Chamundi Hills & Temple
1,000 steps up to the goddess who gives Mysuru its name, past a giant monolithic Nandi.
- Timings
- Around 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM
- Entry fee
- Free · special darshan approx. ₹100
- Time needed
- 2 – 3 hours
- Best time
- Early morning
About Chamundi Hills & Temple
Chamundeshwari Temple sits at 1,062 m atop Chamundi Hill, dedicated to the goddess who slew the demon Mahishasura — from whom Mysuru takes its name. The 12th-century shrine has a seven-storey gopuram, and a huge statue of Mahishasura stands nearby. The traditional approach is the roughly 1,000-step climb, passing a monolithic Nandi bull carved in 1659 from a single block of black granite at step 700 or so. A road runs to the top for those who would rather not.
Insider tips
- The Nandi at around step 700 is worth the climb even if you drive back down
- Midday closure catches people out — check timings before setting off
- The view over Mysuru is best in the clear air after rain
Chamundi Hills & Temple — common questions
What are the Chamundi Hills & Temple timings?
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Chamundi Hills & Temple is open Around 7:30 AM – 2:00 PM and 3:30 PM – 6:00 PM.
What is the entry fee for Chamundi Hills & Temple?
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Entry: Free · special darshan approx. ₹100.
How much time do you need at Chamundi Hills & Temple?
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Plan for roughly 2 – 3 hours.
What is the best time to visit Chamundi Hills & Temple?
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Early morning.
How crowded does Chamundi Hills & Temple get?
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High crowd levels overall — go early to avoid the worst of it.
Nearby
More to see in Mysuru
PalaceMysore Palace (Amba Vilas)
India's most visited palace — and on Sunday nights, 100,000 bulbs light the whole facade.
ParkBrindavan Gardens
Terraced gardens below the KRS dam, with a musical fountain show after dark.
HeritageSt. Philomena's Cathedral
A neo-Gothic cathedral modelled on Cologne Cathedral, with 175-foot twin spires.
ParkMysore Zoo
One of India's oldest and best-run zoos, opened in 1892 by the Maharaja.