Deep in the heart of Andhra Pradesh’s YSR Kadapa district lies a spiritual gem that transcends time—the Vontimitta Kodanda Ramalayam. Known for its breathtaking Vijayanagara architecture and unique traditions, this temple is not just a place of worship but a living testament to the epic Ramayana.
Whether you are a devotee seeking divine blessings or a traveler enamored by history, Vontimitta offers an experience that stays with you forever.
1. The Divine Legend: Why "Vontimitta"?
The name "Vontimitta" has a fascinating origin story. Legend says the temple was built by two reformed robbers named Vontudu and Mittudu. After becoming ardent devotees of Lord Rama, they constructed this magnificent structure in a single day. It is said that upon completion, they sacrificed their lives and transformed into stone statues, which can still be seen at the temple entrance.
The Kishkindakanda Connection
Many believe that the Kishkindakanda (a pivotal chapter of the Ramayana) took place in this very region. Local lore suggests that Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana stayed here during their Aranyavasam (forest exile). To quench Sita’s thirst, Rama famously shot an arrow into the earth, creating the sacred water bodies known as Rama Teertham and Lakshmana Teertham.
2. Architectural Splendor: A Vijayanagara Masterpiece
Dating back to the 16th century, the temple is a prime example of Vijayanagara architectural style.
The Monolithic Trio: Unlike most temples where idols are placed separately, the main idols of Lord Rama, Sita Devi, and Lakshmana at Vontimitta are carved out of a single massive rock (Ekashila).
The Missing Hanuman: A unique feature of this temple is that Lord Hanuman is not depicted alongside the trio in the sanctum sanctorum. This is because the idols were established by Jambavantha, who chose to represent Rama in his "Kodanda" (bow-wielding) form before Hanuman’s prominence in that specific phase of the journey. However, a separate shrine for Hanuman exists within the complex.
The Towering Gopuram: The temple features three ornate gateway towers. The eastern gopuram stands 160 feet tall, visible from miles away, inviting pilgrims into the spacious 32-pillared Madhya Ranga Mandapam.
3. Cultural Significance: The Poet’s Abode
Vontimitta is a land of literary giants.
Bammera Potana: The legendary Telugu poet wrote his magnum opus, Maha Bhagavatham, right here and dedicated it to Lord Rama.
Annamacharya: The saint-poet visited this temple and composed several keertanas (devotional songs) in praise of the deity.
Tavernier’s Praise: Even the famous French traveler Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, who visited in 1652, was so mesmerized that he described it as one of the most beautiful temples in India.
4. The Famous Midnight Wedding (Sita Rama Kalyanam)
While most Rama temples celebrate the celestial wedding (Kalyanam) at noon, Vontimitta follows a unique tradition. The Sita Rama Kalyanam is performed at midnight on the day of Chaitra Purnima (full moon day).
Why at night? Legend has it that the Moon (Chandra) felt sad that he could never witness Rama’s wedding as it always happened during the day. Lord Rama promised the Moon that in Vontimitta, his wedding would be celebrated under the cool glow of the full moon, allowing Chandra to witness the divine union.
5. Travel Tips & Essential Information
Best Time to Visit: October to March (pleasant weather) or during Sri Rama Navami (March/April) to witness the grand celebrations.
Temple Timings: 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
How to Reach: * By Road: 25 km from Kadapa city.
By Rail: Vontimitta has its own railway station on the Chennai-Mumbai line.
By Air: Kadapa Airport is the nearest (approx. 35 km).
For Information Visit : AP TEMPLES
FAQs about Vontimitta Kodanda Ramalayam
Q1: Why is there no Hanuman idol in the main sanctum?
The idols were installed by Jambavantha, and the temple depicts a specific phase of the Ramayana where Hanuman had not yet joined the trio in that specific "Ekashila" representation. However, there is a separate Sanjeeva Raya (Hanuman) temple in the complex.
Q2: Is Vontimitta an official state temple?
Yes. After the state bifurcation, the Government of Andhra Pradesh officially adopted Vontimitta as the venue for the state-level Sri Rama Navami celebrations, a role previously held by Bhadrachalam.
Q3: What is "Ekashila Nagaram"?
Vontimitta is often called Ekashila Nagaram because the main deities (Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana) are carved from a single piece of rock.
Q4: Can we see the statues of Vontudu and Mittudu?
Yes, according to local belief, the two statues at the temple's entrance are the transformed figures of the builders Vontudu and Mittudu.
This video provides a visual tour of the temple's magnificent architecture and shares the deep-rooted spiritual stories that make Vontimitta a must-visit destination.
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