The Saraswathi Mahal Library is one of the oldest functioning libraries in Asia, established in the 16th century by the Nayaka rulers and substantially expanded by the Maratha king Serfoji II in the early 19th century. The main collection holds around 49,000 manuscripts on palm leaves and paper, covering literature, medicine, music, astronomy, and philosophy in Tamil, Sanskrit, Telugu, and Marathi. The library's manuscript conservation programme is still active.
Visitors see a small exhibition of selected manuscripts and printed books, including some rare illustrated volumes that Serfoji II acquired from European contacts. The display is modest but the context is striking — this collection was being catalogued and cared for in the 1810s at a time when the British were just beginning to notice that India had a serious literary tradition. A printed catalogue of the holdings runs to multiple volumes and is available in the library; serious researchers can arrange access to the full collection.
The library occupies part of the Royal Palace complex and is included in the combined palace ticket. Allow 45 minutes.