In the heart of Mysore lies Devaraja Market, a vibrant labyrinth of sights, scents, and stories that has thrived for over a century. More than just a marketplace, it is a living, breathing testament to the city’s rich heritage, where every corner whispers tales of tradition and time-honored craftsmanship.
The air is perfumed with the sweet scent of Mysore jasmine, while stalls overflow with colorful spices, fresh produce, and exquisite handcrafted treasures. Wandering through its bustling lanes is like stepping into a bygone era, where history, culture, and commerce come together in a timeless symphony.
“Devaraja Market to be demolished,” screamed the headlines in a local Newspaper of Mysore. Apparently, the iconic building of the Devaraja Market of Mysore was weak, and the state Government was planning to raze heritage buildings with weak foundations to the ground and rebuild them. The Devaraja Market has been synonymous with the history, culture, and everyday life of Mysore for a couple of centuries.
Explore the iconic Devaraja Market in Mysore, a vibrant blend of heritage, culture, and history. Step in and experience its timeless charm!
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Devaraja Market Mysuru – Where Heritage, Culture, And Business Meet
Devaraja Market, located in Mysore, Karnataka, is a historic and bustling marketplace dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries under the Wodeyar dynasty. Known for its colonial-style architecture, it remains a hub for fresh produce, Mysore silk, sandalwood, spices, and flowers. The market’s vibrant atmosphere and traditional charm make it a must-visit destination for both locals and tourists. It reflects Mysore’s rich cultural and commercial heritage, preserving age-old trading practices. Despite modernization, the market retains its historic essence, and efforts continue to restore and protect this iconic symbol of Mysore’s economic and architectural legacy.
History of the Iconic Devaraja Market of Mysore
The history of the colourful Devaraja Market of Mysore can be traced back to 1828, when it operated as a weekly market during the reign of the Wodeyar dynasty. Initially it was a humble trading hub, and later evolved and expanded under Krishnaraja Wodeyar III to accommodate the growing commercial activities of the city.
By the early 1900s, the market became a structured shopping area, featuring colonial-style architecture with a long, symmetrical layout. It was named after Maharaja Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar (1659–1673) and served as the primary marketplace for locals and traders from surrounding regions.
Devaraja Market in Mysuru is famous for fresh produce, Mysore silk, sandalwood, spices, flowers, and traditional handicrafts, making it a cultural and commercial landmark. Despite modernization, the market retains its heritage charm, drawing visitors for an authentic Mysorean shopping experience.
Discussions on restoration vs. redevelopment continue, highlighting its importance in Mysore’s historical and architectural legacy. A stroll through the market even today is sure to take you back in time to an era of old-world charm and simple pleasures like haggling over a bunch of bananas or a heap of flowers.
A Walk Through The Iconic Devaraja Market Mysore
Walking through Devaraja Market in Mysore is a sensory delight, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich heritage and vibrant culture. As you step inside this centuries-old marketplace, the air is filled with the fragrance of fresh flowers, aromatic spices, and sandalwood. The market, built during the Wodeyar dynasty, has stood the test of time, remaining a bustling hub of trade and tradition.
After a satisfying breakfast of Masala Dosas at the legendary Old Original Vinayaka Mylari Hotel, we stood in front of the historic Devaraja Market, Mysuru. We were swept away in waves of nostalgia that took us back in time. It was after decades that we were about to stroll through the Devaraja Market of Mysore as part of the Discover Mysuru programme organized by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, Bengaluru Office.
The historic Chikkagadiyara, also known as Dufferin Tower, another heritage landmark of Mysore, stood at one end of the Devaraja Market. The blue sky had suddenly undergone a grey transformation, and the Chikkagadiyara assumed a surreal hue against the backdrop of the sky. It seemed to watch us as we walked past towards the entrance to the Devaraja Market, just like how it must have watched our fathers and grandfathers going inside the Devaraja Market decades ago.
