Pilgrimage
Chamundi Hills
A temple-topped hill above Mysuru, home to the Chamundeshwari Temple, a giant monolithic Nandi bull, and sweeping city views. Rising about 1,000 metres above Mysuru, Chamundi Hills takes its name from Chamundeshwari, the fierce form of the goddess Durga worshipped by the Wadiyar rulers as their family deity, whose gold-crowned temple at the summit dates in its present form to the 17th century.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Overview
Rising about 1,000 metres above Mysuru, Chamundi Hills takes its name from Chamundeshwari, the fierce form of the goddess Durga worshipped by the Wadiyar rulers as their family deity, whose gold-crowned temple at the summit dates in its present form to the 17th century. A flight of roughly 1,000 stone steps, commissioned by Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar, climbs the hillside past a monolithic Nandi bull carved in 1659, while a large statue of the demon Mahishasura, slain by the goddess according to legend, stands near the summit road. Chamundi Hills sits at an elevation of 760 m and is typically explored in about half day. The most favourable months to visit are January, December, June, and July, when conditions are best suited for sightseeing. Nearby points of interest include Chamundeshwari Temple, Statue of Mahishasura, and Chamundi Hill Steps. Other notable highlights include 1000-step climb past carved stone figures, chamundeshwari Temple’s gopuram at dawn, and giant monolithic Nandi bull statue. It falls within Karnataka, India.
Highlights
- 1000-step climb past carved stone figures
- Chamundeshwari Temple’s gopuram at dawn
- Giant monolithic Nandi bull statue
- Panoramic Mysuru city view from top
- Mahishasura statue at hill’s base
- Quiet morning light on temple courtyard
Getting There
Things To Do
Walk the hilltop promenade for panoramic Mysuru views
After visiting the temple, stroll along the paved walkway on the western edge of the hilltop, where you can see the entire city of Mysuru, including the palace and Kukkarahalli Lake. On clear days, the view stretches for miles, especially at golden hour.
30 to 45 minutes
Seek blessings at Sri Chamundeshwari Temple
Visit the main sanctum of the Wadiyar dynasty’s tutelary goddess, where the idol is adorned in silk and jewels. Observe the morning or evening aarti (ritual lamp offering) for a deeply cultural experience, and note the intricate gopuram (tower) above the entrance.
1 hour
Climb the 1,000-step stone stairway to the temple
Ascend the ancient, carved steps that wind up the hill, passing small shrines and monkeys along the way. It’s a pilgrim’s route with a rewarding sense of achievement at the top, though you can rest at the few shaded benches.
1.5 to 2 hours (depending on pace)
Observe the sunset from the southern lookout point
Walk to the southern edge of the hilltop, near the temple’s outer wall, where a small open platform overlooks the surrounding plains and distant hills. The sunset here is a local favourite, with the sky turning orange over the Deccan plateau, and you can hear temple bells ringing below.
45 minutes
View the giant statue of Nandi (the bull)
Stand before the 15-foot-tall monolithic granite Nandi, carved in 1659, located about halfway up the hill on the main road. It is one of the largest Nandi statues in India, and you can walk around it to appreciate its detailed bells and garlands.
20 minutes
Visit the small Mahabaleshwara Cave Temple (inside the hill)
Descend a short, steep flight of steps near the main temple to a cool, dim cave shrine dedicated to Lord Shiva. It is less crowded than the main temple, offering a quiet, meditative spot with a natural rock ceiling and a small lingam.
30 minutes
Travel Tips
Book a Guide or Use the Audio Tour for Group History
The temple’s history and the giant Nandi statue are best understood with a local guide, which costs about ₹200 for a group of 5-10. Alternatively, download a free audio guide on your phone beforehand, and use one speaker so everyone can hear without crowding.
Start Early to Beat Crowds and Heat
Begin your climb or drive up Chamundi Hills by 7:30 AM, as temperatures rise sharply by mid-morning and the temple queues get long. This also gives you cooler weather for the 1000 steps if you choose to walk, though seniors should consider the road option.
Use the Free Shuttle or Taxi for the Ascent
For group travellers, hire a single auto-rickshaw or taxi from the base to the top — it costs around ₹300-₹400 and saves energy for exploring the temple complex. Alternatively, the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC) runs a frequent, very affordable bus from Mysuru Palace bus stand directly to the hilltop.
