Chamundi Hill Temple, Mysore

Chamundi Hills is around 175 kms from Bangalore; located around 35 kms from Mysore City. Driving in a car might take you around 2 hours to 2 1/2 hours depending on traffic conditions.

Chamundi Hills, the home of Goddess Chamundeshwari is about 335 metres high, can be reached by a 13 km road from Mysore.The temple of Chamudeshwari, the patron goddess of the Mysore Maharajas, has been held high in reverence for centuries, associated with the Hoysala ruler Vishnuvardhana, in 12th century and Vijayanagara rulers, in 17th century. In 1659, Maharaja Dodda Devaraja built a flight of one thousand steps leads up to the summit of the hill which is at a height of about 3000 feet.

Chamraja Wodeyar IV is said to have worshipped here in 1573. It is believed that he was saved from a lightning hit miraculously owing to the blessing of the Goddess. Krishnaraja III (late 18th century) built the temple tower and presented the Nakshatramalika jewel with sanskrit verses inscribed on it.

The architectural beauty of Chamundi Hill temple will awake the photographer inside you.

Mahishasura Mardhini, the one who vanquished the demon Mahishasura, Chamundeeswari, or Durga is the fierce form of Shakti. A colorful gigantic image of the demon, Mahishasura greets visitors as they reach the summit of the hill. During the reign of Dodda Devaraja, this statue was built, along with the steps leading up the hill.

Nandi, Lord Shiva’s Bull, a monolith is found at the 800th step on the hill. It is over 15 feet high and 24 feet long. One can find several idols of Nandi nearby. There are many shrines dedicated to Shiva Mahabaleshwar and Lakshmi Narayana.

During the Dasara festival, on Vijayadashami, the Jumboo Savari, traditional Dasara procession goes onto the streets of Mysore city. Idol of the Goddess Chamundeshwari which is placed on a Golden mantapa, on the top of a decorated elephant. Balarama, the elephant has been performing this great venture from the past 9 years.

The Goddess Chamundeshwari is worshipped by the royal couple and other invitees. The summit of the Chamundi hills offers a panoramic view of Mysore's landmarks like the race course, the Lalitha Mahal palace, Mysore Palace, Karanji and Kukkarahalli lakes.

Statue of Mahishasura

Not just the statue of Nandi, you can find many cows on top of Chamundi Hills which the Hindus consider sacred.

Once you reach Chamundi Hills Mysore, I am sure you will be able to find many people whom you would find good subjects for photography.

I would say Chamundi Hills is a must go if you are planning for a one day or two day weekend trip to Mysore.