Chickpet Market is one of the oldest and busiest traditional markets in Bangalore, known for its vibrant shopping streets and wholesale textile stores. Chickpet Market attracts shoppers, traders, and tourists looking for silk sarees, fabrics, jewelry, and traditional goods.
Located in the heart of old Bangalore, the market is famous for its narrow streets filled with hundreds of shops. Visitors often explore the area to experience the traditional trading culture and find some of the best silk sarees and garments in the city.
History of Chickpet Market
Chickpet Market dates back several centuries and is believed to have been established during the reign of Kempe Gowda I, the founder of Bangalore in the 16th century. The area was developed as a commercial center where merchants and traders could conduct business.
Over time, Chickpet grew into a major marketplace for textiles, jewelry, spices, and other goods. The market has maintained its traditional character for generations and continues to be a major trading hub in Bangalore.
Today, Chickpet remains one of the most important wholesale markets in the city and is especially famous for silk saree shopping.
Significance of Chickpet Market
Chickpet Market holds historical and commercial importance in Bangalore’s development. The market represents the city’s traditional trade culture and entrepreneurial spirit.
Important highlights of the market include:
- One of the oldest marketplaces in Bangalore
- Major center for silk sarees, fabrics, and garment materials
- Popular wholesale market for traders and retailers
- Historic streets that reflect the traditional trading lifestyle
- Many people visit Chickpet during festival seasons and weddings to purchase traditional clothing and textiles.
How to Reach Chickpet Market
By Road
Chickpet Market is located in central Bangalore and is easily accessible by road.
Distance from Bangalore City Center: approximately 2–3 km
Available transport options:
- BMTC city buses
- Auto-rickshaws
- Taxis and app-based cab services
- Private vehicles
- Due to heavy traffic and narrow streets, many visitors prefer walking or using autos in the area.
By Rail
- Nearest Railway Station: KSR Bengaluru City Railway Station (Majestic)
- Distance: approximately 2 km
- Visitors can reach Chickpet by auto-rickshaw, taxi, or city bus from the railway station.
By Air
- Nearest Airport: Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore
- Distance: approximately 35 km
- Airport taxis, buses, and app-based cabs are available to reach the market area.
Best Time to Visit Chickpet Market
- Chickpet Market can be visited throughout the year.
- Best months : October to March when the weather in Bangalore is pleasant.
- Best time of day : Morning and afternoon hours are ideal for shopping.
- During festival seasons and wedding months, the market becomes especially busy with shoppers.
Ideal Time Required to Visit
- Visitors generally spend 2–3 hours exploring the market streets, shopping for textiles, and experiencing the lively atmosphere.
- Those interested in detailed shopping may spend half a day browsing through different shops.
Opening & Closing Timings
- Opening Time: 10:00 AM
- Closing Time: 8:30 PM
- Most shops remain closed on Sundays or operate with limited hours.
- Timings may vary slightly depending on individual shops.
Entry Fee Details
- Entry Fee: Free
- Visitors can explore Chickpet Market without any entry charge.
- Prices of goods and shop timings may vary depending on the stores.
Address & Location Details
- Full Address :Chickpete (near Balepet and Cottonpet),Chickpete, Bangalore – 560053 ,Karnataka, India
- Nearby landmark: KR Market and Avenue Road, two well-known commercial areas in Bangalore.
Facilities Available for Visitors
- Visitors can find several basic facilities in and around the market area:
- Public parking areas nearby
- Restrooms in nearby commercial complexes
- Drinking water facilities in shops and eateries
- Numerous textile stores and wholesale shops
- Restaurants and street food vendors
- These facilities make shopping in the market more convenient for visitors.
Nearby Places to Visit
- KR Market (Krishna Rajendra Market) : One of the largest flower and vegetable markets in Bangalore, known for its colorful and vibrant atmosphere.
- Tipu Sultan’s Summer Palace : A historic palace built during the reign of Tipu Sultan, showcasing beautiful Indo-Islamic architecture.
- Cubbon Park : A large green park in central Bangalore, ideal for relaxation, walking, and sightseeing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What are the timings of Chickpet Market?
Most shops in Chickpet Market are open from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM.
Q2. Is there any entry fee for Chickpet Market?
No, there is no entry fee to visit the market.
Q3. What is the best time to visit Chickpet Market?
Morning and afternoon hours are best for comfortable shopping.
Q4. How much time is needed to explore Chickpet Market?
Visitors usually spend 2–3 hours exploring the market.
Q5. Is parking available near Chickpet Market?
Yes, parking facilities are available in nearby areas, but the streets inside the market are narrow and crowded.
