Sri Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Rama, located in Vontimitta town in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh. The temple, an example of the Vijayanagara architectural style, is dated to the 16th century and is stated to be the largest temple in the region. Â
The temple is also known for its association with the saint poets Bammera Potana and Annamacharya, who composed and sang devotional songs in praise of Lord Rama here. The temple is also the venue for the official Ramanavami celebrations of the state, which attract thousands of devotees every year.Â
If you are planning to visit this temple, here are some useful information that you need to know:
Vontimitta Temple History
According to the local legend, the temple was built by Vontudu and Mittudu, who were robbers-turned-devotees of Lord Rama. After building the temple, they are said to have turned into stone.
The temple was built during the reign of the Chola and Vijayanagara kings around the 16th century. The temple has three ornate gopurams (towers) and mandapas (halls) with a wealth of ornate carvings depicting Rama and his acolytes. The sanctum and attached pillared hall were built earlier, while the gopuram and central mandapa were added later.
The temple is also a testimony to the literary and cultural heritage of Andhra Pradesh. Bammera Potana, who lived in Vontimitta, wrote his magnum opus Maha Bhagavatham in Telugu language and dedicated it to Lord Rama.
Vavilakolanu Subba Rao, known as ‘Andhra Valmiki’ for translating Valmiki’s Ramayana into Telugu also spent his time here worshipping Lord Rama. The saint-poet Annamacharya is said to have visited the temple and composed and sang songs or kirtans in praise of Lord Rama. Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, a French traveler who had visited this temple in 1652, appreciated the elegance of the temple’s architecture.
Vontimitta Temple Accommodation
There are not many options for accommodation near the temple. However, you can stay at the APTDC’s Haritha Hotel, which is located on the highway, overlooking the lake, and is within walking distance from the temple. It has ten rooms and a restaurant. The tariff is Rs. 1,254 per night. You can contact the hotel at 09666806906.
Alternatively, you can also stay at Kadapa, which is 25 km away from the temple. Kadapa has more hotels and lodges to suit different budgets and preferences. You can also visit other attractions in Kadapa, such as St Mary’s Cathedral, Bhagawan Mahaveer District Archaeological Museum, Pedda Dargah, Proddatur, Danavulapadu, and Brahmamgari Matham.
Vontimitta Temple Online Booking
The temple does not have an official website, so you cannot book your darshan and seva tickets online.
You can also book your accommodation and transportation through the official website of the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC), which is [www.aptourism.gov.in]. You can also find information about other tourist destinations and activities in Andhra Pradesh on the website.
Vontimitta Temple Distance
The temple is located at a distance of 25 km from Kadapa, which is the nearest major city and railway station. The temple is well connected by road from Kadapa and other nearby towns. You can take a bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
The nearest airport to the temple is in Tirupati, which is 135 km away. You can take a flight to Tirupati and then take a bus, taxi, or train to Kadapa. From Kadapa, you can take another bus, taxi, or auto-rickshaw to reach the temple.
Vontimitta Temple Timings
The temple is open for darshan from 6:00 am to 1:00 pm and from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm every day. The temple performs various rituals and sevas daily, such as Suprabhata Seva, Abhishekam, Archana, Aarti, and Pavalimpu Seva. You can participate in these sevas by paying a nominal fee at the temple counter.
The temple also celebrates various festivals throughout the year, such as Sri Rama Navami, Brahmotsavam, Kalyanotsavam, Teppotsavam, and Hanuman Jayanti. These festivals are marked by special rituals, processions, cultural programs, and fireworks. The temple attracts a large number of devotees during these festivals, especially during Sri Rama Navami, which is the official state festival.
Vontimitta Temple Contact Number
If you have any queries or feedback regarding the temple, you can contact the temple authorities at the following numbers:
- Executive Officer: 08565-281540
- Temple Office: 08565-281541
- Temple Mobile: 9491000706
- Temple Email: eovontimitta@gmail.com
You can also write to the temple at the following address:
Sri Kodandarama Swamy Vari Devasthanam, Vontimitta (V&M), Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh – 516213
Conclusion
Sri Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple is a divine destination that offers a glimpse into the rich history, culture, and spirituality of Andhra Pradesh. The temple is a marvel of architecture and art, and a place of worship and devotion for millions of devotees.
The temple is also a hub of literary and musical excellence, as it inspired many saint poets and artists to create their masterpieces. The temple is also a center of celebration and joy, as it hosts various festivals and events throughout the year. If you are looking for a place to experience Andhra Pradesh’s essence, you should visit this temple.Â
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