The Chamundeshwari Temple, perched atop the Chamundi Hills near Mysuru (Mysore), Karnataka, is a revered shrine dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, an incarnation of Durga. This historic temple not only attracts pilgrims for its divine blessings but also enchants tourists with its stunning hilltop location, panoramic views of Mysore, and deep-rooted cultural significance. With a legacy that dates back over a thousand years, Chamundeshwari Temple stands as one of South India’s most important Shakti Peethas and a must-visit spiritual destination.
| Temple Name | Chamundeshwari Temple |
| Location | Chamundi Hills, Mysuru (Mysore), Karnataka, India |
| Deity | Goddess Chamundeshwari (incarnation of Durga) |
| Established | 12th Century (Hoysala period), expanded by Wodeyar Dynasty |
| Temple Style | Dravidian Architecture |
| Elevation | 1,060 meters (3,480 feet) above sea level |
| Main Attractions | 7-tier Gopuram, Nandi Statue, Panoramic View of Mysore |
| Number of Steps | 1,008 steps (if climbing by foot) |
| Temple Timings | 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM (Fridays from 5:00 AM) |
| Entry Fee | Free (Special Darshan available at a nominal fee) |
| Major Festivals | Navaratri (Dasara), Chamundi Jayanthi |
| Best Time to Visit | October to March (pleasant climate) |
| Nearest Railway Station | Mysuru Junction (~13 km) |
| Nearest Airport | Mysore Airport (~18 km), Bangalore Airport (~180 km) |
| Nearby Restaurants | Mylari Hotel, Hotel RRR, Radisson Blu’s Spring Restaurant |
| Nearby Hotels | Radisson Blu, Grand Mercure, Sandesh The Prince, Treebo Akshaya |
Who is Goddess Chamundeshwari?
Goddess Chamundeshwari is one of the fierce forms of Shakti, also known as Mahishasura Mardini, the slayer of the demon Mahishasura. The temple’s mythology is deeply connected to the city of Mysore, whose name is believed to be derived from “Mahishuru” — meaning the place where Mahishasura was slain. Devotees believe that worshipping Chamundeshwari removes obstacles, defeats negativity, and brings power and protection to the faithful.
Historical Significance
The origins of the Chamundeshwari Temple trace back to the 12th century, during the rule of the Hoysala kings. It was later expanded by the Wodeyars of Mysore, particularly Krishnaraja Wodeyar III, who was a devout follower of the goddess. The Wodeyar dynasty considered Goddess Chamundeshwari as their kuladevata (family deity), and under their patronage, the temple gained grandeur and status.
Inscriptions and records from various dynasties—including the Vijayanagara Empire and Wodeyar rulers—highlight the temple’s political, cultural, and religious importance over the centuries.
Temple Architecture
The Chamundeshwari Temple exhibits Dravidian-style architecture with a seven-tier gopuram (entrance tower) and a Vimana (tower over the sanctum). Intricate carvings of deities, floral motifs, and mythological figures adorn the temple façade.
Key architectural features include:
7-storeyed Raja Gopura with golden kalashas (finials)
A grand entrance with silver-plated doors
The sanctum sanctorum housing the fierce idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari
A massive Nandi statue (second-largest in India), carved out of a single rock, halfway up the hill
The idol of Chamundeshwari is adorned with ornaments, weapons, and a serene yet powerful expression. On festive occasions, she is decorated with special jewels donated by Mysore royalty.
Scenic Location on Chamundi Hills
Located at an elevation of 1,060 meters (3,480 feet), Chamundeshwari Temple offers breathtaking views of Mysuru city, the Mysore Palace, Karanji Lake, and the Chamundi Hill forest.
Pilgrims can reach the temple via two main routes:
Roadway: A well-paved 13-km road that leads directly to the temple with ample parking space.
Steps route: A traditional pilgrim path with 1,008 granite steps, used by devotees seeking penance or spiritual merit.
Chamundeshwari Temple Timings
| Activity | Timing |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening | 7:30 AM |
| Morning Pooja | 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Afternoon Break | 2:00 PM – 3:30 PM |
| Evening Pooja & Darshan | 3:30 PM – 9:00 PM |
| Fridays | Opens at 5:00 AM |
| Special Darshan (Paid) | 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM |
Timings may vary on special festival days like Navaratri.
Major Festivals Celebrated
The temple becomes a major attraction during:
Navaratri (Dasara)
Celebrated in September/October for 9 days
Goddess Chamundeshwari is worshipped with grandeur and daily cultural events
Processions, special poojas, and massive crowds gather for blessings
Chamundi Jayanthi
Celebrates the birth or incarnation of Goddess Chamundeshwari
Devotees throng for rituals and anna-daanam (food offerings)
How to Reach Chamundeshwari Temple
By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: Mysuru Junction (13 km)
Regular trains from Bengaluru, Chennai, and other major cities
By Air:
Mysore Airport (Domestic): ~18 km
Kempegowda International Airport (Bangalore): ~180 km
By Road:
Regular KSRTC buses, taxis, and autos from Mysuru city
Accessible via private vehicles with ample parking at the top
Nearby Restaurants
While food stalls are available near the temple premises, for better options, you can find restaurants in Mysore city:
| Restaurant Name | Cuisine | Distance |
|---|---|---|
| Mylari Hotel | South Indian | 7.5 km |
| Hotel RRR | Andhra meals | 8 km |
| The Old House | Italian, Indian | 9 km |
| Spring – Radisson Blu | Multi-cuisine | 10 km |
| Gayatri Tiffin Room | Pure Veg | 8.5 km |
Nearby Hotels
| Hotel Name | Category | Distance from Temple |
|---|---|---|
| Radisson Blu Plaza | 5-Star | 10 km |
| Grand Mercure Mysore | 4-Star | 11 km |
| Hotel Sandesh The Prince | Premium | 9 km |
| Treebo Akshaya Mahal Inn | Budget | 8 km |
| Hotel Roopa | Budget | 8.5 km |
Travel Tips for Visitors
Wear modest and comfortable clothing
Early morning visits offer less crowd and better views
Avoid weekends and public holidays if you want a quiet darshan
Photography is allowed outside the temple, not inside the sanctum
Carry water and light snacks if taking the stairs
