Chamundeshwari Temple, Chamundi Hills, Mysore

When Was Chamundeshwari Temple Built?

The original shrine of Goddess Chamundeshwari is associated with the Hoysala period and is believed to have been constructed during the twelfth century.

The temple received additions and renovations under the Vijayanagara rulers and the Wodeyar dynasty of Mysore. The sacred stone staircase was built in 1659, while the present grand entrance gopuram was constructed or extensively renovated in 1827.

The temple visible today therefore represents several phases of construction extending from the Hoysala period to the nineteenth century.

Who Built Chamundeshwari Temple?

The original shrine is credited to the Hoysala rulers of the twelfth century. Later Vijayanagara rulers contributed to the development of the temple and its entrance structures.

Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar commissioned the flight of 1,008 stone steps leading to the hilltop in 1659. He also installed the massive monolithic Nandi statue on the hill during the seventeenth century.

Krishnaraja Wodeyar III restored and expanded the temple in 1827. The present seven-tiered gopuram and several decorative additions are associated with his reign.

History of Chamundeshwari Temple

Chamundi Hills have been regarded as sacred since ancient times. The oldest surviving shrine on the hill is Mahabaleshwara Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva. The hill was therefore initially known as Mahabaladri.

The worship of Goddess Chamundeshwari became increasingly prominent under the Wodeyar rulers. They accepted the Goddess as their guardian deity and prayed to her before important royal ceremonies and military activities.

Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar built the stone staircase to make the hilltop shrine accessible to pilgrims. The Wodeyar family continued to maintain and expand the temple.

Krishnaraja Wodeyar III carried out extensive renovations in 1827 and added the magnificent gopuram. The royal family also donated jewellery, vehicles and ceremonial objects that continue to be used during Navratri and Mysuru Dasara.

Legend of Goddess Chamundeshwari

According to the Devi Mahatmya, two powerful demons named Chanda and Munda served the demon kings Shumbha and Nishumbha.

Goddess Durga manifested a fierce divine form and destroyed Chanda and Munda. After defeating them, she became known as Chamunda—a name formed from Chanda and Munda.

Goddess Chamundeshwari is also closely associated with the destruction of Mahishasura, a buffalo-headed demon who had become extremely powerful after receiving a boon.

Mahishasura defeated several gods and created fear across the world. The combined divine energy of the gods manifested as Goddess Durga. After a fierce battle, she killed Mahishasura and restored peace.

The battle is traditionally associated with Chamundi Hills. A large statue of Mahishasura stands near the temple and represents this important legend.

Connection Between Mahishasura and Mysuru

According to local tradition, the region was once ruled by Mahishasura and became known as Mahishuru or Mahishasurana Ooru—the place associated with Mahishasura.

Over time, the name changed to Mysuru in Kannada and Mysore in English.

Goddess Chamundeshwari’s victory over Mahishasura represents the triumph of divine power, righteousness and wisdom over arrogance and evil.

Significance of Chamundeshwari Temple

Chamundeshwari Temple is one of Karnataka’s most important centres of Shakti worship. Devotees pray to the Goddess for courage, protection, strength, family well-being and victory over difficulties.

The Goddess is worshipped as the presiding deity of Mysuru and the guardian of the Wodeyar royal family.

The temple is also traditionally revered as Krouncha Peetha. According to one Shakti Peetha tradition, the hair of Goddess Sati is believed to have fallen in this sacred region.

Idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari

The main sanctum houses the sacred idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari in a powerful seated form. The Goddess is depicted with eight arms holding divine weapons and symbolic objects.

The idol is decorated with silk garments, flower garlands, a crown and valuable ornaments. During Navratri, the Goddess is adorned in different forms representing the Navadurgas.

A lion, the traditional vehicle of Goddess Durga, is associated with the deity’s divine form.

Architecture of Chamundeshwari Temple

Chamundeshwari Temple displays the Dravidian architectural style. Its most prominent feature is the magnificent seven-tiered gopuram covered with sculptures of Hindu deities and mythological figures.

The temple complex includes:

• Seven-tiered entrance gopuram
• Main courtyard
• Sabha Mandap
• Garbhagriha
• Goddess Chamundeshwari’s idol
• Decorative silver-plated doors
• Smaller shrines
• Ceremonial processional structures
• Deepa Stambha
• Sacred 1,008-step pathway

The temple’s hilltop position provides extensive views of Mysuru city, Mysore Palace, surrounding lakes and the distant countryside.

Chamundeshwari Temple Timings

Regular Darshan and Puja Timings

Friday Timings

Friday is considered an important day for Goddess worship and generally attracts larger crowds.

Timings may change during Ashada Fridays, Chamundeshwari Vardhanti, Navratri, Mysuru Dasara, eclipses and special ceremonies.

Daily Puja and Rituals

Morning Abhisheka

Morning Abhisheka is performed from 6:00 AM to 7:30 AM. On Fridays, it is conducted from 5:00 AM to 6:30 AM.

The ritual includes sacred bathing, Vedic chanting, decoration and Aarti.

