Chamundeshwari Temple stands atop Chamundi Hill, about 13 km from Mysuru, and is a significant place of worship linked to the city’s royal history. You can visit the temple, see other historic religious sites on the hill and take in views across the city.
- Location: Chamundi Hill, about 13 km from Mysuru.
- Temple hours: Open daily
- Access: KSRTC buses run from Mysuru city bus stand to the temple authority area every 20 minutes.
- Walking route: The stepped route to the hilltop has 1,008 steps.
What to See on Chamundi Hill
Chamundi Hill brings together temple history, religious sites and a high vantage point above Mysuru. The hill stands about 3,489 ft above sea level.
The Mysuru district tourism page identifies Chamundeshwari as the titular deity of the Mysuru royal family and as Mahishasura Mardini. Krishnaraja Wodeyar III built the temple gopura with gold finials and arranged festivals and processions in 1827; he also gave the temple a Simhavahana in 1843.
Two other temples on the hill are dedicated to Narayana Swamy and Mahabaleswara. Mahabaleswara is the hill’s oldest temple; a 1128 A.D. inscription records a donation by Hoysala King Vishnuvardhana. The hill’s Nandi is 16 ft (4.8 metres) tall at the front and 25 ft (7.5 metres) long.
Temple Access and Visiting Hours
Opening hours
- Monday to Sunday: 7:30–14:00 and 15:30–18:00 and 19:30–21:00
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
Darshan gate options are ₹30 for Gate 2, ₹100 for Gate 1 and free entry at Gate 3. Online booking is available for special darshan, and Seere Darishuva Kanika Seva is ₹50. Timings and ticket arrangements can change, so check the official site before you go.
If you’re fitting the temple into a broader city day, the one-day Mysore itinerary from the palace to Chamundi Hill connects the hill with other city sights.
How Do You Reach Chamundi Hill?
You can reach the temple area by bus, drive up the hill or take the stepped route. KSRTC buses run from Mysuru city bus stand to the temple authority area every 20 minutes.
The road from Mysuru city centre to the hill is a 13 km drive. For the uphill walk, the stepped route has 1,008 steps; allow for the climb when planning your visit.
Palace Plaza is about an 11-minute walk from Mysore Palace. You can view room options at this central Mysuru hotel while planning a city stay.
Hill Views and Visitor Etiquette
Chamundi Hill offers a high vantage point over Mysuru, alongside its temples and religious landmarks. Keep the hill’s religious setting in mind as you move between the temple area and other sites.
The Sri Chamundeshwari Development Authority declares its area a no-plastic zone. Don’t bring plastic carry bags or leave plastic waste on the hill.
Planning the Return to the City
Allow time to come back down after visiting the temple, especially if you choose the stepped route. The bus service connects the temple authority area with Mysuru city bus stand, so you can use that route for the return journey too.
Navaratri is the temple’s most important festival. It is celebrated for nine days with cultural activities, rituals and community feasts.
FAQs
Where is Chamundeshwari Temple?
The temple stands atop Chamundi Hill, about 13 km from Mysuru.
How many steps lead to the hilltop?
The stepped route to the hilltop has 1,008 steps.
Are there free darshan tickets?
Free entry is available at Gate 3, alongside paid options at Gate 1 and Gate 2.
When is the temple open for darshan?
Open daily. Check the Sri Chamundeshwari Development Authority’s official site before your visit for current arrangements.