A Pilgrimage to Sri Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple, Vontimitta

On 11th January, our family embarked on a journey to the Vontimitta Sri Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple, a gem of history and devotion nestled in the serene landscapes of Andhra Pradesh on our way back home from Tirumala. Having been blessed with the divine Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam of Lord Venkateshwara Swamy at Tirumala on 9th January, we were eager to continue our spiritual journey, and the visit to this ancient temple was the perfect culmination. We started early in the morning from Tirumala and as planned we reached Vontimitta in time for breakfast at the Vontimitta Haritha Hotel and the Temple visit.

The Vontimitta Sri Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple, located in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, is steeped in history and spirituality. It is located 25 km. from Kadapa and is close to Rajampet. This grand temple, dedicated to Lord Rama, is believed to have been constructed during the 16th century by the Chola and Vijayanagara dynasties. However, a smaller temple's origins date back to the 11th century, and you can see us with a Stone Inscription (Sila Sasanamu) indicating the year 1365. The temple and its adjoining buildings are one of the centrally protected monuments of national importance. The temple has since been a beacon of devotion and artistry, drawing devotees and history enthusiasts alike.

Legend has it that two devout devotees of Lord Rama, Vontudu and Mittudu, built this temple. Their combined efforts gave rise to the name “Vontimitta”. It is also said that this temple is where Lord Rama, with Sita Devi and Lakshmana, stayed during their exile, making it a significant location in the Ramayana lore.

As we approached the temple, we were captivated by its magnificent architecture. The temple is constructed entirely of granite, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of the Vijayanagara era. The intricate carvings on the gopuram (temple tower) and mandapas (pillared halls) narrate stories from the Ramayana, making the structure a visual delight and a spiritual retreat.

Unfortunately, as the main temple is under repair we could not enter the sanctum sanctorum and have the darshan of the main deities of Lord Rama, Sita Devi, and Lakshmana. We are informed that these life-sized deities are carved out of a single stone, their intricate detailing reflecting the devotion of the sculptors who created them and that they exude a divine aura. The temple would be ready in March, in time for Sri Rama Navami celebrations.

However, we had a very satisfactory Darshan of the beautiful and grand Utsava Vigrahas (Ceremonial Idols) of Lord Rama, Sita Devi and Lakshmana, and the Theertham and Shatari blessings in an adjacent make-shift temple where all the rituals are being carried out, including Vaikunta Dwara Darshanam the day before yesterday.

The Vontimitta temple is renowned as the “Ayodhya of the South” due to its association with Lord Rama. It holds immense significance, especially during the Sri Rama Navami festival when grand celebrations and rituals attract thousands of devotees. The temple’s rich heritage and spiritual energy make it a must-visit destination for those seeking divine blessings and a glimpse into the past.

Walking through the temple premises, we felt a profound sense of peace and connection to the divine. The temple’s sprawling courtyard, adorned with ancient sculptures and detailed inscriptions, transported us back in time. The calm and tranquil atmosphere was a stark contrast to the bustling darshan at some temples, offering us a moment of quiet reflection and prayer.

A temple employee’s explanation of the temple’s history and significance added depth to our visit. We offered our prayers and spent time admiring the detailed carvings that depicted scenes from the Ramayana. The intricate artistry left us in awe, a testament to the dedication of the craftsmen who brought these stories to life in stone.

Our visit to the Vontimitta Sri Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple was a deeply enriching experience, a journey into the confluence of history, art, and spirituality. As we left the temple, our hearts were filled with gratitude for the divine blessings and the timeless beauty we had witnessed. For anyone travelling to Tirupati or places nearby, a visit to this historic temple is an absolute must.