Chandika Homam at Chamundeshwari Temple, Mysore

Key Information at a Glance

About the Chamundeshwari Temple

The Sri Chamundeshwari Temple sits atop Chamundi Hills, about 13 kilometres from Mysuru city at an elevation of roughly 1,065 metres. The presiding deity is Goddess Chamundeshwari, the tutelary goddess of the erstwhile Mysore royal family and one of the most revered forms of the Divine Mother in Karnataka. The hill takes its name from the goddess, who is worshipped here as the slayer of the demon Mahishasura — the figure from whom Mysuru is traditionally said to derive its name.

The temple is a recognised Shakti shrine and draws pilgrims throughout the year, with especially large crowds during Navaratri and the Mysuru Dasara festival. Day-to-day administration is handled by the Sri Chamundeshwari Development Authority, which operates under the Karnataka state Muzrai (Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments) framework. This means seva pricing, timings and procedures are set by the temple authority and can change, so official sources are always the place to verify them.

What Is Chandika Homam and Why It Matters

Chandika Homam (also written Chandika Homa or Chandi Homa) is a Vedic fire ritual offered to the Goddess in her fierce, protective form as Chandika or Durga. Priests recite verses from the Devi Mahatmyam (also called the Durga Saptashati or Chandi Path) while making offerings into the sacred fire (homa kunda). The ritual is traditionally performed to seek the Goddess’s blessings for protection, courage, removal of obstacles, and family well-being.

At the Chamundeshwari Temple, Chandika Homa is offered as a group seva. According to the temple’s own booking system, the administration informs the assigned homa date to the group once a sponsorship is registered, since the ritual is conducted on scheduled days rather than on demand. Devotees may sponsor the homa to participate in the offerings and receive prasadam. As with any major seva, the religious benefit lies in sincere participation rather than in any guaranteed outcome.

How to Book or Sponsor Chandika Homam

There are two reliable, official ways to arrange a Chandika Homa at the temple. The first is in person at the temple’s seva counter on Chamundi Hills, where staff can explain the current schedule and sponsorship options. The second is online through the temple’s official portal, where Chandika Homa is listed among the bookable sevas. After you register, the temple administration confirms the homa date for your group.

Please note: costs, slots and procedures are set by the Sri Chamundeshwari Development Authority and change from time to time. We do not list a fixed price because doing so could mislead you. Confirm the current Chandika Homa fee, available dates and payment method directly with the temple counter or the official portal before you travel.

Darshan Timings

The temple is generally open for darshan and pooja from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., and again from 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Abhisheka (the ritual bathing of the deity) is typically conducted in the early morning and evening, with a slightly earlier start on Fridays. Free meals (Dasoha) are offered to devotees daily. Timings can change during festivals such as Navaratri and on special occasions, so check the official website or contact the temple office before planning your visit.

Location and How to Reach Chamundi Hills

The temple is located on Chamundi Hill, around 13 kilometres from the centre of Mysuru. KSRTC city buses run regularly from the Mysuru city bus stand to the top of the hill, and taxis and auto-rickshaws are widely available. Those who prefer to walk can climb the historic flight of around a thousand steps, passing the large Nandi statue partway up. By road, the hill is an easy drive from Mysuru, which is well connected by train and bus to Bengaluru and other cities; the nearest major airport is in Bengaluru.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I book Chandika Homam online at the Chamundeshwari Temple?

Yes. Chandika Homa is listed as a bookable group seva on the temple’s official portal at chamundeshwaritemple.in. You can also enquire and register at the seva counter on Chamundi Hills. After registration, the temple administration confirms the homa date for your group.

How much does Chandika Homam cost?

The sponsorship amount is set by the Sri Chamundeshwari Development Authority and can change. Because it varies and is revised over time, we do not publish a fixed figure. Please confirm the current cost directly at the temple counter or on the official portal before booking.

What are the temple darshan timings?

Darshan is generally available from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., and 7:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Timings may differ during festivals such as Navaratri, so check the official website or contact the temple office before your visit.

How do I reach the Chamundeshwari Temple on Chamundi Hills?

The temple is about 13 kilometres from Mysuru city. KSRTC buses run frequently from the city bus stand to the hilltop, and taxis and autos are available. You can also climb the steps past the Nandi statue. Mysuru is well connected by road and rail, with the nearest major airport at Bengaluru.