Chamundeshwari Temple

The Chamundeshwari Temple, also known as Chamundeshwari Temple Mysore or Sri Chamundeshwari Temple, is a prominent Hindu shrine located on the top of Chamundi Hills, about 13 kilometers from the city of Mysuru in Karnataka, India. This sacred temple is named after Chamundeshwari, a fierce form of Shakti, who has been venerated for centuries by the Maharajas of Mysuru.

Chamundeshwari, referred to as Nada Devi (state Goddess) by the people of Karnataka, is deeply revered in the region. The Chamundeshwari Temple stands majestically at an elevation of around 3300 feet above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

According to legend, Goddess Durga, in her incarnation as Chamundeshwari, defeated the demon king Mahishasura on the very hill where the temple now stands. This historic victory led to the place being named Mahishooru, which means ‘Place of Mahisha’. Over time, the British anglicized it to Mysore, and it was eventually Kannada-ized to Mysuru.

The Chamundeshwari Temple Mysore is not only a place of worship but also a significant cultural and historical landmark. Pilgrims and tourists from all over visit Sri Chamundeshwari Temple to seek blessings and witness the architectural grandeur of this ancient temple. Another name associated with this sacred site is the Gowdagere Chamundeshwari Temple, highlighting its prominence in local culture and tradition.

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Chamundeshwari Temple History

Chamundeshwari Temple, built in the Dravidian architectural style, has a distinctive quadrangular shape. It features an impressive seven-tier tower called a ‘gopuram’ and an equally grand entrance known as ‘dwara’. These structures are visible from miles away. The temple’s silver gates offer a glimpse into its royal past. The complex includes the Sanctum Sanctorum, Navaranga Hall, Antharala Mantapa, and Prakara. Above the Sanctum Sanctorum is a small tower called ‘vimana’.

Originally a small shrine, the temple took its current form due to expansions by the Mysore Maharajas. It is believed that animal sacrifices were once performed here, a practice that ended in the 18th century. The Mysore rulers oversaw the temple’s care.

Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar built the 1000 steps leading to the temple in 1659. During his reign, the massive statue of Nandi, Lord Shiva’s bull, was also created. This statue, standing 16 feet tall and 25 feet long, is one of India’s largest Nandi statues, adorned with beautiful pendant bells around its neck.

In 1827, Krishnaraja Wodeyar III renovated the temple, including the construction of its grand entrance. He also gifted a lion-shaped vehicle called ‘Simha-vahana’ and other vehicles used in religious processions. In front of the Sanctum Sanctorum stands a 6-foot statue of Krishnaraja Wodeyar III, with statues of his three wives, Ramavilasa, Lakshmivilasa, and Krishnavilasa, beside him.

The pyramidal tower at the entrance, featuring a small statue of Ganesha, enhances the temple’s beauty. The silver-plated doorway showcases various images of the Goddess. Over the years, many rulers contributed to the temple’s development and donated valuable jewels and items to Goddess Chamundeshwari. Today, devotees offer coconuts, fruits, and flowers to the deity.

Chamundeshwari Temple is a perfect blend of architectural beauty and deep religious significance. On the hill, there are two more temples dedicated to Lakshmi Narayana Swamy and Mahabaleswara. The Sri Mahabaleshwara temple is believed to be the oldest on the hill. Climbing the steps to the temple is thought to help devotees absolve their past sins.

The chamundeshwari temple history is rich and captivating, reflecting its significance in the region. Exploring the chamundeshwari temple mysore history offers insight into its architectural and cultural importance.

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Chamundeshwari Temple Timings

The Chamundeshwari Temple in Mysore has specific visiting hours for devotees. Here are the Chamundeshwari Temple timings:

• Darshana and Pooja: 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM, and 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
• Abhisheka: 6:00 AM to 7:30 AM and 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM.
• Abhisheka on Fridays: 5:00 AM to 6:30 AM.

Additionally, the temple provides free meals, known as Dasoha, to devotees every day from 12:30 PM to 2:30 PM.

Here’s a detailed table for Chamundeshwari Temple timings in Mysore:

These Chamundeshwari Temple Mysore timings are designed to help devotees plan their visit effectively. The Chamundeshwari Temple timings Mysore are structured to accommodate various rituals and ensure that all devotees have a pleasant experience.

