The tower was inaugurated in 1927 to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of Nalwadi Krishnaraja Wadiyar's reign.
It is distinct from the larger 'Dodda Gadiyara' (Big Clock Tower) located near the Mysore Palace.
The structure is built at a critical junction that historically regulated traffic flow in the Old Town area.
Local vendors often use the tower as a geographic marker for rendezvous points in the chaotic market layout.
Chikka Gadiyara, known locally as the Small Clock Tower, is a colonial-era landmark situated in the heart of Mysore's commercial district. Constructed in 1927, it serves as a central reference point amidst the high-density shopping lanes of Devaraja Mohalla. The structure features a clock mechanism housed within an elevated masonry tower, overlooking the intersection of major market arteries. It remains a functional piece of municipal heritage, surrounded by a dense concentration of street vendors and local retail outlets. The area surrounding the tower is the primary hub for daily trade in flowers, produce, and textiles. Despite urban modernization, the tower retains its original architectural footprint at the junction of Vinoba Road. It acts as the anchor for the bustling market environment that defines the city's central business zone.
From the opposite sidewalk on Vinoba Road to capture the full tower silhouette against the busy market backdrop.
Visit on foot to navigate the narrow, crowded streets surrounding the tower.
Keep your belongings secure, as the immediate vicinity is extremely congested with pedestrians.
Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Devaraja Market for a comprehensive local experience.
Do not attempt to drive a car directly to the tower base, as parking is non-existent and traffic is highly restricted.