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Chickpet Cross, Bengaluru

Overview

•Chickpet Cross is the bustling junction where Doddapet and Chikkapet meet, forming the historic heart of Bangalore Pete founded by Kempe Gowda in 1537 AD.
•Today, it is a vibrant commercial hub, renowned for its wholesale textile and jewelry shops.
•The area offers a glimpse into the city's rich past amid the chaos of modern trade.

Highlights

Historic junction of Doddapet and Chikkapet
Wholesale textile and jewelry shopping
Legacy of Kempe Gowda's 1537 city planning
Vibrant local market atmosphere

Religious Significance

As the core of Kempe Gowda's original pete, Chickpet Cross symbolizes the foundation of Bangalore as a planned city. It has been a center of commerce for centuries, reflecting the city's growth from a medieval town to a metropolis. The junction remains a living heritage site, showcasing the enduring legacy of Bangalore's founder.

Facilities

Basic facilities such as small eateries, tea stalls, and public restrooms are available in the vicinity, but they are limited and basic in nature.

History

•Chickpet Cross lies at the intersection of Doddapet and Chikkapet, two of the oldest streets in Bangalore, established when Kempe Gowda founded the city in 1537 AD.
•These areas were originally planned as market streets, and over time, they evolved into the commercial backbone of the old city.
•The junction has witnessed centuries of trade and cultural exchange, preserving its historical essence.

Travel Tips

Wear comfortable footwear as you'll be walking through crowded lanes.
Bargain for better prices, especially when buying in bulk.
Keep your belongings secure in the bustling market area.

Location

•Chickpet Cross is located in the Chickpet area of central Bengaluru, approximately 1.8 km from the city center.
•It marks the meeting point of Doddapet and Chikkapet roads, near the bustling Chickpet market.

How to Reach

•From Bengaluru city center, you can easily reach Chickpet Cross by auto-rickshaw or taxi, which takes about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic.
•Alternatively, the Chickpet metro station on the Green Line is a short walk away, making it accessible via public transport.

Things to Do

Explore the Textile Market

1-2 hours

Wander through the lanes of Chickpet to discover a myriad of textile shops offering silk sarees, fabrics, and garments at wholesale rates.

ShoppingEasy

Visit Historic Temples

1 hour

Explore nearby temples such as the Kote Venkataramana Temple, which reflect the area's rich heritage and architectural style.

HeritageEasy

Do's and Don'ts

•Do explore the narrow lanes to experience the vibrant textile and jewelry markets, but be prepared for crowds and noise.
•Don't visit on Sundays as many shops remain closed.
•Do carry cash for purchases, as digital payments may not be accepted everywhere.

Photography Rules

•Photography is generally allowed in the public areas of Chickpet Cross, but be respectful when capturing images of shops and individuals, and always ask for permission before taking close-up shots of people or private property.

Frequently Asked Questions

Chickpet Cross is the historic junction of Doddapet and Chikkapet, the heart of Bangalore Pete founded by Kempe Gowda in 1537 AD. It represents the original commercial core of the city and continues to be a major trading hub.

Chickpet Cross is famous for its wholesale textiles, including silk sarees, and jewelry. You can find a wide variety of fabrics, readymade garments, and traditional ornaments at competitive prices.

You can take an auto-rickshaw or taxi from the city center, which takes about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, the Chickpet metro station is nearby, making it convenient to reach by public transport.

Quick Information

Best Time

The best time to visit is on weekdays during the morning hours (10 AM to 1 PM) when the markets are active but less crowded than in the evenings or weekends.