For more information on the Chamundeshwari Temple Mysore timings, you can visit the temple’s official website or contact the temple administration. Remember to check the Chamundeshwari Temple timings before planning your visit to make the most of your trip.

How to Reach Chamundeshwari Temple

Chamundeshwari Temple, located 13 kilometers from Mysore Junction train station, is easily accessible. Auto-rickshaws are available with reasonable fares, taking about 30 minutes to reach Chamundi Hills. Additionally, KSRTC buses run every 20 minutes from Mysore city bus stand to Sri Chamundeshwari Temple, ensuring a comfortable journey for travelers.

Places to Stay Near Chamundeshwari Temple

For those looking to stay near Chamundeshwari Temple, there are basic dormitory accommodations available on Chamundi Hill. Mysuru city, situated 12 kilometers away, offers a variety of lodging options to suit all budgets. Whether you’re looking for luxury hotels or budget-friendly stays, Mysuru has it all.

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Best Time to Visit Chamundeshwari Temple

Chamundi Hills provide the best views of Mysore city between September and October, making it an ideal time to visit Chamundeshwari Temple Mysore. The weather remains pleasant throughout the year, but the temple sees the highest number of visitors during the Dussehra and Diwali festivals in these months. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere of the temple both at dawn and dusk.

Attractions Near Chamundeshwari Temple

Apart from the Chamundeshwari Temple Mysore, there are several interesting sites nearby. You can explore the Mahabaladri and Narayanaswamy temples, as well as the Mahishasura and Nandi statues. Chamundi Hills also house the beautiful Lalitha Palace, belonging to the Mysore royal family. The Maharajas used to stay here during their visits to the hills. The palace, situated on the hilltop, offers a stunning bird’s-eye view of Mysore city and its surroundings.

More About Chamundeshwari Temple

Chamundeshwari Temple photos capture the essence of its architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance. This ancient temple, dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, attracts numerous devotees and tourists every year. The temple’s intricate carvings and historical significance make it a must-visit destination.

Whether you are a spiritual seeker or a history enthusiast, Shri Chamundeshwari Temple offers a unique experience. Don’t forget to check out Chamundeshwari Temple photos to get a glimpse of its grandeur before your visit.

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FAQs on Chamundeshwari Temple

What is special about Chamundeshwari Temple?

The Chamundeshwari Temple, located 12 km from Mysuru, is situated on the Chamundi Hills. This temple, built in the Dravidian architectural style in the 17th century, is dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, the patron deity of the Mysuru Royal Family. The temple features a richly adorned image of the deity and a large statue of Mahishasura at the entrance.

Who is the goddess of Chamundeshwari Temple?

Goddess Chamundeshwari, also known as Nada Devi (state Goddess) by the people of Karnataka, is the main deity of the Chamundeshwari Temple. It is believed that Goddess Durga defeated the demon king Mahishasura on this hill, which is around 3300 feet above sea level.

What is the cost of entry to Chamundeshwari Temple?

Special entry darshan tickets at the Chamundeshwari Temple cost 30 INR per person, while VIP darshan tickets are priced at 100 INR per person. The darshan and pooja timings are from 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM, 3:30 PM to 6:00 PM, and 7:30 PM to 9:00 PM. Abhisheka timings are 6:00 AM to 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM to 7:30 PM, with special Friday timings from 5:00 AM to 6:30 AM.

What is the history of Chamundi Hill?

Chamundi Hill was historically known as Marbbala Betta or Maabala Betta. An earlier temple dedicated to God Mahabala (a form of Lord Shiva) was situated on the hill, making it a holy site as early as the 10th century. The Chamundeshwari Temple was later built near this earlier temple.

What are the benefits of worshipping Chamunda?

Worshipping Goddess Chamunda can protect individuals from negative forces and bring positivity into their lives. It is believed that all harmful plans of enemies will fail and they will lose their power to act against the worshipper.

Is Chamundeshwari an avatar of Parvati?

Yes, Chamundeshwari is considered a form of Parvati. According to the Matsya Purana, she, along with other matrikas, was created by Lord Shiva to help him kill the demon Andhakasura, who could regenerate from his dripping blood, similar to the demon Raktabīja.

How to worship Chamundeshwari?

Sri Chamundeshwari is worshipped once a month according to the Telugu calendar through a program called Samaavesham. In this program, the deity is worshipped in the form of a photo, a holy vessel (Kalasham), and a Shreechakram.