Last Updated on 14 October 2026 by Captain Poorna
Mysuru is a city best explored slowly. This self-guided Mysore heritage walk is our way of helping you experience Mysuru differently. If you are looking for more ways to explore the royal city, check out our guide to 10 Unique things to do in Mysore, featuring experiences beyond the usual sightseeing spots.
You can drive from one attraction to another and tick off Mysuru Palace, Jaganmohan Palace, Devaraja Market and other famous landmarks. But you will miss something along the way — the character of the city itself.
Start early at 7 AM, when Devaraja Market is coming alive. Wander through its colourful lanes, stop for photographs, admire historic clock towers and civic buildings, have a leisurely South Indian breakfast, and then continue towards the royal heart of the city.
The route is only about 4.2 km, but don’t let that fool you. This is not a walk to be completed as quickly as possible. Allow five to six hours to explore leisurely, take photographs, have breakfast and spend time at the major attractions.
There is also a practical reason for the early start. Several of Mysuru’s principal attractions open only around 10 AM. By starting at 7 AM, you can enjoy the market and the outdoor heritage sights first and reach Mysuru Palace after it opens.
So put on comfortable shoes, carry some water and your camera — and let’s explore Mysuru on foot.
Mysore Heritage Walk at a Glance
Starting point: Devaraja Market
Start time: 7:00 AM
Finishing point: Jaganmohan Palace
Walking distance: Approximately 4.2 km
Time required: 5–6 hours at a leisurely pace
Breakfast: New Preethi Sagar
Difficulty: Easy
Best for: Couples, families, photographers, architecture and history lovers
The Route
Devaraja Market → Chikka Gadiyara → New Preethi Sagar → K.R. Circle → Mysuru Town Hall → Dodda Gadiyara → Hardinge Circle → Mysuru Palace → Lansdowne Building → Jaganmohan Palace
Open the walking route in Google Maps
Don’t hurry! The actual walking time is much less than the total duration of this experience. The whole idea is to stop, look around, take photographs, have breakfast and enjoy Mysuru.
1. Devaraja Market — Start Your Mysuru Heritage Walk Here
7:00 AM | Allow 45–60 minutes
Start your walk at Devaraja Market, one of the most colourful and atmospheric places in central Mysuru.
And don’t rush through it.
For photographers, Devaraja Market is a delight. Early morning is particularly rewarding — flower sellers arranging their colourful displays, fruit and vegetable vendors setting up, shops opening for the day and shoppers beginning to arrive.
The market has a long history and developed into the present commercial complex during the Wadiyar period. Today, it remains one of the most recognisable traditional markets in the heart of Mysuru.
Take your time here
Walk through the market rather than simply walking around its perimeter.
Look at the colours, people, produce and old structure of the market. Flowers, spices, kumkum, incense, fruits and vegetables provide plenty of photographic opportunities.
Captain’s Tip: If you enjoy street photography, don’t keep your camera away here. The early morning activity and light are probably the best photographic combination on this entire walk.
When you are ready, make your way towards the Chikka Gadiyara.
2. Chikka Gadiyara — The Little Clock
Allow 10–15 minutes
At the edge of Devaraja Market stands Chikka Gadiyara, or the Little Clock.
It is also known as the Dufferin Clock Tower. The tower was built in 1886, around the visit of Lord Dufferin, the then Viceroy of India, to Mysuru. Maharaja Chamaraja Wadiyar X invited him to visit the city, and the clock tower was erected to commemorate the occasion.
At a time when clocks were not common in homes, public clock towers served a practical purpose as well as becoming important city landmarks.
The Chikka Gadiyara is especially interesting because it stands right beside the bustling Devaraja Market. In just a few steps, you move from a traditional market into a piece of Mysuru’s colonial-era urban history.
Look out for
- The decorative details of the clock tower
- The market surrounding it
- The contrast between the historic structure and today’s busy traffic
Captain’s Tip: Don’t photograph just the clock. Step back and include the market and surrounding streets. It gives you a much better sense of the place.
And now comes one of the most enjoyable parts of our walk.
3. Breakfast at New Preethi Sagar
Around 8:30–9:15 AM
By now, you will have earned your breakfast.
Our planned breakfast stop is New Preethi Sagar on Vinoba Road, conveniently located close to the beginning of the route.