Morning Darshan

Public darshan begins at 7:30 AM. Devotees can offer flowers, coconuts and other permitted offerings during this period.

Afternoon Worship

The temple reopens after its midday break at 3:30 PM. Darshan continues until 6:00 PM.

Evening Abhisheka and Aarti

Evening Abhisheka and Aarti are conducted from 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM. Public darshan resumes at 7:30 PM.

Night Darshan

The final darshan session is available from 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM. The temple closes at 9:00 PM.

Dasoha or Free Meal Timings

Free meals are arranged for devotees according to the following schedule:

Meal timings and availability may change during festivals and special crowd arrangements.

Special Pujas and Sevas

Devotees may arrange different pujas and religious services, including:

• Abhisheka
• Panchamrita Abhisheka
• Kumkum Archana
• Sahasranama Archana
• Mahamangalarathi
• Saree Offering
• Alankara Seva
• Utsava Seva
• Shashwatha Puja
• Friday Special Puja
• Navratri Puja
• Annadana or Dasoha Seva
• Family Sankalpa Puja
• Vehicle Puja

Puja services should be booked only through authorised temple facilities. Devotees should collect receipts for every official payment.

Offerings at Chamundeshwari Temple

Devotees commonly offer:

• Red flowers
• Flower garlands
• Kumkum and turmeric
• Coconut
• Fruits
• Saree and blouse cloth
• Green bangles
• Lemons
• Incense and lamps
• Sweets
• Donations for Dasoha

Only offerings approved by the temple administration should be taken inside.

Prasad at Chamundeshwari Temple

Laddoo, coconut, kumkum and other permitted forms of prasad are available at authorised counters.

Free meals are also served to devotees through the temple’s Dasoha arrangements. Visitors should help maintain cleanliness and avoid wasting food.

Sacred 1,008 Steps

A historic staircase containing 1,008 stone steps connects the base of Chamundi Hills with the temple. It was commissioned by Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar in 1659.

Climbing the steps is considered a devotional practice. Many pilgrims complete the climb while chanting the name of Goddess Chamundeshwari.

The route passes the massive Nandi statue and provides scenic views of Mysuru.

Recommended Time for Climbing Chamundi Hills

Visitors should carry drinking water and wear suitable footwear. The steps can become slippery during rain.

Senior citizens, children and visitors with health concerns may use the motor road or public bus instead of climbing the steps.

Monolithic Nandi Statue

A massive monolithic statue of Nandi is located near the 700th step. It was commissioned by Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar during the seventeenth century.

The Nandi is carved from a single block of black granite and is approximately 4.9 metres high and 7.6 metres long.

The statue is decorated with carved bells, necklaces and other ornamental details. A small Shiva shrine is situated nearby.

Mahishasura Statue

A colourful statue of Mahishasura stands close to the hilltop temple. The demon is depicted holding a sword and a cobra.

The statue is one of Chamundi Hills’ best-known landmarks and represents the legend behind the names Mahishuru and Mysuru.

Mahabaleshwara Temple

Mahabaleshwara Temple is the oldest temple on Chamundi Hills. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva and gave the hill its earlier name, Mahabaladri.

The temple displays architectural elements connected with the Ganga, Chola, Hoysala and Wodeyar periods.

Devotees can include Mahabaleshwara Temple in their visit after receiving the darshan of Goddess Chamundeshwari.

Major Festivals Celebrated

Mysuru Dasara and Navratri

Navratri is the most important festival celebrated at Chamundeshwari Temple. The Goddess is decorated in nine different forms representing the Navadurgas.

Mysuru Dasara is celebrated as Karnataka’s state festival. The Wodeyar royal family performs traditional worship, and the entire city is illuminated.

Ashada Fridays

Fridays in the Hindu month of Ashada are considered especially sacred. Special Abhisheka, Alankara and Mahamangalarathi are performed.

Large crowds visit the temple, and private-vehicle access to Chamundi Hills may be restricted. Shuttle buses are generally arranged from designated locations.

Chamundeshwari Vardhanti

Chamundeshwari Vardhanti commemorates the consecration of the Goddess’s Utsava Murti by the Mysore royal family.

Special rituals include Panchamrita Abhisheka, Rudrabhisheka, Kumkum Archana and Sahasranama Archana. The Utsava Murti is taken in a ceremonial palanquin procession.

Vijayadashami

Vijayadashami celebrates the victory of Goddess Chamundeshwari over Mahishasura. The festival forms the grand conclusion of Mysuru Dasara.

Deepavali

The temple is decorated with lamps, flowers and traditional ornaments during Deepavali.

Dress Code

Visitors should wear clean and modest clothing suitable for a religious place.

Traditional Indian attire is preferred for Abhisheka and special pujas. Shorts, sleeveless clothing and outfits unsuitable for temple worship should be avoided.

Footwear must be removed before entering the temple.

Photography and Security Rules

Photography and videography are restricted inside the main temple and near the Garbhagriha.

Mobile phones, cameras, large bags and other restricted objects may need to be deposited outside. Security checks are conducted before entry.

Visitors should avoid photographing restricted ritual areas and follow the instructions of temple personnel.

