A trove of literary treasures

Step into Higginbotham's, Chennai's literary mecca founded in 1844 by Abel Joshua Higginbotham's vision and love of literature. Boasting magnificent heavy oak doors, whitewashed brick walls, and stained-glass windows; its colonial charm will charm visitors into exploring all its amazing stories and history that have helped Higginbotham become India's oldest bookstore! Join us on an incredible journey as we uncover its incredible stories & history behind India's oldest bookstore!

Time travel through history

In 1844, Abel Joshua Higginbotham discovered vacant office space and unknowingly set in motion what would become one of America's great literary legacies. At 25 years old, little did he realise his venture would blossom into a network of branches and diverse businesses involved with printing and publishing.

Higginbotham's tale goes beyond its commercial success. Encouraged by his cousin, Higginbotham began attending services at Madras' Black Town Methodist chapel in 1840 where he encountered Wesleyan Methodist Mission-inspired worship services that inspired him deeply to open a store specialising in religious literature.

Higginbotham's quickly expanded their reach, publishing classic works of ancient Hindu law as well as other significant works like Mark Wilks' "Sketches of South India", Colonel Todd's Annals and Antiquities of Rajasthan and Francis Buchanan's Mysore Canara Malabar.

Trace the footsteps of history

Track History Traces the footsteps of history while discovering Higginbotham's historic treasure and exploring Chennai's surrounding beauty. Go back in time as you visit its many unique attractions that each hold their own special appeal.

Reach back into history at Chennai Fort, built by the British East India Company. Adorned with monuments like St Mary's Church, Clive House, Wellington Barracks and British Residency it provides a fascinating look into Chennai's past. Behold its grandeur of 16th-century San Thome Basilica; an exquisite church dedicated to one of Christ's apostles St Thomas that boasts rich history and exquisite architecture making it one of Chennai's treasures.

Unlock an incredible treasure of artefacts and timeless treasures at the Government Museum - it will open your eyes to various time periods of the city's heritage! Revel in the spiritual aura of Kapaleeswarar Temple - dedicated to Lord Shiva with intricate architecture and an intoxicating aura attracting visitors from far and wide! Pay your respects to renowned Tamil poet and philosopher Thiruvalluvar with Valluvar Kottam; his monument stands as an iconic landmark within city limits.

As you enjoy the nostalgic charm of Higginbotham's, let the allure of Chennai's history and cultural riches engulf you on an incredible journey. From Higginbotham's literary legacy to nearby wonders that dot its landscape, Chennai holds many exciting experiences just waiting to be experienced - embark on this amazing adventure and create memories that will remain with you forever.