One of the most well-known temples in Mysore is Chamundeshwari Temple, which is perched atop Chamundi Hills. This temple, located roughly a thousand steps from the hill’s base, is devoted to the Goddess Chamundeshwari, also known as Chamundi, the patron goddess of both Mysore and the Mysore Royal Family. The goddess uses her “trishul” to kill the demon while perched atop a lion. This temple, which is still regarded as one of India’s most important due to its striking architecture, immense historical significance, and serene surroundings in the Chamundi Hills, draws visitors from all over the world in addition to devotees who come to see its unwavering magnificence.
The Mysore Chamundeshwari Temple’s History and Architecture:
With a quadrangular design, Chamundeswari Temple was constructed in the Dravidian architectural style. It features a striking seven-tiered tower known as the “gopuram” or “gopura,” as well as an equally commanding entrance called the “dwara.” Even from a great distance away, these two are visible. A glimpse of the royal past can still be seen through its silver gates. Sanctum Sanctorum, Navaranga Hall, Antharala Mantapa, and Prakara are also included in the temple. The sanctum sanctorum is topped by a little tower known as “vimana.”
It was once a tiny temple, but the Mysore Maharajas’ extensions gave it its current configuration. Additionally, it is said that animal sacrifices were once carried out here but were discontinued in the eighteenth century. The rulers of Mysore used to be in charge of the temple.
Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar constructed the 1000 steps leading up to the temple in 1659. The enormous sculpture of Lord Shiva’s bull, Nandi, was constructed during his rule. It’s regarded as one of the biggest Nandi statues in India, standing 16 feet tall and 25 feet long. Entwined around Nandi’s neck are fascinating pendant bells.
Krishnaraja Wodeyar III restored the temple in 1827. The temple’s imposing entrance was constructed during his reign. Along with a number of other vehicles that are currently utilized for religious and temple processions, Krishnaraja Wodeyar also presented the temple with a lion-shaped vehicle known as the “Simha-vahana.” Not to be overlooked is the statue of Maharaja Krishnaraja Wodeyar III, standing six feet tall in front of the sanctum sanctorum. On either side of him are also statues representing his three wives, Ramavilasa, Lakshmivilasa, and Krishnavilasa.
The Dravidian-style pyramidal tower at the entrance, adorned with a diminutive statue of Ganesha, enhances the allure of this temple. The doorway is plated with silver and features numerous images of the Goddess.
Numerous monarchs have made contributions to the temple’s construction and presented Goddess Chamundeshwari with a variety of priceless jewels and objects. Devotees now present the goddess with coconuts, fruits, and flowers.
This temple is the ideal fusion of piousness, strong religious feelings, and beautiful architecture. Two additional temples honoring Mahabaleswara and Lakshmi Narayana Swamy can be found atop the hill. The oldest temple on the hill is thought to be Sri Mahabaleshwara Temple. It is thought that by ascending the steps to the temple, devotees can atone for their previous transgressions.
Chamundi Hills
At a height of roughly 3,489 feet above sea level, the Chamundi Hills are a magnificent sight that can be seen from every direction in Mysore. The distance between these hills and Mysore is roughly 13 km. Approximately 800 feet elevate these hills over the city of Mysore.
The “Skanda Purana” and other ancient Hindu texts make reference to these hills. These texts mention a place called Trimuta Kshetra, which is surrounded by eight hills, one of which is the Chamundi Hills. The hill was formerly known as Mahabaladri, after the Lord Shiva-focused Mahabaleswara Temple. In addition, it’s the hills’ oldest temple. The hill afterwards gained the name “Chamundi Hills,” in honor of the Goddess Chamundi.
Those who visit the Chamundi hills can get an aerial view of Mysore. Views of Mysore Palace, Dasara Exhibition grounds, Lalitha Mahal Palace, etc. are available to tourists.
Chamundeshwari Temple Timings:
At samundeshwari Temple mysore, the darshan and puja timings are 07.30 AM–02.00 PM, 03.30 PM–06.00 PM, and 07.30 PM–09.00 PM. Visiting during these hours is ideal for those who wish to attend the pooja. The hours for abhishekam are 6 a.m. to 7.30 a.m. in the morning and 6 p.m. to 7.30 p.m. in the evening. It is from 5:00 AM to 6:30 AM on Friday. Additionally, free lunches are served to devotees every day between 12:30 and 2:30.
Reaching Chamundeshwari Temple:
The Chamundi Hills are visible when traveling through Mysore. These hills are easily accessible by road and are only 13 km away. The road connects it to both Nanjangud and Mysore. Travelers can go to the hills by bus or by hiring a taxi. From Mysore, there are frequent buses operated by the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) that travel to the hills every less than twenty minutes. Carrying plastic bags is prohibited for visitors to Chamundi Hills, as the area has been designated as a “no plastic zone.”
Visit Mysore chamundeshwari temple get blessing from the goddess to get all wealth. To know more about temples visit the official website of Liturgical Temples.