Sri Chamundeshwari Temple

Goddess Chamundeshwari (a fierce form of Durga)

Chamundi Hills, Mysuru

Folktale & Sacred Story

According to the legend most closely tied to this hill, the buffalo-demon Mahishasura, protected by a boon that he could not be slain by any man, terrorized both heaven and earth until the goddess (in her form as Chamundeshwari/Mahishasura Mardini) rode her lion into a ten-day battle atop this hill and finally killed him, restoring peace to the region. A large statue of the slain demon Mahishasura, erected near the hilltop, commemorates this legend for visiting devotees today.

Most Revered Practice

The temple is at the spiritual heart of Mysuru Dasara, Karnataka's grand state festival; during Navaratri, elaborate rituals are performed for the goddess, and on Vijayadashami her festival idol is traditionally taken in procession as part of the city's celebrated Dasara festivities.

Prasadam & Offerings

Free meals (anna prasada) are reported to be served to devotees daily around midday, though the specific prasadam item offered is not independently verified — confirm locally.

Temple Speciality

The temple sits atop Chamundi Hill at roughly 1,000 metres elevation, reached by a flight of about 1,000 stone steps lined with a large Nandi statue, and offers sweeping panoramic views over the city of Mysuru.

Why Pilgrims Visit

A visit combines a significant Shakti pilgrimage with dramatic hilltop views of Mysuru and easy access to the city's palace and Dasara festivities, especially during the Navaratri season.

History & Legend

Worship on Chamundi Hill is believed to date back over a thousand years, with the site gaining architectural prominence under the Hoysala kings in the 12th century. The temple rose to particular importance under the Wodeyar dynasty of Mysore, who adopted Chamundeshwari as their family (kula) deity. In 1664 CE, Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar, the thirteenth Maharaja of Mysore, commissioned the construction of the roughly 1,000 stone steps leading up the hill to the temple. The temple's gopura and surrounding structures have been renovated and embellished by successive Mysore rulers over the centuries.

Divine Significance

As the tutelary deity of the former Mysore royal family, Chamundeshwari is central to the region's religious and political history, and the city of Mysuru itself is popularly said to derive its name from her mythic victory over the demon Mahishasura on this very hill.

Darshan Timings

Generally open 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM, and 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM daily (please confirm exact timings with the temple before visiting, as they vary by season and festival).

How To Reach

The nearest airport is Mysuru Airport (about 15 km), with Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru, roughly 150 km away; the nearest major railway station is Mysuru Junction, about 13 km from the hill.

Where To Stay

Mysuru city offers a wide range of hotels, from budget lodges to heritage and luxury properties, all within a short drive of Chamundi Hill.

Local Food Nearby

Mysuru is famous for Mysuru Pak, Mysuru-style masala dosa, and filter coffee, all widely available in the city below the hill.

Contact & Official Info

Visitors can contact the Sri Chamundeshwari Temple authorities or Karnataka's Muzrai Department for darshan and seva bookings.

Location Map

View on Google Maps → (12.272474, 76.670611)