The Sri Chamundeshwari Temple at Mysore in Karnataka is a popular Hindu temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari who is an avatar of Durga and stands on top of the hill called Chamundi Hill that rises to 1,000 meters above sea level. Many people visit this shrine every year, both worshipers and sightseers, since it has always been perceived as a holy place and one of the most notable landmarks located near Mysore
Another temple is situated at the foothill which is in Uttanahalli called Jwalamalini Sri Tripura Sundari Temple. This goddess is considered the sister of Chamundeshwari who helped her at the battlefield to slay the demon Raktabīja
Chamundeshwari is called by the people of Karnataka as Nada Devi.There is a huge granite Nandi on the 700th step on the hill in front of a small Shiva temple a short distance away. Believed to be sculpted in the 2nd century CE, this Nandi is over 15 feet high and 24 feet long with exquisite bells around its neck
Story of the temple
The origin of Sri Chamundeshwari Temple is intertwined with the legend of Goddess Chamundeshwari’s victory over the demon Mahishasura. According to mythology, Mahishasura, a powerful demon, wreaked havoc in the heavens and on earth. To restore peace, the gods created Goddess Chamundeshwari, who fought Mahishasura for nine days and nights. On the tenth day, she vanquished him, and this day is celebrated as Vijayadashami, a part of the Navaratri festival.
Architectural significance
The building has a seven-tiered gopuram or the high, curvilinear tower which is a focal point of temple architecture. The sanctum enshrines the idol of Chamundeshwari which is seated and weapon holding demon head showing the victory of good over evil. There are also subsidiary shrines to various deities, a giant statue of Mahishasura – the demon killed by Chamundi, and the biggest Nandi statue in India.
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Key Details:
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee for visiting the temple.
Aarti Timings:
- Morning: 7:30 AM
- Afternoon: 1:00 PM
- Evening: 7:30 PM
Visiting Hours: The temple is open from 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM
- 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM
- 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM daily.
- On Sundays the timing is from 7.30 am to 6pm and 7.30 pm to 9pm
Contribution of Seva of Sarees to Goddess Chamundeshwari can be booked one month in advance.
Accommodation and facilities
Chamundi Hill Guest House: The temple administration runs a guest house near the temple, providing basic but comfortable accommodation for pilgrims.
Dasoha (free meals) is arranged for devotees daily.
Parking: There is ample parking space available for vehicles near the temple Donation
Service – there are various donation boxes in the temple premises apart from that the temple has an official website from which devotees can do the donation, Devotees can also pay via cheques from the administrative office of temple
Prasad and annadanam
At Sri Chamundeshwari Temple in Mysore, devotees can receive prasadam, a blessed offering, after worship. The temple also runs an Annadanam program, providing free meals to devotees
and visitors daily. This charitable initiative ensures that all visitors can partake in a simple, nutritious meal, embodying the spirit of community and service.
How to reach?
By Air:
Nearest Airport: Mysore Airport (MYQ), 12 km from the city center. Alternatively, Kempegowda International Airport in Bangalore is 170 km away
Bus: Regular city buses operate from Mysore City Bus Stand to the temple base. Then take a shuttle bus or trek to the temple.
By Train:
Nearest Railway Station: Mysore Junction (MYS).
Annual and monthly events
Annual Events:
Chamundeshwari Jayanti: Celebrated in honor of the goddess’s birthday. Dasara Festival: The temple is a focal point during Mysore Dasara, featuring special pujas and cultural activities.
Ashada Shukravara: Special rituals and prayers held every Friday in the month of Ashada (June-July).
Navratri: Navratri is also observed as a very important festival
Monthly Events:
Full Moon (Purnima): Special rituals and poojas.
New Moon (Amavasya)- Devotees perform special prayer
In the month of Ashadha, Fridays are considered particularly auspicious. Lakhs of devotees throng the temple during this occasion. Another festival celebrated during this month is Chamundi Jayanti.
FAQS
What are the temple’s opening hours?
Generally open from 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM.
Is there an entry fee?
No, entry is free.
What is the dress code?
Modest clothing is recommended. Traditional attire is appreciated.
Are there any specific rituals or pujas for visitors?
Yes, visitors can participate in various pujas and offer special prayers.
Is parking available?
Limited parking is available near the temple.
Are there facilities for devotees?
Yes, there are basic amenities including restrooms and a small canteen.
How to reach the temple from the city center?
Accessible by car, taxi, auto-rickshaw, and local buses
Is photography allowed?
Generally photography is not allowed inside the temple premise
Are electronic gadgets allowed?
Usage of mobile phones and other electronic gadgets inside the temple is typically restricted
Devotees are requested not to bring the plastic carry bags
Address and contact information
Address:
Chamundeshwari Temple,
Chamundi Hill,
Mysore, Karnataka 570010,
India
Contact Information:
Email : eochamunditemple@gmail.com
Office Phone :+91 08212590027
Temple Phone : +91 08212590127
Fax : 0821 – 2590082
Website: https://chamundeshwaritemple.in/
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