Plastic-Free Zone

Chamundi Hills and the temple area are declared a no-plastic zone. Visitors should not carry plastic bags or discard plastic waste on the hill.

Reusable water bottles and cloth bags are preferable. All waste should be placed in designated bins.

Best Time to Visit Chamundeshwari Temple

The best months to visit Mysuru are from October to February, when the weather is pleasant.

For a peaceful darshan, visitors should arrive between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM on a regular weekday. The afternoon session from 3:30 PM to 5:00 PM may also have shorter queues.

Fridays, Ashada Fridays, Navratri, Mysuru Dasara, weekends and public holidays attract larger crowds.

Recommended Visit Duration

A regular temple visit requires one to two hours.

Visitors planning to explore the Mahabaleshwara Temple, Mahishasura statue, Nandi statue and viewpoints should reserve three to four hours.

Those climbing all 1,008 steps should reserve four to five hours for the complete visit.

Entry Fee and Darshan Facility

General Dharma Darshan is free.

Paid special darshan and selected puja tickets may be available subject to temple regulations. Charges may change during festivals and special arrangements.

Devotees should use only authorised booking counters and avoid agents offering unauthorised VIP entry.

How to Reach Chamundeshwari Temple

By Air

Mysuru Airport is the nearest airport and is approximately 20–25 kilometres from Chamundi Hills.

Taxis and private vehicles are available from the airport. Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru is the nearest major international airport.

By Train

Mysuru Junction Railway Station is approximately 13 kilometres from the temple.

Mysuru has train connections with Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Hubballi and other major cities. Taxis, auto-rickshaws and buses are available outside the station.

By Road

Chamundeshwari Temple is approximately 13 kilometres from Mysuru city. A well-maintained hill road leads directly to the temple complex.

KSRTC buses operate from Mysuru City Bus Stand to Chamundi Hills at intervals of approximately twenty minutes. Taxis, auto-rickshaws and private vehicles are also available.

Private-vehicle restrictions may be imposed during Ashada Fridays, Navratri and major festivals.

By Steps

Pilgrims can reach the temple by climbing the historic 1,008 stone steps from the base of Chamundi Hills.

Nearby Places to Visit

Mahabaleshwara Temple

The oldest shrine on Chamundi Hills is dedicated to Lord Shiva and has significant architectural and historical value.

Monolithic Nandi

The massive granite Nandi statue is located beside the sacred staircase and is one of the hill’s principal attractions.

Mahishasura Statue

The iconic statue represents the demon defeated by Goddess Chamundeshwari.

Jwalamukhi Tripura Sundari Temple

Located at Uttanahalli near the foothills, this temple is dedicated to Goddess Jwalamukhi Tripura Sundari, traditionally regarded as the sister of Chamundeshwari.

Mysore Palace

Mysore Palace is known for its royal architecture, decorated halls and spectacular illumination during Dasara.

Lalitha Mahal Palace

Lalitha Mahal is a historic palace situated near Chamundi Hills and is known for its elegant architecture.

Karanji Lake

Karanji Lake is a peaceful nature attraction featuring walking paths, a butterfly park and birdwatching areas.

Mysore Sand Sculpture Museum

The museum displays detailed sculptures created from sand and is located on the road leading to Chamundi Hills.

Nanjangud Srikanteshwara Temple

The ancient Srikanteshwara Temple at Nanjangud is dedicated to Lord Shiva and can be included in a Mysuru pilgrimage itinerary.

Facilities Available

Facilities available on Chamundi Hills include:

• General darshan queues
• Special darshan counters
• Puja-booking facilities
• Dasoha or free meals
• Shoe-deposit counters
• Drinking water
• Public toilets
• Cloakroom facilities
• Prasad counters
• Parking areas
• KSRTC bus services
• Police and security assistance
• Basic medical support
• Shops selling puja materials
• Viewing areas

Facilities and traffic arrangements may change during festivals.

Important Tips for Visitors

• Visit between 7:30 AM and 9:00 AM for peaceful darshan.
• Reach before the morning Abhisheka if participating in a special puja.
• Expect longer queues on Fridays and during Navratri.
• Use official shuttle buses when private vehicles are restricted.
• Carry drinking water when climbing the steps.
• Wear comfortable footwear for the staircase.
• Remove footwear before entering the temple.
• Avoid plastic bags and disposable plastic items.
• Use only authorised puja and darshan counters.
• Collect receipts for every paid service.
• Follow photography restrictions.
• Avoid feeding monkeys or carrying uncovered food.
• Take additional care on wet steps during the monsoon.
• Maintain silence and cleanliness inside the temple complex.

Conclusion

Chamundeshwari Temple on Chamundi Hills is a sacred symbol of divine power, courage and victory over evil. Its twelfth-century origins, royal Wodeyar patronage, seven-tiered gopuram, 1,008 stone steps and connection with the legend of Mahishasura make it one of Karnataka’s most significant pilgrimage destinations.

A visit to Chamundi Hills allows devotees to seek the blessings of Goddess Chamundeshwari while experiencing the spiritual, historical and natural beauty of Mysuru.