The Chamundi Hills are located 13 km east of Mysore, the Palace City, in Karnataka, India. The name comes from the Chamundeshwari Temple at the peak.
Named after the goddess Chamundi, the Chamundeshwari Temple sits atop the main hill. The main hill itself features an ancient stone stairway of 1,008 steps leading to its summit. Approximately halfway to the summit is statue of bull Nandi, the vahana, or "vehicle" of Lord Shiva, which is 4.9 m tall and 7.6 m long and carved out of a single piece of black granite. Around this point, the steps become significantly less steep and eventually the climber is rewarded with a panoramic view of the city.
Many smear vermilion and turmeric powder on each step as a tribute to the gods.
The climb offers great views of Mysore city. On a clear sunny day, one will be able to see race grounds, Lalitha Mahal palace, the Mysore Palace and even Karanji Kere and Kukkarahalli lake.
The up-and-down segment starts at the first step (where the road ends). Upto the temple entrance (after 1008 steps). Then, back down along the same route.
