About Kodandarama Temple
Kodandarama Temple is a historic Hindu temple located in Hiremagalur, an eastern suburb of Chikkamagaluru city in Karnataka. Dedicated to Lord Rama as Kodandarama, it is notable for its east-facing sanctum and Hoysala and Vijayanagara architectural features. The temple enshrines idols of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana believed to be carved from a single stone, and is an important pilgrimage and heritage attraction in the Chikkamagaluru district.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a traditional South Indian temple complex with a gopuram, pillared mandapa, and sanctum housing idols of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana. The temple is set in the residential area of Hiremagalur near Chikkamagaluru town, with stone carvings, ornate pillars and a temple tank nearby. The atmosphere is devotional and quiet, with space for darshan, circumambulation and photography of exterior architecture.
Key highlights
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East-facing deity of Lord Rama holding bow (Kodanda) with Sita on the right, unusual iconography
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Idols of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana said to be carved from a single stone
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Hoysala and Vijayanagara style architecture with carved pillars and vimana
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Historic temple tank (Kalyani) in the temple premises
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Located in Hiremagalur, considered the older part of Chikkamagaluru with heritage character
History of Kodandarama Temple
The temple is traditionally associated with the legend of Parashurama and is believed to have origins in the Hoysala period with later contributions during the Vijayanagara period. It exhibits Hoysala and Vijayanagara architectural elements and is regarded as one of the older temples in the Chikkamagaluru region, reflecting the historical development of Hiremagalur as the original settlement before Chikkamagaluru town expanded.
Culture & Context
The temple is an important Vaishnavite place of worship dedicated to Lord Rama as Kodandarama. It is revered by devotees for its unique east-facing Rama and Sita iconography and is a center for religious observances including Rama Navami and other Vaishnava festivals. It holds cultural importance for the local community as a heritage temple of Hiremagalur.
Route
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