Located in Mysuru District, Karnataka, Chamundi Hills rises to an elevation of 3,489 feet. The hill is crowned by the 12th-century Chamundeshwari Temple and features a massive 15-foot Nandi monolith carved directly from a single boulder.
Chamundi Hills
The Sacred Guardian Peak Overlooking the Royal City of Mysuru
A Glimpse into History
Origins – Mythological Roots
According to legend, the hill was the domain of the demon king Mahishasura. Goddess Parvati transcended into the fierce form of Chamundeshwari to slay him after a fierce battle here, making the site highly revered.
Evolution – Hoysala and Wadiyar Patronage
The primary shrine was built by the Hoysala rulers in the 12th century, while the imposing seven-story Gopuram was gifted by Krishnaraja Wadiyar III in 1827. The Wadiyars adopted Goddess Chamundeshwari as their titular deity.
Modern Era – Heritage Conservation
Today, the hill serves as a vital ecological zone and primary spiritual centre. A 1,000-step stone stairway built over three centuries remains a popular traditional pilrimage pathway to the summit.
Significance
The Chamundeshwari Temple is considered one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas. The hill's distinctive 16-foot monolithic Nandi (bull statue), carved in 1659 out of black granite, is one of the largest in India. The location also offers sweeping sunset views of Mysuru city and the glowing royal palace.
Festivals & Events
Ashada Shukravara (July–August)
The Fridays of the Hindu month of Ashada are highly auspicious. Lakhs of devotees climb the 1,000 steps barefoot to offer special prayers and distribute massive prasadam meals at the hilltop.
Mysuru Dasara (September–October)
The state festival kicks off with special rituals at the Chamundeshwari temple. The idol of the goddess is placed in the golden Ambari (howdah) for the famous Jamboo Savari elephant procession.
Did You Know?
Before reaching the temple via the road, a towering, colourful, sword-wielding statue of Mahishasura greets visitors. Mysuru city derives its name from 'Mahishuru', strictly translating to the town of Mahishasura.
Travel Guide
How to Reach
By Air: Mysuru Airport (MYQ) is 15 km away; Kempegowda (BLR) in Bengaluru is 180 km away.
By Train: Mysuru Junction (MYS) is 13 km away, linking directly to Bengaluru and Chennai.
By Road: Excellent public buses and cabs traverse the well-paved 13 km uphill ghat road from Mysuru center.
Best Time to Visit
September to March provides a cool, misty climb. Early mornings or late evenings are highly recommended to bypass peak sun and heavy weekend crowds, while avoiding rainy monsoons.
Local Attractions
Mysore Palace (~13 km): The grand official residence of the Wadiyars.
Mysore Zoo (~10 km): One of India's oldest and best-maintained zoological gardens.
Brindavan Gardens (~25 km): Famous sprawling gardens located beside the KRS dam.
Tips for Visitors
Temple timings are 7:30 AM – 2 PM, 3:30 PM – 6 PM, and 7:30 PM – 9 PM. Free entry available.
Special VIP darshan tickets are available on-site to bypass long queues on holidays.
Avoid walking barefoot on the hill's asphalt road in summer; stick to the shaded stairpaths instead.
Monkeys aggressively snatch visible food and plastic bags—keep belongings zipped inside backpacks.
Location Map
Image Gallery
