The Vontimitta Kodandarama Swamy Temple is a sacred destination that beautifully blends devotion, history, and architecture. Located in Vontimitta village of YSR Kadapa district, Andhra Pradesh, this ancient Rama temple is deeply rooted in the Ramayana tradition and is admired for its calm spiritual atmosphere.

Unlike many crowded pilgrimage centers, Vontimitta offers a peaceful and reflective temple experience, making it ideal for devotees who seek spiritual connection along with historical depth.

VONTIMITTA TEMPLE

Historical Significance of Vontimitta Temple

The history of the Vontimitta Kodandarama Swamy Temple goes back to the 16th century, during the reign of the Vijayanagara Empire. According to legend, the temple was built by two brothers named Vontudu and Mittudu, who were devoted followers of Lord Rama. Their dedication was so intense that they constructed this temple as an act of pure devotion, and the village later took the name Vontimitta in their honor.

The temple stands as a fine example of Vijayanagara stone architecture. Built entirely with stone and without mortar, it reflects the advanced engineering skills of that era. The tall pillars, carved mandapams, and open courtyards highlight the artistic excellence of the craftsmen. Since the main deities are carved from a single stone, the temple town is also known as Ekasilanagaram, meaning “the city of one stone.”

In later years, the temple came under the care of
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD), which now manages temple rituals, festivals, and maintenance.

Presiding Deity and Religious Importance

The temple is dedicated to Lord Kodandarama Swamy, who is worshipped along with Goddess Sita and Lord Lakshmana.

vontimitta-Kodandarama

What Makes This Temple Unique?

• Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana are carved from one single stone
• Lord Rama is shown in a standing posture
• The temple represents Rama Pattabhishekam, portraying Rama as a crowned king

Most Rama temples highlight the heroic or warrior aspect of the Ramayana. In contrast, Vontimitta focuses on Rama as an ideal ruler, symbolizing peace, dharma, and righteous governance. This spiritual theme gives the temple a serene and fulfilling aura.

The temple also has strong links to Telugu devotional literature. Great saints like Bammera Potana and Annamacharya are believed to have visited this sacred place and drawn inspiration from its spiritual energy.

Why Hanuman Is Not Inside the Main Temple

One aspect that often surprises devotees is the absence of Lord Hanuman in the main sanctum.

Spiritual Reason Behind This

Vontimitta Temple represents Lord Rama after his coronation. According to belief, Hanuman, the symbol of ultimate devotion, stepped away after fulfilling his duty of serving Rama. Since the temple depicts Rama’s life after victory and coronation, Hanuman is not shown beside him.

However, devotees can still offer prayers at a separate Hanuman shrine located outside the main temple complex.

Vontimitta Temple Timings and Darshan Details

Temple Timings:

• Opening Time: 5:15 AM
• Closing Time: 8:45 PM

Darshan & Seva Schedule:

• 5:30 – 6:00 AM: Suprabhatha Seva
• 6:00 – 7:00 AM: Sarva Darshan
• 7:00 – 7:30 AM: Modati Aradhana
• 7:30 – 11:00 AM: Sarva Darshan
• 11:30 AM – 6:00 PM: Sarva Darshan
• 6:30 – 8:45 PM: Evening Darshan

Note: Darshan timings may change on festival days.

Entry Fee and Darshan Tickets

• General Darshan: Free for all devotees
• Antaralaya Darshan (Inner Sanctum): ₹50 (subject to availability)
• Special Darshan: Available mainly during festivals

There is no compulsory ticket for normal darshan, making the temple easily accessible to everyone.

Annadanam and Food Timings

The temple provides free Annadanam to devotees every day.

Food Details:

• Lunch Timing: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Prasadam: Distributed after important rituals

The food served is simple, wholesome, and prepared in a hygienic manner, reflecting the temple’s tradition of service.

Accommodation Near Vontimitta Temple

Stay Options at Vontimitta:

• Common halls for pilgrims
• Limited lodging during festival periods
• TTD dormitories (available seasonally)

Hotels Near Vontimitta:

Since accommodation in the village is limited, many devotees prefer staying in Kadapa town, which is about 25–30 km away.

• Budget lodges
• Mid-range hotels
• Government tourism guest houses

How to Reach Vontimitta Kodandarama Swamy Temple

By Train:

• Vontimitta Railway Station: Around 1.5 km from the temple
• Kadapa Railway Station: About 26 km

By Road:

• Well-connected by APSRTC buses from Kadapa, Tirupati, and Rajampeta
• Taxis and autos are easily available

By Air:

• Nearest Airport: Kadapa Airport (approximately 30 km)

Online Booking Information

• Darshan: No online booking required
• Accommodation: Details released by TTD during festivals
• Special Sevas: Mostly conducted during Sri Rama Navami

Devotees are advised to follow official TTD announcements during peak seasons.

Festivals Celebrated at the Temple

• Sri Rama Navami (main annual festival)
• Sri Sita Rama Kalyanam
• Vaikunta Ekadasi
• Ugadi
• Brahmotsavam

Sri Rama Navami is celebrated on a grand scale, with cultural programs, devotional music, and night-long celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is entry free at Vontimitta Temple?

Yes, general darshan is completely free.

Who built the Vontimitta Kodandarama Swamy Temple?

The temple was built by Vontudu and Mittudu during the Vijayanagara period.

Why is Hanuman not present inside the sanctum?

The temple represents Rama after coronation, and Hanuman’s role was considered complete. A separate shrine exists outside.

Are online darshan tickets available?

No, online booking is not required for regular darshan.

Is free food available for devotees?

Yes, Annadanam is provided daily.

Final Thoughts

The Vontimitta Kodandarama Swamy Temple is a spiritually uplifting destination that reflects the calm, fulfilled phase of Lord Rama’s life. With its historical richness, unique temple traditions, and peaceful surroundings, it stands as one of the most meaningful pilgrimage sites in Andhra Pradesh.

For devotees looking beyond crowded temples and seeking a deeper spiritual experience, Vontimitta is truly worth a visit.