This is not meant to be a rushed “grab something and go” stop.
Sit down. Have a proper South Indian breakfast. Order a dosa, idli-vada or another favourite, and finish with a cup of filter coffee.
After all, this is Mysuru. Breakfast is part of the experience.
Captain’s Tip: Check the restaurant’s current opening hours before setting out, particularly if you are doing the walk on a weekday or public holiday.
Once breakfast is done, continue towards K.R. Circle.
4. K.R. Circle — Mysuru’s Miniature Connaught Circus?
Allow 10–15 minutes
K.R. Circle is almost next door to Chikka Gadiyara, but it deserves a stop of its own.
When you arrive here, stop and look around.
The circular junction, the roads radiating from it and the collection of historic buildings around the circle reminded us of a miniature Connaught Circus.
It isn’t Mysuru’s version of Delhi’s famous Connaught Place, of course. But there is something about the circular urban space and the buildings around it that makes the comparison interesting.
And this is exactly the sort of thing you notice when you explore a city on foot rather than driving through it.
Look around
Don’t concentrate on one monument. Take in the entire space.
Look at:
- The buildings around the circle
- The roads radiating in different directions
- The old architecture mixed with modern traffic
- The decorative details that are easily missed from a vehicle
Captain’s Tip: Stand here for a few minutes before moving on. Look up and around. Sometimes the best part of a heritage walk is simply noticing things.
From here, continue towards Mysuru Town Hall.
5. Mysuru Town Hall — The Civic Face of Royal Mysuru
Allow 10–15 minutes
The C.V. Rangacharlu Memorial Town Hall is one of the important historic civic buildings in Mysuru.
Built in the late 19th century, it is named after Sir C.V. Rangacharlu, the first Dewan of Mysuru after the restoration of the Wadiyar family’s rule.
The building is a reminder that the heritage of Mysuru isn’t only about palaces. The city that developed under the Wadiyars also had impressive public buildings, markets, roads, parks and civic institutions.
Look out for
Take a moment to appreciate the building’s classical architectural character and its position within this historic part of the city.
And then look across the road.
You are about to meet another of Mysuru’s famous landmarks.
6. Dodda Gadiyara — The Big Clock
Allow 10–15 minutes
Standing opposite the Town Hall is Dodda Gadiyara, or the Big Clock — one of Mysuru’s most recognisable heritage landmarks. The Big Ben of Mysore!
There is much more to this clock tower than meets the eye.
The tower was inaugurated on 8 August 1927 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee — 25 years — of the reign of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wadiyar IV. It is therefore also known as the Silver Jubilee Clock Tower. It was built in just six months at a cost of about ₹7,500.
The approximately 75-foot tower has an Indo-Saracenic character, and its four clock faces carry Kannada numerals — a wonderful detail to look for when you stand beneath it.
There is another lovely story attached to the tower.
The clock was not simply a government project. Palace employees contributed money towards the Silver Jubilee Fund, as a token of their loyalty to the Maharaja. Archival records show that employees from 18 Palace departments contributed more than ₹5,800 towards it.
And then there was the bell.
In the days when most homes did not have clocks, the resonant hourly chime of Dodda Gadiyara served as a public timekeeper. Local historical accounts say the sound could be heard for around two kilometres or more. The bell has, however, been silent for decades.
Read this nice article on Clock Towers of Mysore – Star of Mysore
Look out for
- The four clock faces with Kannada numerals
- The Indo-Saracenic architectural details
- The domed top
- The relationship between the clock tower and Town Hall
Captain’s Tip: Stand a little away and photograph Dodda Gadiyara and Town Hall together. This gives you a much better sense of the historic streetscape.
7. Hardinge Circle — Where Six Roads Meet
Allow 10 minutes
Continue towards Hardinge Circle, where the character of Mysuru begins to change again.
The circle was named after Lord Charles Hardinge, the Viceroy and Governor-General of India. Hardinge and his wife, Lady Hardinge, visited Mysuru in November 1913, and the circle was created to commemorate his visit. The Times of India
Hardinge Circle is also interesting from an urban-planning perspective. The junction became an axis for six roads, making it an important part of Mysuru’s planned street network. Contemporary descriptions of Mysuru’s heritage circles also highlight this six-road arrangement. The Times of India
Take a moment to look at the roads radiating from the circle.
