Chamundi Hills Travel Guide: The Abode of Goddess Chamundeshwari In Mysore (2024)
You may not be aware but Mysore is considered as one of the largest cities in the Indian state of Karnataka. Owing to the fact that it houses a plethora of top tourist places to visit in Karnataka, it is known to add significantly to the tourism industry of the state. Also referred to as the city of palaces, Mysore boasts of having a rich history and great tourist attractions. The Chamundi Hills in Mysore is one top tourist place to visit in Karnataka. These mighty hills in Mysore derive their unique name from the Goddess Chamundeshwari. Due to its natural serenity, tranquil atmosphere and peaceful surroundings, the place receives a number of visitors throughout the year. In this article, we have brought for you all the important information which you must know before visiting this beautiful place. Continue reading to know more!
Why Should You Visit The Chamundi Hills In Mysore?
If you are looking forward to spending some quality time in peace amidst natural surroundings away from the mayhem of the fast-paced city lives, then Chamundi Hills is just the right place for you to visit. Lying at a whopping height of about 1000 metres above the sea level, Chamundi hills are located approximately 13 km east of Mysore. Deriving its name from Goddess Chamundeshwari, the place also has a temple dedicated to the goddess by the same name. If you are still searching for more reasons to visit the Chamundi hills, then worry not because we have the list of reasons ready for you.
- The Legend of Chamundi Hills: There is a popular legend that circulates here. It is believed that many years ago, being gifted a boon by Brahma that no man could kill him, a buffalo demon named Mahishasura wreaked havoc on earth and heaven. Gods found a loophole in the boon and blessed Goddess Durga with divine powers to make her stronger than Mahishasura. Goddess Chamundeshwari (an avatar of Goddess Durga), with her new powers and lion as a vehicle, fought Mahishasura atop a hill for ten days and finally managed to kill him. Thereby, it is in her honor that the hill was named Chamundi Hill.
- The Chamundeshwari Temple: This temple is one of the top tourist places to visit in Mysore, Karnataka and a big highlight of this area. Sitting atop the main hill, visitors have to climb a series of 1008 stone stairs to reach it. The temple houses a statue of Mahishasura and a sculpted statue of Chamundeshwari. The temple holds great significance among devotees.
Image Source - Nandi Statue: One of the ionic states of Mysore, halfway up the hill you can find a statue of Nandi, a bull that is Lord Shiva’s vehicle. This 7.6 m long and 4.9 m tall statue is carved out of a single black granite rock and is a great site to see.
Image Source - Great Trekking Opportunities: The steps are easier to climb in comparison to go cross country. However, the latter option offers many beautiful views. It is recommended to go for an early morning trek. The end result will be definitely worth all your efforts.
The Chamundi Hills Timings
The visiting hours of the Chamundi Hills are- 7:30 AM to 2 PM in the morning, then during noon it is from 3.30 PM to 6 PM, and lastly the evening timings are from 7.30 PM to 9 PM. The Chamundi Hills also house the Chamundeshwari temple which is open from 7.30 AM till 9 PM every day. However, it closes during lunch time and twilight, like other temples.
What Is The Best Way To Reach The Chamundi Hills In Mysore?
Chamundi hills are considered to be a top tourist place to visit in Karnataka and hence, they are accessible by almost all means of transport.
- By Air: For all those people who are coming from other parts of Karnataka or India and prefer to fly, then Bengaluru International Airport is the nearest one. The Chamundi Hills are located at a distance of about 160 km from Bangalore. You can take a cab or hire a taxi from the airport to reach the hills.
- By Rail: The nearest railway station to reach the Chamundi Hills is the Mysore railway station. It is located at a distance of approximately 13 km from the Chamundi Hills. You can easily find a bus or a taxi from the railway station to reach the hills.
- By Road: You will be pleased to know that Chamundi hills are accessible by roads as well. They can be reached by the road going to Mysore and Nanjangud. You can travel by a personal vehicle, hire a taxi or go by bus too. Bus service is provided by the Karnataka State Road transport corporation from Mysore to the hills every 20 minutes.
Best Time To Visit The Chamundi Hills In Mysore
Though one can visit the Chamundi Hills any time, during the early morning hours and at dusk, the place oozes exceptional charm. Also, for the best experience it is recommended to visit the Chamundi hills during Dussehra festivals. In the late hours of the day during the festival, the view of Mysore from the top of the hills is truly magical. You can witness the beauty of the whole city fully lighted up.
Where To Stay Near The Chamundi Hills?
Since there are plenty of good accommodation options available near Chamundi Hills, you can stay here. Some of the hotels you can consider are- Hotel Mysore Palace (about 1.1 km away), Lalitha Mahal Palace Hotel (about 1.5 km away) and Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel Mysore (about 4.3 km away).
What Are The Different Places To See Near The Chamundi Hills?
There are many great tourist places to see near the Chamundi Hills. Some of the places which you can easily include in your itinerary to double the fun are:
- The Godly Museum: Located right opposite the Chamundi hills bus stop, this is a divinity themed museum. It houses a series of spiritual paintings that are a delight to watch.
Credit- OdaOdaOda Image Source
- The Kishkindha Moolika Bonsai Garden: Spreading over 4 acres, this garden boasts of housing more than 450 miniature trees. It also houses a deer park.
No matter whether you are a photographer, a nature lover, a true devotee or a wanderlust person, the Chamundi hills will prove to be your ideal attraction spot.
