About Chamundeshwari Temple
Opening Hours: 07:30 am-02:00 pm, 3:30 pm- 6:00 pm, 7:30 pm- 9:00 pm
Prime Day & Hours: Mondays, morning and evening aarti
Suggested Duration: 1-2 hours
Tickets: Free entry
Nearest Railway Station: Mysuru Junction (MYS), about 13 km away
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport, about 15 km away
Nearest Bus Stop: KSRTC bus stand, about 300 m away
The Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, an incarnation of Durga, is one of Karnataka's most important shrines. It is located on top of the 1,000-foot Chamundi Hill, which looks out over the city, making it one of the best places to visit in Mysore. The temple was built in the 12th century by the Hoysala kings and later expanded by the Wodeyars of Mysore. It has a lot of historical and spiritual meaning.
It honours the goddess's victory over the demon Mahishasura, which is also remembered in the big Dussehra celebrations that happen every year. The temple's beautiful Dravidian-style gopuram, which has seven golden kalashas and intricate carvings, is a work of art in its own right. People can either drive up the hill to the temple or climb the **1,008 stone steps**. On the way, you'll see a huge statue of Nandi, which is one of the biggest in India. From the top, you can see all of Mysore city in a breathtaking way. The sanctum inside radiates divine energy, giving visitors a deeply immersive and culturally rich spiritual experience.
Chamundeshwari Temple Highlights
• Immerse yourself in the divine at the Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to the goddess Durga, located in Mysore.
• Participate in vibrant rituals and poojas, especially during grand celebrations like Navratri and Vijayadashami.
• Climb the revered 1,008 steps to the temple, a symbolic journey of devotion and self-purification.
• Marvel at the majestic 7-tiered gopuram adorned with intricate carvings and mythological motifs.
How To Reach Chamundeshwari Temple
By car/taxi: Chamundeshwari Temple is about 16 km from the Mysore city centre, via Chamundi Hill Rd. It will take you around 20 minutes to get there.
Best Time To Visit Chamundeshwari Temple
Peak Season (October to February):
- Weather Insights: Cool and pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 28°C
- Things to Do: attend aarti, observe the outside complex
Moderate Season (June to September):
- Weather Insights: Monsoon season with heavy rainfall and high humidity, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C
- Things to do: Appreciate nature in its full bloom, offer prayers
Low Season (March to May):
- Weather Insights: Hot and humid, with higher temperatures, ranging from 25°C to 38°C
- Things to do: Appreciate the architecture, meditate
Chamundeshwari Temple Other Essential Information
Know before you go
- Wear modest clothes and respect the decorum of the temple.
- Do not take pictures or shoot videos inside the temple without prior permission.
- Check the timings for festivals and special prayers so you don't miss out.
- Stay patient and maintain proper queue etiquette during the festival time rush.
- Do not carry plastic or non-ecofriendly items, as the temple authorities encourage eco-conscious behaviour.
Explore the Majestic Gopuram
Marvel at the towering seven-tier Dravidian-style gopuram, adorned with intricate carvings of deities and mythological figures. The ornate entrance sets the tone for the temple’s sacred ambience and offers a brilliant example of South Indian temple architecture. Don’t miss the golden finials (kalashas) gleaming in the sun atop the gateway.
Seek Blessings in the Sanctum Sanctorum
Go inside the sanctum to see the fierce but kind idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, which is covered in silk and garlands. The air is thick with incense and chanting, which makes the place feel very spiritual. People who pray here believe that their prayers will give them strength, courage, and protection from evil.
Tourism Board Alliances
Chamundeshwari Temple FAQs
Who is worshipped at Chamundeshwari Temple?
The temple is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, who is thought to be an incarnation of Durga and the one who killed the demon Mahishasura. People look up to her as the fierce protector of Mysore and the royal goddess of the Wodeyar dynasty. The idol in the sanctum is beautifully decorated with silk, gold, and flowers.
What is Chamundeshwari Temple famous for?
Chamundeshwari Temple is famous for being one of the most sacred and iconic temples in Karnataka. Dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, an incarnation of Durga, it sits atop Chamundi Hill and is revered for its spiritual power, Dravidian-style architecture, and panoramic views of Mysore city.
What are the major festivals celebrated at the Chamundeshwari Temple?
The most important festival observed at Chamundeshwari Temple is Dasara (Navaratri). During this time, thousands of devotees congregate for elaborate ceremonies, unique pujas, and cultural events, particularly on Vijayadashami, the tenth day of the celebrations.
