In India, the fervor and enthusiasm surrounding Ram Navami are truly remarkable. Ram Navami, celebrated as the birth anniversary of Lord Shri Ram, holds immense significance in Hindu culture. In the year 2024, Ram Navami falls on April 17th. During this auspicious occasion, people make various plans, and visiting temples dedicated to Lord Shri Ram is a common practice.
If you are planning to visit a Ram temple this Ram Navami, then let us introduce you to a unique and exceptional temple located in Karnataka, India, known as the Kodanda Ramaswamy Mandir.
Kodanda Ramaswamy Mandir: A Symbol of Devotion
Situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River in Karnataka, the Kodanda Ramaswamy Mandir is a renowned Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Ram, Mata Sita, and Lakshman. This temple, constructed during the Vijayanagara Empire in the 14th century, stands as an exemplary masterpiece of Hoysala architecture.
What distinguishes this temple is the unique depiction of the deities. Unlike other temples where Lord Ram is accompanied by Mata Sita and Lakshman, here they stand separately. The temple features three sanctums, with one housing the idol of Lord Ram, the second housing Mata Sita, and the third housing Lakshman.
The Fulfillment of Lord Parashuram’s Wish by Lord Ram
Legend has it that this temple is the first of its kind where Mata Sita stands to the right of Lord Ram. Lord Parashuram, an ancient sage mentioned in the Ramayana, is believed to have imparted weaponry skills to Lord Ram. In fulfillment of Lord Parashuram’s wish, Lord Ram positioned Mata Sita on his right side and Lakshman on his left.
How to Reach the Temple
The Kodanda Ramaswamy Mandir is located approximately 5 kilometers from Chikmagalur in Karnataka. For those traveling from Kemmanagundi, the distance is around 66 kilometers.
The temple is well-connected to National Highway 275 and can be easily accessed by road from major cities like Bangalore, Mysore, and Mangalore. The nearest railway station is Bhadravati Railway Station, located about 8.2 kilometers from the temple. Additionally, Hubli Airport, approximately 100 kilometers away, serves as the nearest airport.
Visitors to the temple can avail of accommodation facilities in nearby dharamshalas and guesthouses. The temple remains open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with Aarti ceremonies held at 7:00 AM and 6:00 PM.
As you plan your pilgrimage for this Ram Navami, consider including a visit to the Kodanda Ramaswamy Mandir to experience the divine aura and architectural splendor of this sacred place dedicated to Lord Shri Ram.