Kodandarama Temple Chunchanakatte

Nestled on the scenic banks of the Kaveri River and adjacent to the picturesque Chunchanakatte Falls (also known as Dhanushkoti Waterfall), this temple is a significant pilgrimage centre and a notable example of Dravidian architecture.

The temple is also locally referred to as Chunchanakatte Ramanathanagara. The sanctum houses the main deity, Lord Rama, accompanied by Goddess Sita, Sri Lakshmana, and Anjaneya Swamy (Hanuman).

The temple’s spiritual ambience is enhanced by its tranquil riverbank setting, making it a sought-after destination for devotees and tourists alike.

Kodandarama Temple Chunchanakatte is recognized as a state heritage site and traces its roots to the Vijayanagara period, with enhancements attributed to the Vijayanagara dynasty.

Devotees can participate in various poojas and sevas, including the Nitya Araadhana Seva (Saaligraama Pooja) from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM, Panchamruta Abhishekam & Shkeera Abhishekam from 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM, and the special Sri Sita Rama Kalyaanotsava Seva held monthly on Punarvasu Nakshatram between 9:30 AM and 12:00 PM.

Other rituals include Tirumanjanam/Abhishekam Seva on special occasions, Srimad Valmiki Ramayana Pathana Seva during Sharan Navaratri, and Pattaabhishekam on Vijayadashami. All poojas are conducted in Kannada.

Temple timings are from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM in the morning and 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the evening. Free darshan is available for all visitors. Traditional attire is recommended for both men and women.

Prasadam is distributed after main poojas and at the end of Kalyanotsava, with special feasts arranged during major festivals.

The temple celebrates several vibrant festivals, including Brahma Rathotsava (Car Festival) in January, Sri Rama Navami in March-April, Vaikunta Ekadashi in December-January, Navaratri & Vijayadashami in September-October, a Cattle Fair in August, and Chiluka Dwadashi.

Reaching Kodandarama Temple Chunchanakatte is convenient from Mysuru: head west toward K.R. Nagar, proceed to Yelawala, and continue to K.R. Nagar, then travel about 14 km to Chunchanakatte. Alternatively, from Saligrama, the temple is about 7 km away.

Public transport such as KSRTC buses and private cabs are available from K.R. Nagar. The nearest railway stations are Krishnaraja Nagar (14 km) and Mysuru Junction (55 km), while Mysore Airport is 65 km away and Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore, is 190 km distant.

Basic hotels and eateries are available in K.R. Nagar and Saligrama, while Mysuru offers a wider range of accommodation options.

Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like Chunchanakatte Falls, Balluru Katte Dam Waterfalls, Kappadi Kshetram, Arkeswara Swamy Temple, Chikkadevaraya Sagara Dam, and Sagarakatte Backwaters.

Ample parking is available, and while the terrain is mostly natural, the main temple area is generally accessible. Photography is permitted in the surrounding areas and at the waterfall, but not inside the inner sanctum. The best time to visit is during the monsoon and winter months, especially in the morning hours.