The Chamundi hills lie thirteen kilometers east of Mysore and their main feature is a temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, believed to have killed the buffalo-headed demon Mahishasura and thus symbolizing good over evil.
An ancient temple here dates back to 950AD and features the Nandi bull as Shiva’s vehicle, Nandi is standing halfway up the hillside as his vehicle and this statue can be found halfway up its slope. This monument marks one of Shiva’s primary means of transportation.
History
Chamundi Hills are an iconic symbol of faith and devotion that represent India’s spiritual and cultural history. Dedicating themselves to goddess Chamundeshwari (an incarnation of Goddess Parvati), Chamundi Hill boasts an extensive history replete with legends and folklore, serving as a pilgrimage site where devotees come to pray to her or seek her blessings. At over one kilometer in altitude, this revered destination offers spirituality combined with natural beauty in abundance.
At the center of the hill stands a two millennia old Chamundeshwari Temple, an exquisite example of Dravidian style architecture, dating back 2,000 years ago. Within its main sanctum lies an image of Chamundeshwari adorned with beautiful ornaments and garments for worship by devotees; furthermore, an imposing statue depicting Mahishasura from Hindu mythology has also been installed here to represent their vanquishing by Chamundeshwari herself here on this same spot two millennia earlier.
Chamundi Hills are not only known for their temple but also for their breathtaking sunset views and serene glistening lakes and forests; making this destination popular with both tourists and photographers. These hills also boast diverse fauna such as Bengal tigers.
Reaching Chamundi Hills is easy, and bus transportation may be your preferred method of travel. But to save some money you may wish to walk up its steep steps; just be sure to wear comfortable footwear!
There are multiple buses that stop by the Chamundi Hills daily; you can check their schedule online and purchase your tickets in advance to avoid last minute hassles. Buses depart from Mysore City Railway Station and Bangalore Railway Station respectively.
Chamundi Temple
The Chamundi Temple at Mysore stands on top of one of its hills and is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeswari, or more commonly known by her name “fierce form of Shakti”, who it is said, defeated demon Mahishasura whose image adorns its summit. Chamunddeswari also known as Nada Devi is considered the state Goddess for Karnataka and it dates back over 1,000 years! A large temple with numerous features dating back over that same time period; Dravidian architecture features prominently here!
Entrance to this massive shrine is through a silver-plated doorway featuring images of Dwarapalakas on either side. Within its sanctum sanctorum stands an image of Goddess Chamundeswari with eight arms sitting atop a lion sculpture and killing off Mahishasura with her Trishul. Don’t miss this must-visit when visiting Mysore!
As you approach the sanctum, you’ll come upon an enormous Nandi statue – one of India’s largest. According to legend, praying before this Nandi will grant all your wishes! In itself, the temple is an impressive structure with striking gates.
Temples are popular tourist spots for both locals and visitors, yet it is essential that both adhere to its rules of conduct and dress code when visiting. Shorts, mini-skirts and sleeveless tops are not permitted inside its grounds while men should wear either shirts with trousers or dhotis with upper cloth while women must wear either sarees or half-sarees as prescribed by policy.
Wintertime is the ideal time to visit this stunning location, as its temperatures remain mild. Additionally, this season allows visitors to observe lush greenery and wildlife on surrounding hillsides. Additionally, special festivals such as Car Festival and Teppotsava provide ample opportunity for celebration with friends or family members – this temple can easily be reached via bus from various parts of the state.
Chamundi Hills Height
At an elevation of approximately 1,000 metres above sea level, Mysore’s Chamundi hills are one of its top attractions in Karnataka. Their main draw is Chamundeshwari Temple which according to legend assassinated a buffalo head demon Mahishasura. Furthermore, these hills host a monolithic Nandi statue dedicated to Lord Shiva himself – another major feature.
Hill has numerous attractions, such as the impressive Mahabaleshwara Temple built by Wodeyars to honor Lord Shiva. Considered one of India’s 18 Maha Shakti Peethas, it is widely considered sacred site. Additionally, visitors can gain insights into the process of making sandalwood oil at Sandalwood Oil Factory.
On the slopes of the hills can be found numerous restaurants serving various cuisines. Open for 24 hours each day, these establishments provide an alternative way for visitors to avoid climbing up steps to Chamundeshwari Temple and are reasonable priced with welcoming owners who serve great meals!
Climbing the hill is a popular local pastime and great way to stay fit, taking anywhere between 12-60 minutes depending on an individual’s fitness levels and number of steps on the hill. Many locals carry water bottles during afternoon climbs as it can become very warm during this activity; groups of young adults often walk up it after dark for an amazing view over the city!
At half-way up Mysore Hill can be found a giant statue of Nandi, God Shiva’s bull or vahana, made out of one single piece of rock and considered one of the largest statues in India. Commissioned by Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar it depicts Nandi sitting peacefully. Popular among visitors, this ancient Mysore icon dates back centuries – making an excellent first stop before heading further up or visiting one of Mysore’s many ancient Ganga-era Mahabaleshwara Temples nearby too!
Steps
Chamundi hills tower magnificently over Mysore. Home to one of the largest sacred Dravidian temples dedicated to Goddess Chamundeswari, these hills serve as a major draw for both locals and tourists alike. Each year thousands climb its 1,000+ steps to reach its summit and seek blessings from Goddess Chamunddeswari; an exhilarating and rewarding experience for active devotees!
Temple Mahabaladri stands on a hill at its summit and in its sanctum houses an original four-armed statue of Goddess Chamundeswari that stands out among other temple statues in India and worldwide. According to legend, she killed Mahishasura after killing Chanda and Munda demons; thus giving this place its name “Hill of the Gods”.
Visit Mysore’s sacred place is an essential component of any trip to Mysore and its surrounding areas, which explains why travel agents always include it as part of one-day Mysore tour packages. Furthermore, its breathtaking view over Mysore city from here only adds to its popularity.
Before entering the Chamundi temple, it is crucial to maintain silence. Carry your camera or binoculars to capture its breathtaking scenery; wear comfortable footwear and clothing; bring water along while climbing stairs as the climate can become hot and windy at times; bring water for when climbing them too!
Climbing the stairs of Chamundi temple requires both exertion and energy, but eventually becomes easier. After descending 600 stairs, you’ll come upon an impressive monolith statue of Nandi (Lord Shiva’s vahana or vehicle). Here there are also some stalls selling beverages such as hot coffee/tea and sugar cane juice.
At this location, you can practice Surya Namaskar and pranayama. On evenings, many visitors flock to this spot for the Mysore Palace lighting 3d animation show that lasts an hour long.
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