Nandi Statue Chamundi Hill
A colossal granite Nandi statue atop Chamundi Hill, offering breathtaking Mysore views and spiritual serenity. A must-see landmark.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Nandi Statue Chamundi Hill
Best Time
Fewer crowds, cooler temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A colossal granite Nandi statue atop Chamundi Hill, offering breathtaking Mysore views and spiritual serenity. A must-see landmark.
"The majestic statue atop the hill is a sight to behold, inspiring awe in all who visit."
🚗 Accessing the Nandi Statue
Buses stop at the temple; for the Nandi statue, take an auto/2-wheeler or descend 300 steps.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you take the 1,008 steps up the hill.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Majestic Nandi Statue
Chamundi Hill
A colossal granite sculpture of Nandi, Lord Shiva's vahana, standing tall and imposing. A true marvel of craftsmanship.
Panoramic Views of Mysore
Chamundi Hill summit
Breathtaking vistas of Mysore city spread out below, especially stunning during sunrise and sunset. A perfect photo opportunity.
Chamundeshwari Temple
Chamundi Hill summit
The ancient and revered temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, a significant spiritual site for pilgrims.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Chamundi Hill
Getting to the Nandi Statue
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Accessing the Nandi Statue
Buses stop at the temple; for the Nandi statue, take an auto/2-wheeler or descend 300 steps.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you take the 1,008 steps up the hill.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Capture the Nandi statue from different angles and the panoramic city views at sunrise/sunset.
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting the Chamundeshwari Temple and surrounding religious sites.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Accessing the Nandi Statue
Buses stop at the temple; for the Nandi statue, take an auto/2-wheeler or descend 300 steps.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if you take the 1,008 steps up the hill.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Capture the Nandi statue from different angles and the panoramic city views at sunrise/sunset.
🙏 Respectful Attire
Dress modestly when visiting the Chamundeshwari Temple and surrounding religious sites.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Carry water, especially if climbing the steps, as it can get warm.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are consistently awestruck by the majestic Nandi statue, praising its impressive size and intricate details that speak to a rich history. The panoramic views of Mysore from the hilltop are a major draw, offering a serene escape. While the journey, especially the steps, requires effort, most find the experience well worth it for the spiritual ambiance and visual splendor.
"The majestic statue atop the hill is a sight to behold, inspiring awe in all who visit. Its intricate details speak to a rich history and cultural significance. The sheer size of the sculpture is impressive, dominating the landscape. One can only imagine the dedication and skill required to create such a masterpiece. It serves as a powerful symbol, silently watching over the city below."
Niranjana D
"It is worth visiting this temple. You need to walk more than 1 km through the steps. You can also get a view point in the middle of the road. Must visit 😀"
Manoj R.S
"Big statue iam visited here but iam reached too late so visions are not cleared, iam interested to visit again"
SYAM Punalur
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Chamundi Hill is about 13 km from Mysore city. Buses are available to the Chamundeshwari Temple at the summit. To reach the Nandi statue specifically, you can either descend approximately 300 steps from the temple or hire an auto-rickshaw or two-wheeler, as buses do not go directly to the statue.
Yes, there is parking available at Chamundi Hill, particularly near the Chamundeshwari Temple. However, it can get crowded, especially on weekends and during festivals.
You can walk up the ancient stone stairway of 1,008 steps to reach the summit of Chamundi Hill. This is a popular option for pilgrims and fitness enthusiasts.
You can take a local bus, hire a taxi, or use ride-sharing apps from Mysore city to reach Chamundi Hill. Auto-rickshaws are also a common and convenient option.
Yes, many local tour operators in Mysore offer day tour packages that typically include Chamundi Hill, the Nandi statue, and other city attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is generally no entry fee to visit Chamundi Hill or the Nandi statue itself. However, there might be charges for special darshan at the Chamundeshwari Temple or for parking.
The Chamundeshwari Temple is typically open from early morning until late evening. The Nandi statue is accessible during daylight hours. It's advisable to check specific timings, especially during festivals.
