CHAMUNDI HILLS MYSORE

CHAMUNDI HILLS is 13 km east of Mysore lies the prominent hills of Chamundi. With its scenic landscape, the hills housing the sacred Chamundeshwary temple are a popular destination for hikers and pilgrims. With attractions including the temple, the magnificent Nandhi statue, the Chamundeshwari park and the breathtaking scenery, the hills have become one of the most visited places in Mysore. 

LEGEND OF CHAMUNDI HILLS

Built as a simple structure in the 12th century by the Hoysala rulers, the temple underwent significant renovations and expansion under the rule of the Wodeyar Kings. One among the 18 shakti peethas in India, the Hindu temple in Mysore is rooted in popular mythology. According to legend, Chamundeshwari was a fierce warrior created to kill the demon king of Mahishasura. After a fight that lasted almost ten days, the goddess slayed the demon on top of the hills. The victory is celebrated as Navratri every year throughout the country.

ARCHITECTURE  OF THE CHAMUNDI TEMPLE

The temple exhibits a Dravidian style of architecture, a form that originated in south India. Some of its characteristics are the pillared hall, the towering gopurams ( gateways ), the intricate carvings and the sculptures. Among the noteworthy halls are the Kalyana Mandapa, reserved for wedding ceremonies, and the Navaranga Mandapa, used for musical and cultural performances. The sanctum sanctorum, built in the Hoysala style of architecture, houses the Goddess Chamundeshwari. Also there are smaller shrines dedicated to other hindu deities including Nandi, Mahabaleshwar and Ganapathi. The temple’s unique blend of different architectural styles reflects the various dynasties and empires that have ruled the region over the centuries. Hence it is one of the must-visit religious places in Mysore.

NANDHI STATUE

The 25 ft long, 8 ft wide and 16 ft wide sculpture is among the largest Nandhi statues in the country. Adorned with metallic bells, the sacred bull is carved from a single granite block. Constructed in the 17th century under the instruction of Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar, it is one of the primary attractions in Mysore. As the custom goes, the devotees seek Nandhi’s blessing at the 700th step before climbing to the temple. 

VIEW FROM HILLS

Chamundi hills offer a panoramic view of Mysore city, including landmarks such as the race course, Lalitha Mahal Palace, Mysore Palace and Karanji as well as Kukkarahalli lakes. If you are into trekking, climbing the 1000 steps to the temple while admiring the stunning view is highly recommended. Enjoy the scenery on the road to the temple, especially at sunset or sunrise when the sky adorns a range of different hues. During this time, the view of the city and surrounding landscape against this colourful backdrop creates a mesmerising effect. 

PLAN YOUR VISIT

The ideal time to visit Chamundi hills and Temple is from October to February, when the weather is cooler. Avoid the summer or monsoon seasons, for the heat and rain might make climbing difficult. The best time to visit the hills would be early morning or evening. 

As a significant religious site in Mysore, the temple attracts a large number of devotees during the annual Chamundeshwari temple festival in September and October. 

Visitors should avoid carrying disposable plastics or similar things, since the Chamundi hills are considered a strict no-plastic zone. 

TOURIST SPOTS NEAR CHAMUNDI HILLS

The two major Palaces of Mysore are within a short distance from the hills. 

• The Lalitha Mahal is  9 km away
• Mysore palaces are 12 km from the slop
• The Karanji lake is only 5 km away
• The famous Mysore zoo is 10 km from the hills.

Spend the day at palaces and lakes while dedicating the dawn or dusk to visiting Chamundi hills and the Mysore Zoo.