Camundi Hills are one of the major attractions of Mysore. Elevated to an altitude of 1,000 feet above sea level, the hill derived its name from the Goddess Chamundeswari or Chamundi. The legend goes that a fierce battle was fought between the goddess and the demon Mahishasura, the king of the place that is currently Mysore. And the demon was killed by the Goddess in the end. Hence the hill was named as Chamundi Hills. It is said that the Goddess still protects the place.

Chamundi Hills are very beautiful leaving visitors spell bound. The peak of the hills offers overwhelming views of its mesmerizing surroundings. The hill houses a temple dedicated to Goddess Chamundeshwari, an incarnation of Goddess Durga. It was built in the 12th century by the rulers of Hoysala dynasty and later some of its other structures were built by the Vijayanagar rulers. The seven story tall Gopuram of the temple is known for its exquisite carvings. The idol of the goddess is believed to be made of gold. The silver doors of the temple also attract attention.

During the bygone era, the members of the royal family of Mysore used to visit the temple everyday for taking blessings of the Goddess. En route to the temple, there is a huge statue of Nandi bull, the vehicle of Lord Shiva. Decorated with wonderful ornaments, the statue looks beautiful. The hill also has a statue of the demon. Another temple on the hills is Mahabaleswara Temple, which is the oldest temple on the hills.