Wear Comfortable, Non-Slip Footwear and Carry Water
The stone steps and temple floors can be slippery, especially after light rain or due to oil from offerings. Carry a small backpack with at least one water bottle per person, and wear closed-toe shoes with good grip — avoid chappals for the climb.
Plan for the 1000 Steps Only in Small Groups with Rest Stops
If your group is fit enough, take the steps but break them into segments — rest at the two intermediate shrines (Nandi and the small temple halfway). Never attempt the full climb in one go; keep a slow, steady pace and let the slowest member set the rhythm.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can drive or take a taxi or local bus up the winding road to the top, which is the easiest and most common way. For those who want to avoid the steep climb, there is also a ropeway (cable car) that runs from the foothills to the top, though it’s best to check its operating hours before you go. The 1000 steps are only recommended for very fit and agile travellers, not for senior groups.
The main draw is the Chamundeshwari Temple, dedicated to the goddess, but you should also see the massive 5-meter-tall statue of Nandi (the bull) on the way up, which is carved from a single rock. At the top, you’ll get panoramic views of Mysuru city and the surrounding plains, especially beautiful at sunset. There are also small shrines and a peaceful garden area near the temple.
Yes, there are several small snack stalls and a few proper eateries near the temple and at the foothills, offering South Indian meals, tea, coffee, and bottled water. Clean public restrooms are available near the main parking area and close to the temple entrance, though they may require a small fee. For senior groups, it’s wise to carry your own water and light snacks, as options are basic and can get crowded.
Plan for about 2 to 3 hours, which includes the drive up, a relaxed darshan (temple visit), and time to enjoy the viewpoints and the Nandi statue. The site is quite senior-friendly if you use the road or ropeway, as there is minimal walking once you are near the temple, and there are benches and rest areas. However, the temple queues can be long on weekends and during festivals, so try to visit on a weekday morning to avoid fatigue.
Yes, the temple follows a strict dress code — men must remove their shirts and wear a dhoti or a lungi (available for rent or purchase near the entrance), while women are expected to wear a saree or a salwar kameez; Western-style trousers, shorts, and skirts are not allowed inside. You must also remove your footwear before entering the temple premises. Photography is not permitted inside the inner sanctum, though you can take pictures of the exterior.
Suggested Itineraries
2 Days in Chamundi Hills
Day 1
Begin your visit with a gentle climb up Chamundi Hills, either by vehicle or a slow walk up the 1,000 steps if you are fit, to soak in the morning breeze and panoramic views of Mysuru. Spend time at the Chamundeshwari Temple, then explore the giant Nandi statue and the smaller shrines nearby. In the afternoon, head downhill to the Lalitha Mahal Palace grounds for a short photo stop, and end with a relaxed stroll around the nearby Mysuru Palace exterior before resting.
- Visit Chamundeshwari Temple and offer prayers; take in the carved gopuram and the idol of Goddess Chamundi.
- Walk to the 4.8-meter-tall monolithic Nandi (bull) statue, about 800 steps down from the temple, and enjoy the view of the city below.
- Drive to the base of the hill and stop at the Lalitha Mahal Palace (view from outside) and the nearby Karanji Lake for a short bird-watching walk.
Day 2
Dedicate this day to the cultural heart of Mysuru, starting with the grand Mysuru Palace, then moving to the quieter temples and gardens that complement the Chamundi Hills experience. In the afternoon, return to the foothills for a shorter visit to the Chamundi Hill’s side attractions, including the Chandramouleshwara Temple and the ancient steps viewpoint. End with a sunset view from the hill’s top, avoiding the crowded staircase by taking a car up.
- Morning visit to Mysuru Palace (inside), focusing on the Durbar Hall, armoury, and the carved wooden doors; allow 2 hours.
- After lunch, visit the Sri Nandi Temple at the hill’s base and then drive up to the Chandramouleshwara Temple, a smaller Shiva shrine with a quiet courtyard.
- Late afternoon, reach the Chamundi Hill viewpoint near the main temple for sunset, then walk down the first 100 steps to see the 11th-century inscriptions on the rock face.
Plan Your Own Trip
Tell us what you're looking for and how many days you have — we'll instantly put together a personalised itinerary for Chamundi Hills.
Tour Packages for Chamundi Hills
Planning a trip to Chamundi Hills?
Talk to our travel experts for a customised group tour package.