Before entering the market, we made our way to a simple shop selling sweets located at the corner of Devaraja Market. The shop was named “GURU SWEETS.” This unassuming shop was run by the descendants of the cook in the royal palace who invented the legendary sweet, “Mysore Pak.”
We spoke to Shri Shivananda, the great-grandson of Kakasura Madappa, who concocted Mysore Pak in the royal kitchen of Mysore. The legacy of Kakasura Madappa lives on in the varieties of Mysore Pak that are sold at this shop on the edge of the Devaraja Market of Mysore.
Strolling Into The Historic Devaraja Market of Mysore
As you step inside this centuries-old marketplace, the air is filled with the fragrance of fresh flowers, aromatic spices, and sandalwood. The sounds of the vendors selling their wares have a certain timeless quality to them. The atmosphere of the market fascinates and curates a complete sensory experience for visitors.
The market’s colonial-style architecture, with its long, symmetrical layout and arched entrances, adds to its historic charm. Strolling through the narrow, crowded lanes, you’ll find vendors enthusiastically calling out their prices as they display colorful fruits, vegetables, and traditional Mysore sweets like Mysore Pak. The vibrant flower section, filled with heaps of fragrant jasmine, marigold, and roses, is particularly mesmerizing.
We stopped at a shop selling the famed GI-tagged Nanjangud Bananas. The shop is more than a hundred years old and sells only GI-tagged Nanjangud Bananas. It is run by the third generation of the family, and its fruits are much sought after. The shop is known to have supplied its Nanjangud Bananas to the Mysore Palace, as well as to other celebrities and politicians.
At a little distance away are shops that are dedicated to the sale of the famed Mysore Betel Leaf, another GI-tagged product from Mysore. Cane baskets overflowing with gleaming and emerald-hued betel leaves grab your attention, as the shopkeeper tries to catch your eye, anticipating a business deal.
We next halt at a shop where the shopkeeper presides over a huge mound of snow-white Mysore Mallige flowers. The Mysore Mallige or Jasmine is another GI-tagged product of Mysore and is in many ways synonymous with the culture and spirit of Mysuru. The shopkeeper weighs the fragile and fragrant flowers and dispenses them to eager customers.
The scent of the flowers adds a divine touch to the ambience. Fragrant wisps of smoke from smouldering agarbattis make their way through heaps of colourful rangoli, vermilion, and turmeric in another shop.
The market is neatly divided into sections, each offering a unique experience. The flower stalls are particularly mesmerizing, with heaps of fresh marigolds, roses, and jasmine being strung into garlands. The spice section is equally captivating, with vibrant piles of turmeric, red chili, and cardamom filling the air with their fragrance. You’ll also find an array of fresh fruits, vegetables, incense sticks, and handcrafted items, making it a paradise for shoppers.
Another notable section is dedicated to puja essentials, where shops sell incense sticks, kumkum, sandalwood, and other religious items. Despite the crowd and chaos, Devaraja Market exudes an old-world charm that makes it a must-visit. The lively atmosphere, rich traditions, and warm hospitality of the vendors make this market an unforgettable experience.
Devaraja Market Photos
Here is a vibrant collage showcasing the bustling colors and culture of Devaraja Market in Mysore.
Devaraja Market Location, Address And Timings
Find Devaraja Market’s location, address, and opening hours here.
Location:
Click here for the location map and directions.
Address:
Sayyaji Rao Rd,
Medar Block,
Tilak Nagar,
Mysuru – 570001
Karnataka
Timings:
6:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Entry Ticket:
Free
Devaraja Market in Mysore – FAQs
A visit to Devaraja Market is like stepping into the cultural and historical heart of Mysore, where tradition thrives amidst bustling lanes and vibrant stalls. If you are planning to explore this iconic 100+ year-old market, here are some frequently asked questions to help you make the most of your experience.
What is Devaraja Market, and why is it famous?
