Chamundi Temple

Chamundeswari or the Goddess of Mysore is the royal Wodeyar family's presiding deity. The "Chamundeswari" temple is on the hill which is popularly known to the world as "Chamundaswari hills". Chamundeshwari is also popularly known as "Mahishasura Mardini" as he rescued the humans from the clutches for a demon named "Mahishasura" ( a demon with a head of a buffalo). Chamundeshwari is an incarnation of Goddess Parvathi. The name Mysore originated from "Mahisuru" (the demon Mahishasura's city).

History of the temple

The original shrine is thought to have been built in the 12^th century by Hoysala rulers. This temple is built in Dravidian style of architecture with a tall majestic gopuram. The temple assumed significance after the Wodeyars of Mysore came to power in 14^th century. This hill stands as the crown jewel of Mysore. The intricate carvings of the temple is magnificant.The temple has a very beautiful Idol of the Goddess wearing a garland of skulls. The idol of the Chamunda Devi is made of gold

There is 16 feet tall Nandi carved in black granite built by Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar, towards the mid 16^th century with exquisite bells around its neck in front of the Shiva temple.Apart from this Chamundi temple there is a temple called Mahabaleshwara, Lord Shiva in the form of Linga is a diety. Earlier this temple was called as Mahabaladri, after Mahabaleswara

Dasara Festival

The Goddess of Mysore is worshipped for nine continuous days during the Navaratri festival. Special poojas are conducted on these days. Hundreds of pilgrims take the Divine Darshan of the Goddess during the nine days. The nine days are divided into three sub-periods of three days each. During the first three days the Goddess is worshiped as Mahakali, for obtaining immunity from diseases and poverty. During the next three days the Goddess is worshiped as Mahalakshmi, for securing wealth, happiness and prosperity. During the last three days the Goddess is worshiped as Mahasarasvati to obtain purity of thought and intellectual eminence. Books, and writing materials are worshipped on that day. On the ninth day, Chandi Homa is performed. Special offering is made to the Goddess in her manifestation as Chandi. On the 10^th day, a procession is taken out and the Banni, tree (sacred tree) is worshipped.

Dasara is a festival observed by all classes of people. It is also famous to the world for its "Jambu Savari".In Mysore a large procession is taken upto Banni mantap with an elephant carrying the Mysore Goddess Chamundi seated in the golden throne.

The other places of interest around are the Mysore Palace, Mysore Zoo, KRS Dam, Brindavan Gardens, Jaganmohan Palace and St. Philomena's Church. The near by towns of Srirangapatna and Nanjanagud are also interesting tourist spots.