Kothandarama Temple, Ayodhyapattanam, Salem

Kothandarama Temple, Ayodhyapattanam, Salem

Kothandarama Temple is located in Ayodhyapattanam in Salem District in Tamilnadu. Here Rama is seen in a Pattabhisheka Kolam. It is located about 10kms East of Salem on the Tiruppattur / Athur – Vriddhachalam highway. It was built during Tirumala Nayak period in 17th Century AD.

Legends

The story goes that at the conclusion of the battle with Lankan king Ravana, Rama came here and stayed along with Sita for a day. On the request of Vibheeshana, he is believed to have provided darshan in a Pattabhisheka Posture as a result of which Sita is seen to the left of Rama at this temple. Vibheeshana is seen standing opposite Rama and Sita offering his prayers to them and in a posture of invoking their blessings.

The Temple

It is located on a 1 ½ acre area; the temple was built during the rule of Tirumala Nayak in the 17th Century AD. On the Eastern entrance is a 5 tier 150 feet high Raja Gopuram. As one enters the prakara of this temple, there is a spacious Maha Mandapa where one finds pillars of good workmanship. One finds several artistic sculptures inside the temple that dates back to the Nayak Period.

On the North Eastern corner of the mandapa are three musical pillars. Cornices and Horse Pillars are reminiscent of the Madura Style of Tirumala Nayak period. On a single pillar on the Eastern corner are Dasavathara carvings.

Four figures carved in the Maha Mandapa are believed to represent Tirumala Nayaka, his wife and two sons. On the upper wall of the Maha Mandapa are several Mooligai Paintings. A unique feature at this temple is that Rama is seen in a sitting posture with his left leg placed on his right thigh. Alongside Rama and Sita inside the sanctum are Lakshmana, Bharata, Shatrughna and Anjaneya. Utsavar idol is Kothandarama.

Sannidhis

Sculptures

Paintings

Inscriptions

Temple Car

In centuries gone by, the temple had Vahanas of Anjaneya, Horse and Elephant as well as a palanquin. The 20feet high wooden chariot is currently in a dilapidated condition.

Temple Opening Time

The Temple is open from 7am – 12 noon and 5pm – 8.30 pm.

Festivals

10day Rama Navami and Hanuman Jayanthi are celebrated in a grand way at this temple.

Contact

Kothandarama Temple,

Ayodhyapattanam, Salem District

Phone: 98948 70206/ 80981 21383

Connectivity

This place is well connected to Salem by Road. Direct buses every 15 minutes to the temple from the Salem Old bus stand. One can also take Thirupattur & Athur/Vriddhachalam bound buses to reach Ayodhyapattanam (will take 45minutes from Salem New Bus Stand).

Nearest Railway Station is Ayodhyapattanam Railway Station. Train No. 1603 Chennai Egmore – Salem Express stops at Ayodhyapattanam Railway Station (530am). From Salem Junction, auto will cost Rs. 200-250(one way). Nearest Airport is located at Trichy & Coimbatore.