You are now moving away from the commercial heart of old Mysuru and towards the royal precinct.
Captain’s Tip
This is a good place to pause before continuing towards Mysuru Palace.
Look back at the route you have walked.
In just a few hours, you have gone from a bustling traditional market through clock towers, civic buildings and historic streets — and now you are approaching the Palace.
8. Mysuru Palace — Enter the Royal World
Allow 1–1½ hours
This is where the character of the walk changes completely.
Until now, you have been walking through everyday Mysuru — its market, streets, clock towers and civic buildings.
Now you enter royal Mysuru.
The present Mysuru Palace, also known as Amba Vilas Palace, was designed by English architect Henry Irwin and built between 1897 and 1912 after the earlier palace was destroyed by fire. Its Indo-Saracenic architecture, ornate Durbar Hall, Kalyana Mantapa, carved doors and royal treasures make it one of India’s most spectacular palaces.
The Palace is currently open from 10 AM to 5:30 PM, which is one of the reasons our early start works so well.
By the time you reach it, you have already experienced the market and much of the old city.
Don’t rush
Give yourself enough time to appreciate the architecture and interiors.
Look at the details rather than simply moving from room to room.
And remember that photography restrictions apply inside the Palace.
Captain’s Tip: The Palace is not just another stop on this walking route. Give it the time it deserves.
9. Lansdowne Building — Another Glimpse of Old Mysuru
After the Palace, continue towards the Lansdowne Building.
This historic structure is another reminder that Mysuru’s heritage extends well beyond royal residences.
The building dates from the late 19th century and forms part of the historic commercial and civic landscape around the Palace precinct.
Rather than simply walking past it, stop and look at its architectural details and its relationship with the surrounding streets.
This is one of the pleasures of a walking tour: you notice buildings that you might never have stopped for if you were sitting in a car.
10. Jaganmohan Palace — The Grand Finale
Allow 45–60 minutes
And finally, we reach Jaganmohan Palace, where our walking tour ends.
Built in 1861 by Mummadi Krishnaraja Wodeyar, Jaganmohan Palace is one of Mysuru’s important heritage buildings. It was built in the traditional Hindu architectural style and is particularly noted for its intricate carvings.
Look carefully at the entrance.
The carvings include representations of the Dashavatara — the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The palace also contains carvings and murals depicting the royal history and lineage of the Mysuru royal family, including scenes associated with Mysuru Dasara.
Today, the palace houses an important art collection and cultural spaces.
The current official listing gives visiting hours as 10 AM to 5:30 PM.
And what a place to finish!
We began the morning among the flowers, colours and activity of Devaraja Market.
We walked past clock towers and civic buildings.
We watched the city change from its commercial heart to its royal precinct.
We explored Mysuru Palace.
And we finish among art, architecture and the legacy of the Wadiyar era at Jaganmohan Palace.
That’s Mysuru in a nutshell.
What About Lunch?
By the time you finish at Jaganmohan Palace, you will probably be ready for lunch.
You can simply find a restaurant around the central Mysuru area.
But we have another suggestion if you want to make the day a little more special.
Want to end the day royally?
Take an auto-rickshaw from Jaganmohan Palace to Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel and have lunch there. Entry fee of Rs 100 will be deducted from the bill.
We deliberately haven’t included Lalitha Mahal in the walking route. It is too far away to make sense as part of a genuine walking tour.
But as an optional extension, it works beautifully.
Finish the walk at Jaganmohan Palace, hop into an auto-rickshaw and head to Lalitha Mahal for a leisurely lunch in a former royal palace.
Captain’s Tip: Check the hotel’s current restaurant timings and availability before making this your lunch plan.
How Long Should You Allow?
Although the walking distance is only around 4.2 km, don’t try to complete this walk in two hours.
We recommend allowing five to six hours.
A relaxed day could look something like this:
| Time | Experience |
|---|---|
| 7:00 AM | Start at Devaraja Market |
| 7:00–8:00 AM | Explore and photograph the market |
| 8:00–8:20 AM | Chikka Gadiyara |
| 8:30–9:15 AM | Breakfast at New Preethi Sagar |
| 9:15–9:30 AM | K.R. Circle |
| 9:30–9:45 AM | Mysuru Town Hall |
| 9:45–10:00 AM | Dodda Gadiyara |
| 10:00–10:15 AM | Hardinge Circle |
| 10:15–11:45 AM | Mysuru Palace |
| 11:45 AM–12:15 PM | Lansdowne Building and surroundings |
| 12:15–1:15 PM | Jaganmohan Palace |
| After 1:15 PM | Lunch / optional Lalitha Mahal extension |
Don’t treat this as a schedule you have to follow.
