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Chamundi Hills is situated on the outskirts of the Mysore city. It is thronged by religious tourists, largely because of its famous Chamundeshwari Temple. The city of Mysore is said to have got its name from the demon king Mahishasura. Goddess Parvati took the form of Goddess Chamundeshwari to destroy this demon king Mahishasura. The Goddess Chamundeshwari killed the demon king after a fierce battle and hence the Goddess is also known as Mahishasuramardini, which means she who killed Mahishasura. The temple of Goddess Chamundeshwari is located on the hilltop.
There are 1000 steps leading to the temple, located on the Chamundi Hills. It is said that Dodda Devaraja Wodeyar, ruler of Mysore, built these steps. King Krishnaraja Wodeyar III built the magnificent gopuram, means pyramidal temple tower of the temple. The gigantic statue of Mahishasura stands close to the temple, which is painted in bright colors. Half way up the hills there is a statue of Nandi around 4.8 meters tall. Nandi means bull and the vehicle of Lord Shiva.
Situated on the heights of Chamundi Hills, the temple has large silver gates and golden idols. The beautiful idol of Goddess is seen wearing a garland of skulls. The Goddess is seated on a lion and killing the buffalo headed demon with her trident. During the Dussera festival, the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari is taken on the elephant. The Goddess Chamundeshwari is a presiding deity of the city as well as the Maharajas of Mysore.
Besides the Chamundeshwari Temple, there is the famous temple of Mahabaleswara (a form of Linga). It is the oldest temple on the hill. The Lalithadri Palace of the Kings of Mysore is also situated on the top of Chamundi Hills. There is also a small township located on the hill.
Chamundi Hills gives the panoramic view of the Mysore city and many pilgrims visit the religious temple of Goddess Chamundeshwari every year
To know about Tourist Attractions in and around Mysore go to:
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