Chamundeshwari Shakti Peetha

Hair of Sati — fierce Chamunda who slew Mahishasura, patron of the Mysore maharajas.

दर्शन महत्व: Hilltop views over Mysuru palace; Dasara procession culminates in her honour.

यात्रा का सर्वश्रेष्ठ समय: Oct–Feb

History

Chamundeshwari on Chamundi Hill above Mysuru is the patron Goddess of the Wodeyar kings and the city’s Dasara. The hill temple has been enlarged over centuries; a giant Nandi sits on the steps. She is counted among the eighteen Maha Shakti Peethas in widely used lists.

Legends

• Chamunda is the fierce form who slew Chanda and Munda, and who is identified with the slayer of Mahishasura — hence Mysuru’s name (Mahishuru).
• The hair of Sati is associated with this peetha; Dasara’s royal procession still ends in her honour.