Reading is a magical habit that bestows tranquility, imparts valuable life lessons, and invites you to explore the world at a profound level. Regardless of your preferred genre, books hold the power to offer insights and meanings that are unparalleled.
If you’re contemplating the idea of developing a reading habit or are already an avid reader on the lookout for nearby bookstores, you’re in luck. In this article, we have curated a list of the 8 most popular bookstores in Islamabad that are a must-visit for every book enthusiast.
These bookstores are a treasure trove of knowledge and imagination, promising a delightful experience with each turn of the page. From literary classics to contemporary masterpieces, these stores house a diverse collection that caters to every taste and curiosity.
So, whether you are a seasoned bibliophile or a newcomer to the world of books, these bookstores in Islamabad await your visit. Embark on a literary adventure like never before, and allow the magic of words to captivate your mind and soul. Let’s explore the wonders of these book havens, where the beauty of literature comes alive with each carefully chosen title and the promise of endless discoveries.
List of Best Bookstores in Islamabad
Saeed Book Bank
Saeed Book Bank is one of the largest and most renowned bookstores in Pakistan. Spanning an impressive 42,000 square feet and consisting of three floors, this bookstore houses an extensive collection of over 200,000 books. It has earned the reputation of being a “Readers Paradise” as praised by Arab News. Excitingly, Saeed Book Bank has plans to expand further and incorporate additional features such as a coffee shop, book talks, and a dedicated book launch area. In addition to books, the store offers a wide range of stationery, diaries, CDs, DVDs, and cassettes. Membership and home delivery services are available for added convenience. The store offers books across various genres including science, philosophy, literature, magazines, art, novels, politics, popular fiction, yearbooks, and dictionaries. Saeed Book Bank operates from 10 am to 11 pm daily and is located at Jinnah Super Market, F7 Markaz, opposite Beachtree. For inquiries, contact them at 051 2651656. They have received a rating of 4.4 stars on Google.
Oxford University Press
Oxford University Press, a department of the esteemed University of Oxford, has been operating in Pakistan since 1952. Their objective is to promote excellence in research and education by publishing materials of the highest standards. In Islamabad, the Oxford University Press offers a wide range of books covering various subjects such as science, literature, arts, politics, history, and more. Membership and home delivery services are available for convenience. The bookstore operates from Monday to Saturday, from 10 am to 10 pm, and remains closed on Sundays. Oxford University Press is located at G 7/2 Blue Area, Jinnah Ave, Shalimar Plaza, Islamabad. For inquiries, contact them at 051 2347264. They have received a rating of 4.4 stars on Google.
London Books Co
London Books in the serene and peaceful Kohsar Market, London Books Co is a haven for book lovers. In addition to a vast selection of books, the store offers refreshments, allowing readers to enjoy extended reading sessions without hunger interrupting their experience. London Books Co operates from Monday to Sunday, 10 am to 10 pm. You can find them at F-6/3, Kohsar Market, in Islamabad. For inquiries, contact them at 051 2823852. They have received a rating of 4.1 stars on Google.
Mr. Books
Mr. Books holds the distinction of being one of the oldest bookstores in Islamabad. Founded by Mohammad Yousuf, it has a rich history and aims to enlighten society through the availability of quality books. In addition to books, Mr. Books offers stationery, art supplies, and gifts. Home delivery service is provided for added convenience. The store features a diverse selection of books including those on politics, popular fiction, textbooks, novels, biographies, and more. Operating from 10 am to 10 pm daily, Mr. Books is situated at F-6 Markaz, Agha Khan Rd, Islamabad. For inquiries, contact them at 0313 6726657. They have received a rating of 4.3 stars on Google.
Kitab Ghar
Kitab Ghar is a charming bookstore located near the National Resource Library in Islamabad. Despite its small size, the store offers a wide variety of books to cater to different interests. Members of Kitab Ghar can enjoy discounts, sales, and exclusive perks. The store boasts a collection of both international and local books, providing options for all readers. Kitab Ghar offers membership and home delivery services for convenience. The available books range from biographies, literature, novels, and textbooks to subjects like history, cognitive science, politics, commerce, medicine, engineering, and religion. Operating from Monday to Saturday, 10:30 am to 9 pm, and on Sundays from 2 pm to 9 pm, Kitab Ghar is located at F-7 Markaz, behind the Shell petrol pump, near Silk Bank in Islamabad. For inquiries, contact them at 0312 5472298. They have received a rating of 3.5 stars on Google.
Vanguard Books
Vanguard Books is a treasure trove for book lovers, offering a diverse collection of books from various genres. While it may not be frequented by many, the store provides an isolated haven for those seeking new reading experiences. Vanguard Books specializes in genres such as political history, science, philosophy, and more. The store operates from Monday to Saturday, 9 am to 9 pm, and remains closed on Sundays. Vanguard Books is situated at F-6 Markaz in Islamabad. For inquiries, contact them at 051 2270317. They have received a rating of 3.8 stars on Google.
Old Books and Books 2
If you’re looking for old and new books at discounted prices, Old Books and Books 2 is the place to visit. The store offers a wide range of books, including those on history, novels, politics, and textbooks such as CSS books, GRE, SAT books, and more. Home delivery service is available from 9 am to 5 pm. Operating from Monday to Sunday, 11 am to 11 pm, with adjusted timings on Wednesdays from 9 am to 7 pm, Old Books and Books 2 is located at F-10 Markaz, Main Sumbal Rd, near Miraj Books, in the basement of Stylo Shoes Shop in Islamabad. For inquiries, contact them at 0321 5550361. They have received a rating of 4.2 stars on Google.
Old Books Collection Old Books Collection, founded by Malik Ejaz, has a rich history dating back to the 80s. Initially located in Jinnah Supermarket, it later shifted to its present location in 1994. The store offers a mix of new and old books, providing readers with affordable options. Whether you’re looking for classic novels, history books, science literature, children’s books, or books on politics, Old Books Collection has something to offer. Operating from Monday to Sunday, 11 am to 11 pm, Old Books Collection can be found in F-7 Markaz, in front of Burger Feast, in Islamabad. For inquiries, contact them at 051 2651040. They have received a rating of 4.4 stars on Google.
