine Goli. Don't rush, and be prepared to dig through piles. The most rewarding finds often come to those who are patient and persistent.
Nilkhet for Students: A Budget-Friendly Study Hub
Many students report saving substantial amounts of money by buying their required reading materials here. You can often find the exact editions needed for your courses, and the option to sell back your old textbooks at the end of the semester further enhances its cost-effectiveness. The market's proximity to Dhaka University also makes it incredibly convenient for university students.
Student Essential: Always check for used copies first to maximize savings. If you can't find a specific textbook, ask the vendors; they often have a network to source hard-to-find titles.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit