Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple, Vontimitta: Timing, Darshan and more

Vontimitta Temple, officially known as Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple, is a significant historical and religious site in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, India. This temple is dedicated to Lord Rama and is renowned for its architectural beauty and historical significance.

History of Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple

The Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple, nestled in the serene atmosphere of Tirupati, is a testament to devotion and architectural splendor. According to legend, the temple, adorned with 32 pillars, was constructed in a single day by the devout followers Vontudu and Mittudu. In an ultimate act of devotion, they transformed themselves into statues after completing the temple. The idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana, uniquely carved from a single rock, were placed in the temple by Lord Jambavantha.

This revered temple originates in the 10th century, constructed during the reign of the Chola Kings and later enhanced by the Vijayanagara rulers in the 16th century. The temple’s architecture, which caught the eye of French traveler Jean-Baptiste Tavernier in 1652, reflects the elegance of the Vijayanagara era with symbols and inscriptions of the dynasty etched into the rock walls.

The temple’s spiritual aura attracted the saint-poet Bammera Potana, who composed the Maha Bhagavatham in Telugu and dedicated it to Lord Rama. Vavilakolanu Subba Rao, hailed as ‘Andhra Valmiki,’ translated Valmiki’s Ramayana into Telugu here, and Annamacharya, another saint-poet, visited the temple, offering his songs in praise of Lord Rama.

Construction efforts in the 18th century by Sri Dodla Rami Reddy brought further grandeur to the temple, culminating in its completion in 1784. Since then, the temple has celebrated Bramhotsavams annually, beginning on Sri Rama Navami.

Today, the Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple stands as a must-visit for pilgrims to Tirumala, offering a blend of divine presence, historical richness, and architectural majesty that spans over a millennium, making it a cornerstone of spiritual heritage in Tirupati.

Vontimitta Kodandarama Swamy Temple Darshan Timing

If you’re planning to visit the Vontimitta Kodandarama Swamy Temple, here’s when you can drop by:

• Morning Darshan: The temple opens up bright and early at 6:00 AM and welcomes visitors till 1:00 PM.
• Evening Darshan: After a brief break, the doors reopen at 2:00 PM and stay open until 8:00 PM.

And guess what? This schedule stays the same every day of the week – yes, from Monday to Sunday! So, no matter what day you’re considering visiting, you can catch the darshan in these hours.

Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple Kalyanam and Pooja Ticket Details:

Good news for the little ones! If your child is under 12, they don’t need a ticket for Darshanam or any sevas.

Here’s a quick look at the ticket costs for special poojas and events at the temple:

• For a close peek (Antharalaya Darshanam): Rs 50
• Offering food to the deity (Naivedya Pooja): Rs 500
• Holy Bath for the deity (Abhishekam): Rs 150
• Celestial Wedding (Kalyanostavam): Rs 1000
• Flower Offering (Pushpa Kanikaryam): Rs 1500
• Village Festival (Gramotsavam): Rs 2500
• Temple Flag Festival (Gudi Utsavam): Rs 2000
• Grand Celebration (Brahmotsavam): Rs 15000
• Eternal Abhishekam (Saswatha Abishekam): Rs 1116

Whether you’re planning to witness the grandeur of the Brahmotsavam or participate in the intimate Abhishekam, these tickets will ensure you’re part of the divine experience!

How to Reach:

The temple is easily accessible by road and approximately 25 kilometers from Kadapa city. The nearest railway station is in Kadapa, and the closest airport is in Tirupati, making it convenient for visitors traveling from different parts of India.

Best Time to Visit:

The best time to visit the Vontimitta Temple is during the spring season, around March to April, to coincide with the Rama Navami festival. This period offers a unique opportunity to witness the temple’s full festive glory and participate in special ceremonies and cultural programs.

End Words:

Vontimitta Temple serves as a place of worship and a beacon of cultural heritage, preserving the architectural and spiritual legacy of the Vijayanagara era. Its serene ambiance, coupled with the rich tapestry of history and devotion, makes it a must-visit destination for those exploring the spiritual landscape of India.