Krishna Rajendra (KR) Market, also called the city market, is the biggest wholesale market for goods in Bangalore, India. It is one of the most popular and oldest markets in the city. The market is in the heart of the town and is famous for its bustling energy and vibrant atmosphere. This wholesale market specializes in various goods like flowers, vegetables, fruits, and spices. But it is well-known as Bangalore’s flower market. The bustling KR market is made up of innumerable stalls and street vendors. It is a popular tourist destination for locals and tourists who come to experience the smells, sounds, and sights of the market. This flower market is hyped to be one of the largest in Asia!
Let’s explore a brief history of this place and see why it is so popular. We will also provide you with vital information like its timings, how to get there, and more.
A Brief History of the KR Market
KR Market, Chickpet, Bangalore, has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. This market was established in 1928, during the rule of Krishna Rajendra Wodeyar, the Maharaja of Mysore. As a tribute to his contributions to this city, the market was named after him. It is believed that the area of the KR market was once a water tank and a battlefield later before it was converted into a marketplace.
The market was originally built as a wholesaler market for agricultural products. However, over the years, it has evolved to become the hub for a broad array of goods. After undergoing several expansions and renovations to accommodate the changing needs and the growing population of the city, today the market is a bustling and vibrant destination famous for its rich cultural heritage and diverse offerings.
What makes the KR Market so popular?
At the KR Market, get a deal, sample some regional specialties, or pick up a few trinkets. The KR market area, around the bus stand, is taken over by the flower vendors as early as 4 am. The by-lanes and streets are lined with flower sellers hawking everything from endless strings of jasmine to budding orchids. Fat coils of chrysanthemums, marigolds, and mogra fill you aromatically and visually. Also, you can pick roses of every hue, local blooms, and carnations. Here the fresh vegetable market sells seasonal produce and you will be buying from a local farmer directly many a time. Also, the prices are a quarter of what you pay at those pricey supermarkets near your home.
By visiting early in the morning to the KR market, watch the arrival of fresh flowers, fruits, and vegetables. KR Market, Bangalore is a tremendous place to spend a morning exploring, doing grocery shopping, and taking selfies. This is a great place to pick up cheap electronics and home appliances like lights and emergency lamps. You can pick up second-hand dumbbells along with other gym items if you are a workout junkie. The market is also known for its wide variety of cotton and silk sarees in a range of designs, styles, and colors from different parts of India. It is popular for its jewellery shops as well where you can find a range of diamond, gold, and traditional Indian jewellery. It is a popular destination for purchasing traditional Indian souvenirs and handicrafts. You can find a wide variety of items from metal, wood, and clay in traditional designs and styles.
Apart from these attractions, this bustling market is home to a 200-year-old armory, Bangalore Fort, and the Summer Palace. Take advantage of a full-day tour of the market to see the best sights. Visit an archaeological museum, old structures, a cathedral, Hindu temples, Sri Dodda Ganapathi Temple, Bugle Rock Park, and Lalbagh Botanical Garden. Pointless to say, this flower market is popular with Insta lovers and city photogs.
How to reach Krishna Rajendra Market?
The KR market is served by metro trains. The nearest KR market metro station is Kempegowda Majestic Metro Station, located around 1.5 kilometers away. If you wish to go there by train, the nearest railway station to the market is the Bangalore City Railway Station, located around 2.5 kilometers away. You can take an auto-rickshaw or a taxi to get there.
The market is well connected by road. To reach the KR market bus stand, you can take a bus from various parts of the city. Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) operates many bus routes passing through the market. If you are an outsider and wish to visit the KR market, take an Airport Shuttle Service or a taxi from Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore.
The best time to visit KR Market
The timing of the KR Market, Bangalore varies depending on the section of the market. Generally, the wholesale section is open early in the morning around 4 AM and it is closed by noon. The street vendors and the retail section are open around 9 AM and closed by around 8 PM.
Wrapping Up,
KR Market Bangalore is a vibrant, crowded, and busy market in the heart of the city. It is great for morning exploration, grocery runs, and selfies. It is overwhelming to go through this market because of all the scents and sights. It is ideal to reach there in the early hours of the morning with a camera in hand to watch fresh flowers and veggies arrive for the day. A visit there is a wonderful way to experience the ambience of the traditional local market and get a taste of local life. Take a tour of the KR Market and surround yourself with blooms!
