Sri Chamundi Temple in Mysore
· Summer: March-May (22°C - 39°C)
· Winter: October-February (13°C - 31°C)
· Monsoon: June-September
Best time to visit:
September-March
Opening Time: 07:30 a.m.
Closing Time: 09:00 p.m. (closed from 02:00 p.m. to 03:30 p.m. and 06:00 p.m. to 07:30 p.m.)
Weekly Holiday: N/A
Entry Fees for Indians
Adults: N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras: N/A
Video Camera: N/A
Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals
Adults:
N/A
Children:
N/A
Cameras:
N/A
Video Camera:
N/A
Dedicated to the presiding deity of Mysore, Goddess Chamundeshwari or Durga (a form of Goddess Sati or Shakti), Chamundi Temple (or Chamundeshwari Temple) is a world-famous Hindu shrine. Located atop Chamundi Hills, where Goddess Chamundeshwari is believed to have killed the demon king Mahishasura, the temple is also a popular Shakti Peetha (among the 51 Shakti Peethas). It is believed that the hair of Goddess Sati fell here and it became one of the 18 Maha Shakti Peethas.
The temple’s sanctum sanctorum accommodates a stone image of the goddess and has a small tower at the top. However, the highlight of the temple is its 7-storey high Gopura (or temple gateway tower) which flaunts intricate carvings and is visible from a distance. Another attraction is the huge statue of Nandi Bull (mount of Lord Shiva) made in granite and located alongside the steps leading to the temple.
The temple car (chariot) used during festivals is another highlight of the temple. Silver temple doors and Dravidian style construction add to the beauty of the temple. Originally built by the Hoysala Rulers in the 12th century, the temple was improved by the Vijayanagara Empire Rulers and Mysore’s Wodeyar Dynasty Rulers over centuries.
Connectivites
Road:
The temple is located about 13 km. from the heart of Mysore City. Road in good condition allow the local public buses as well as the private vehicles and taxis to reach the temple. Alternatively, a trek on more than 1,000 stairs is an adventurous route to reach the temple.
Railway:
Mysore Junction is only about 12 km. from the temple and is connected to many popular cities by train. Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available at the station to reach the temple.
Airway:
Mysore’s domestic airport with regular flights to and from Bangalore is about 15 km. from the temple. Prefer to hire taxis from here for convenient road trip from the airport.