About Chamundeshwari

Sri Chamundeshwari — a fierce, luminous form of Adi Shakti — is venerated as the kula devata (clan goddess) of the Wadiyar dynasty of Mysore. Her name derives from Chanda and Munda, the demon generals she slew in her form as Durga.

The hill itself is named for her: Chamundi Betta — ಚಾಮುಂಡಿ ಬೆಟ್ಟ. The city of Mysuru takes its very name from Mahishasura, the buffalo demon vanquished by the Goddess atop this hill — eternal testimony to the triumph of light over darkness.

The temple's inner sanctum enshrines the Goddess in golden Kavacha armour, with the sacred Mahisha idol at her feet. She is depicted with 18 arms holding divine weapons, seated upon a lion — the universal symbol of courage and righteousness.

Chamundi Hill rises 1,062 metres above sea level, 13 kilometres from Mysuru city. The hill is home to the temple, the iconic Mahishasura statue, the ancient Nandi Bull, and extensive tropical dry forests.

The hill is accessible by a well-maintained road, or by the traditional 1,000-step foot path (1,008 steps) carved into the hillside — a path that has been trodden by royalty, saints, and millions of devotees for over eight centuries.