Mysuru houses not only many heritage buildings but also other heritage structures like gateways, roundabouts & arches. They were built by Wodeyars and hence have a royal stamp on them. Mysuru is one among the few cities of our country to have retained and restored most of the heritage structures as they were before. The iconic Mysuru Palace, which is an architectural marvel, has plenty of majestic gates which are prominent heritage structures of the city.
Jayamarthanda Gate:
Jayamarthanda Gate which is located at the eastern side of the Palace (Bangalore – Nilgiri road) is the most magnificent arch of Mysuru. It is said that Wodeyars used to begin their religious rituals like welcoming the royal horse, elephant etc. from this gate. This tradition is being followed even today. It opens only once in a year while welcoming Dasara elephants. History says that this gate was also used by the kings to travel towards Chamundi Hills or Lalitha Mahal Palace. This gate is named after the elephant ‘Jayamarthanda’ which was hugely respected by the Kings as it carried the golden howdah for 45 years.
Jayarama and Balarama Gates:
Located on the northern part of the Palace, these gates are also popular because the Golden Howdah passes through the Balarama Gate on the day of Vijayadashami. Kote Anjaneyaswamy Temple, Kote Ganesha Temple and Sri Rama Temple are attached to both of these gates.
Brahmapuri Gate:
Brahmapuri Gate is at the west side of the Palace (Sayyaji Rao Road). This is the oldest among the gates at the Palace and is known to be used by the Royal Family to travel towards the Parakala Mutt, Jaganmohan Palace and the city market. This gate is said to have been used by Parakala Mutt Seers whenever they visited the Palace.
Karikallu Thotti Gate:
Karikallu Thotti Gate is situated opposite to Mysuru City Corporation building. It is said that the royal family stocked up vegetables, groceries and other items at the Janata Bazaar building which was earlier known as Mothi Khane. And whenever there was a need, groceries would be brought to the Palace through this gate.
Amba Vilas Gate:
Amba Vilas Gate is located at the South of the Palace on Purandara Dasa Road (in between Palace and CADA Office). It is said that the gate was used by the royal invitees and durbaris to enter the Durbar Hall while the Khas Durbar was held during Dasara celebrations.
Varaha Gate:
This is in the southern part of the palace, which is now a tourist entry point. It is said that the gate was constructed for the internal security purpose of the Palace. It is said that Varaha Gate used to give easy access to the Gun House (where the weapons were stored). Near this is the Varaha Swamy Temple.