Ayodhyapattanam Sri Kothandarama Temple, Salem

Address

Ayodhyapattanam Sri Kothandarama Temple, Salem Ayodhyapattanam, Salem District- 636 103 Phone: 98948 70206/ 80981 21383

Diety

Sri Kothandarama Amman: Sita

Introduction

The Kothandarama Temple in Ayodhyapattanam, Salem District, Tamil Nadu, is a significant religious site known for its unique portrayal of Lord Rama.

• It is located approximately 10 kilometers east of Salem on the Tiruppattur / Athur – Vriddhachalam highway.
• The temple dates back to the 17th century AD and was built during the rule of Tirumala Nayak.

Puranic Significance

Religious Significance:

• The temple is associated with a unique depiction of Lord Rama. It is believed that after the battle with the Lankan king Ravana, Lord Rama, along with Sita, stayed at this place for a day.
• On the request of Vibheeshana, Lord Rama is said to have appeared in a Pattabhisheka Kolam (coronation posture), with Sita to His left. Vibheeshana is depicted standing opposite Lord Rama and Sita, offering his prayers and seeking their blessings.

Temple Architecture and Artwork:

• The temple features a five-tier, 150-foot-high Raja Gopuram (tower) at its eastern entrance.
• The temple’s Maha Mandapa (main hall) has well-crafted pillars and artistic sculptures that date back to the Nayak period.
• Notable features within the temple include musical pillars, cornices, horse pillars, and carvings of Dasavathara (the ten avatars of Lord Vishnu).
• Carvings in the Maha Mandapa are believed to represent Tirumala Nayaka, his wife, and two sons.
• The upper wall of the Maha Mandapa showcases Mooligai Paintings, which depict various medicinal herbs and plants.
• Inside the sanctum sanctorum, Lord Rama is depicted in a unique seated posture with His left leg resting on His right thigh. Alongside Rama and Sita, you can also find idols of Lakshmana, Bharata, Shatrughna, and Anjaneya.

Special Features

Temple Car: The 20feet high wooden chariot is currently in a dilapidated condition

Festivals

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

Century/Period/Age

17th Century AD.

Managed By

Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments (HRCE)

Nearest Bus Station

Ayodhyapattanam

Nearest Railway Station

Ayodhyapattanam

Nearest Airport

Trichy

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