If you spend an hour photographing Devaraja Market, that’s fine.
If you want to sit at K.R. Circle and admire the architecture, do it.
If Mysuru Palace takes longer than expected, let it.
The whole idea is to explore leisurely.
Captain’s Tips for the Mysore Heritage Walk
Start early
7 AM is our recommended start time.
The city is cooler, Devaraja Market is lively and you get to experience the old city before it becomes busy.
Wear comfortable shoes
The distance isn’t huge, but you will be walking and standing for several hours.
Carry water
Especially during the warmer months.
Take a camera
Devaraja Market alone is worth carrying one for.
But keep photographing after you leave the market. The clock towers, historic buildings, Palace precinct and streets provide plenty of opportunities.
Don’t rush between attractions
The attractions are only part of the experience.
Look at the buildings between them.
Look up.
Look at old signboards, balconies, arches, windows and decorative details.
That is where much of Mysuru’s character lies.
Check opening hours
Mysuru Palace and Jaganmohan Palace currently open at 10 AM, but timings and entry arrangements can change. Check the official information before your visit. Mysore District Administration
Keep Lalitha Mahal as an optional extension
Don’t try to squeeze Lalitha Mahal into the walking route.
Finish the walk first.
Then take an auto-rickshaw if you would like to turn the day into a royal lunch experience.
Is This Walking Tour Suitable for Everyone?
The route is relatively easy and suitable for most people who are comfortable walking a few kilometres and spending several hours on their feet.
It is particularly suitable for:
- Couples looking for a leisurely day out
- Families with older children
- Photographers
- Architecture and history enthusiasts
- First-time visitors to Mysuru
- Repeat visitors who want to experience the city beyond the usual tourist checklist
And you don’t need to be a history buff.
You simply need to be curious.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the Mysore Heritage Walk?
The route is approximately 4.2 km. The actual walking time is much less than the total experience because you will be stopping at the market, monuments, Palace and breakfast.
We recommend allowing five to six hours.
What time should I start the Mysore walking tour?
We recommend starting at 7 AM.
The early start lets you experience Devaraja Market when it is coming alive and gives you time to explore the outdoor sights before the major attractions open.
Where should I have breakfast during the walk?
Our planned breakfast stop is New Preethi Sagar on Vinoba Road, close to the beginning of the route.
Check current timings before you go.
Can I do this walk with children?
Yes. The route is relatively easy, although younger children may find the five-to-six-hour experience tiring. Take your time and include a proper breakfast break.
Can I do the walk during Mysuru Dasara?
Absolutely — but expect considerably larger crowds, especially around the Palace and central Mysuru.
During Dasara, allow additional time and check the latest official timings, traffic restrictions and event arrangements before setting out.
Does the walk include Mysuru Palace?
Yes. Mysuru Palace is one of the principal stops on the route.
Why doesn’t the walk start at Mysuru Palace?
Because we think you will enjoy Mysuru more if you experience it slowly.
Starting at 7 AM allows you to explore Devaraja Market and the historic city centre first. By the time you reach Mysuru Palace, it is open.
Can I extend the walk to Lalitha Mahal?
We don’t recommend walking to Lalitha Mahal as part of this route.
Instead, finish the walking tour at Jaganmohan Palace and take an auto-rickshaw to Lalitha Mahal if you would like to have lunch there.
Our Verdict
This is not a walk for ticking off monuments.
It is a walk for experiencing Mysuru.
Start with the colours and chaos of Devaraja Market. Pause at the little Chikka Gadiyara. Have a leisurely breakfast. Stand at K.R. Circle and look around at what feels like a miniature Connaught Circus. Admire the Town Hall and Dodda Gadiyara. Walk towards the royal precinct. Spend time at Mysuru Palace. And finally, end your journey at the beautiful Jaganmohan Palace.
The route is short.
The experience is not.
So put away the urge to hurry, walk slowly and let Mysuru reveal itself to you.
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We inspire you to travel more — one walk at a time.