Chamundeshwari temple is one of most prominent temples in Mysore. Dedicated to the Goddess Chamundeshwari (Chamundi), deity of the Mysore Royal Family and Mysore as well, this temple is about 1000 steps from the foot of the hill. The goddess is seated on a lion, killing the demon with her ‘trishul’. With its impressive architecture, great historical significance and surrounded with nature’s serenity at the Chamundi hills, this temple is still known as a prominent temples in India, attracting not only devotees but tourists from everywhere who come to witness its unshakable grandeur.
Distance (From Mysore Junction): 13.5 Kms
Visited From: Mysore Junction
Trip Duration (Including Travel): 2-3 Hours
Transportation Options: Bus / Cab
Travel Tips: Mahabaleshwara temple is behind the Chamundeswari temple and can be visited together.
Timings: 7:30 AM – 2 PM, 3.30 – 6 PM & 7:30 – 9 PM
At a distance of 13.5 Kms from Mysore Railway Station & 8.5 Kms from Mysore Zoo, Chamundi Hill is very famous for Chamundeswari temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeswari, an incarnation of Goddess Parvathi who took this form to destroy Mahishasura. Also known as Krouncha Pitham, Chamundi Temple is one among the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas representing the hair of Sati Devi and among the prime place to visit on a Mysore trip. This is one of the major pilgrimage sites in Karnataka and one of the top places to visit in Mysore.
At an altitude of 1065 meters, the temple on Chamundi Hill was built in 11th century. For centuries, the Wodeyars of Mysore revered the deity and made extensive contributions to this shrine. The idol of goddess Chamundi inside the central sanctum was made with pure gold. The temple is a fine example of Dravidian temple architecture. The temple possesses lots of images of Nandi. The most famous is the 15 feet high and 24 feet long Nandi on the 800th step on the hill.
The temple tower is 40 meters high with 7 stories which is painted in gold color. There are several images of the goddess in different formns carved on outer walls of the temple. The doorway of the tower has a beautiful image of Ganesha. The main tower is followed by another tower which leads to the mahamandapa of the temple which has plain pillars followed by antarala and the sanctum. Most of the times, the pilgrims have to get a glimpse of the goddess from mahamandapa. Those who are performing special poojas are allowed into the Antarala area close to the deity.
There is a colorful image of the Mahishasura situated on the summit of the Chamundi Hill. Well laid motorable road is available to the hill top near the temple. There are also one thousand steps from bottom for those who prefer to walk.
It usually takes 30 minutes to 1 hour for Darshan and can go up to 2-3 hours on special occasions. Special darshans are available for Rs. 30 and Rs. 100 to complete the darshan quickly.
Public transport is available from Mysore many parts of Mysore and taxis can also be hired. There is a viewpoint on the way to the hill which offers a panoramic view of the Mysore town.