The famous Sri Chamundeswari Temple is located on top of picturesque Chamundi Hills near Mysore in the state of Karnataka. Standing as the crown jewel of Mysore, Chamundi Hills is the abode of all powerful Goddess, Chamundi or Chamundeswari. It is at a height of 1065 meters above sea leave and about 800 feet above Mysore city. On the top of the hill is the Chamundeshwari temple that dates back to the 11th century. Goddess Chamundeshwari is an incarnation of Goddess Parvathi who took this form to destroy the demon king Mahishasura.
The temple has a seven story tall and 40 metre high 'gopuram' adorned with intricate carvings. Major attraction of the temple is the idol of the Chamunda Devi which is said to be made of solid gold. Even the gates of the temple are made of silver. A 16-foot-high statue of the demon Mahishasura near the temple is another significant feature of Sri Chamundeswari Temple. This is so because Mahishasura was slain by the goddess Chamundeswari (Durga or Parvati) to protect the area. Hence Chamundi Devi is also lovingly known as the Goddess of Mysore. The word 'Chamundi' means terrible, and this is another name for Parvati, who is in an angry mood to slay the demon.
Tuesdays and Fridays are considered to be the auspicious days to visit the Chamundi Devi temple hence a large number of devotees throng the temple on these days. Best time to visit the temple is during 'Dussehra Festival' in September or October.
How to reach
State Government buses (KSRTC) ply regularly to the temple from Mysore City.