Devaraja Market is a century-old, iconic bazaar in Mysore, known for its rich heritage, vibrant atmosphere, and diverse offerings ranging from spices and flowers to traditional sweets and handicrafts. It is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience the essence of Mysore’s culture and commerce.
Where is Devaraja Market located?
Devaraja Market is located in the heart of Mysore city, along Sayyaji Rao Road, near the famous Mysore Palace and the K.R. Circle.
What are the timings of Devaraja Market?
The market is open daily from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM, though some shops may open later or close earlier depending on the day and season.
What can I buy at Devaraja Market?
You can find a variety of local and traditional goods, including:
- Fresh produce (fruits and vegetables)
- Aromatic spices (especially Mysore’s famous sandalwood products)
- Mysore jasmine (Mallige) and other flowers
- Handmade incense sticks and perfumes
- Traditional Mysore silk items
- Sweets like Mysore Pak
- Handicrafts and souvenirs
Is Devaraja Market good for photography?
Yes! The market’s colorful stalls, lively vendors, and traditional architecture make it a paradise for photographers, capturing the essence of old-world Mysore.
How old is Devaraja Market?
Devaraja Market is over 125 years old, dating back to the Mysore Maharajas’ era, making it a historical landmark.
Is bargaining allowed at Devaraja Market?
Yes, bargaining is common for non-fixed-price items. Vendors expect some negotiation, especially for souvenirs, handicrafts, and bulk purchases.
Are there any famous shops inside Devaraja Market?
Yes, some well-known stalls include:
- Nanjudappa Badam Milk Stall (for traditional badam milk)
- Shops selling Mysore sandalwood products
- Aromatic spice vendors offering authentic local flavors
Is Devaraja Market crowded?
Yes, the market is often busy, especially in the mornings and evenings, as locals and tourists flock to buy fresh produce and traditional items.
How can I reach Devaraja Market?
You can choose any of the following:
- By bus: Mysore’s city buses stop near the market.
- By auto-rickshaw: Easily available across the city.
- By car: Parking can be a challenge, so public transport or walking is recommended.
Is Devaraja Market wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately, due to narrow lanes and uneven surfaces, it is not fully wheelchair-friendly, though assistance can be provided in some areas.
Can I find local Mysore sweets at Devaraja Market?
Yes! You can buy freshly made Mysore Pak, a famous sweet delicacy, from local vendors and sweet shops within the market.
Are there any restaurants or eateries near Devaraja Market?
Yes, some popular nearby restaurants include:
- Mylari Hotel (for authentic Mysore dosa)
- Vinayaka Mylari (for soft, buttery dosas)
- Mahesh Prasad (for traditional South Indian meals)
What is the best time to visit Devaraja Market?
The best time to visit is early morning (6:30–9:00 AM) when fresh produce arrives and the market is less crowded, or late afternoon when the lighting is great for photography.
Is Devaraja Market worth visiting?
Absolutely! Devaraja Market is a must-visit for its heritage, cultural richness, and authentic shopping experience, making it one of Mysore’s most historic and vibrant landmarks.
As we step outside the sweet chaos inside the Devaraja Market, we feel that we have traversed from one world to another, from one time zone to another. A walk through the iconic Devaraja Market of Mysore is an immersive experience that drenches you in the very spirit of Mysore and charms your senses.
We hope you liked walking with us through the historic Devaraja Market. If you have not been there, do plan a visit soon. If you have visited Devaraja Market, do let us know about your experience through the comments section.
We remind you to subscribe to our blog and monthly newsletter and connect with us on our social media handles. We leave you with the sounds and fragrances of the historic Devaraja Market of Mysore.
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Sandy & Vyjay quit their successful corporate careers to pursue their passion for travel and writing full-time. Their dedication has earned them the “Best Travel Writer” award and numerous accolades on both national and international stages. Focusing on India’s destinations, heritage, and culture, they are passionate advocates for nature and the environment. Through their content, they promote ecotourism and sustainable travel, inspiring others to explore and preserve the beauty of India.