No, advance booking is not required for general entry to Chamundi Hill or the Nandi statue. Tickets are only needed for specific temple rituals or special entry passes if available.
Photography is generally allowed around the Nandi statue and the viewpoints. However, photography might be restricted inside the main temple complex.
To avoid large crowds, it's best to visit Chamundi Hill on weekdays, preferably in the early morning or late afternoon. Weekends and festival days can be very crowded.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The Nandi statue is a colossal granite sculpture of Nandi, the sacred bull and vahana (vehicle) of Lord Shiva. It's a significant religious icon and a prominent landmark on Chamundi Hill.
The Nandi statue is approximately 4.9 meters tall and 7.6 meters long, carved from a single piece of granite.
Besides the Nandi statue, the main attraction is the Chamundeshwari Temple. You can also enjoy panoramic views of Mysore city and visit the statue of Mahishasura.
The 1,008 steps can be strenuous, especially in the heat. However, there are viewpoints and resting spots along the way. Alternatively, you can drive or take an auto to the top.
The summit offers excellent panoramic views of Mysore. There are also viewpoints along the road leading up to the hill that provide good perspectives of the city.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several small eateries and tea stalls on Chamundi Hill offering local snacks and beverages. For a more substantial meal, it's advisable to dine in Mysore city.
Most of the food stalls on Chamundi Hill offer vegetarian options. Mysore city itself has a wide range of restaurants catering to all dietary preferences.
In Mysore, you should try Mysore Pak, Masala Dosa, Idli-Vada, and filter coffee. Many restaurants near Chamundi Hill will offer these.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning during sunrise and late afternoon during sunset offer the best lighting conditions for photography, creating a golden hue on the granite statue and the surrounding landscape.
The base of the statue provides a grand perspective. For wider shots, move a bit further back. The viewpoints offering cityscapes also make for excellent photographic opportunities.
A wide-angle lens is useful for capturing the scale of the Nandi statue and the panoramic views. A telephoto lens can be good for details within the temple complex if permitted.
Drone usage is typically restricted in and around religious sites and public areas. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack plenty of water and snacks, as food options on the hill are limited to small stalls. Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to ensure comfort. The journey itself, whether by car or bus, can be an adventure for children, offering new sights and experiences.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers
Consider visiting during weekdays to experience a more tranquil environment. Engaging with locals or other visitors can enrich your experience. The accessibility and relatively low cost make it an ideal stop for budget-conscious travelers exploring Mysore.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History and Significance of the Nandi Statue
The statue is not merely a sculpture but a deeply revered religious icon. Nandi is considered the primary disciple of Lord Shiva and the gatekeeper of his abode. Devotees often circumambulate the statue, offering prayers and seeking blessings. The statue's presence on Chamundi Hill, a significant pilgrimage site, further amplifies its spiritual importance. It's a place where history, art, and devotion converge, offering visitors a profound connection to ancient traditions.
While the exact date of its creation is not widely documented, its presence signifies the long-standing tradition of Shaivism in the region. The statue has also been the site of special rituals, such as the 'Mahabhishekha' performed during Karthika Masa, highlighting its ongoing cultural relevance and the community's dedication to preserving these traditions.
Navigating Chamundi Hill: Access and Exploration
Alternatively, for visitors preferring convenience or with mobility concerns, vehicular access is readily available. Buses regularly ply the route from Mysore city to the temple at the top. To reach the Nandi statue, which is situated approximately halfway down from the temple, visitors can either descend a separate set of about 300 steps or opt for an auto-rickshaw or two-wheeler. Private vehicles can also be driven up to designated parking areas near the temple.
Exploring Chamundi Hill involves more than just visiting the Nandi statue and temple. The panoramic viewpoints offer breathtaking vistas of Mysore city, especially captivating during sunrise and sunset. The area around the statue and temple is also home to other significant structures, including the statue of Mahishasura, adding to the historical and cultural tapestry of the hill.
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