Kadapa Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Temple History :
This is the only temple Lord Rama in India without the idol of Lord Anjaneya. The figures of three deities viz., Rama, Sita and Lakshmana are carved on a single rock. The temple was specially mentioned and praised by the 16th century French traveller Tavernier.
Ancient Kodanda Rama Temple. This temple is the only shrine in the country where Sri Seeta Rama kalyanam is held in the night. The Vontimitta Kodandarama Swamy Temple was chosen as the alternative venue of the official celebrations in 2015. Mahakavi Pothana spent his life here and dedicated his Andhra Mahabhagavatam to this Lord.
Vavilakolanu Subbarao translated Valmiki Ramayana into telugu and dedicated to this Lord.
A week long Brahmotsavam celebrated in the months of March -April is most colourful and draws thousands of devotees from far and wide.
Civil Structure of Kodanda Rama Temple :
The temple is built in Vijayanagara style of architecture within a rectangular yard enclosed by walls. It has three ornate Gopurams towers of which the central tower, which faces east, is the entrance gateway to the temple, the other two towers face north and south.
The walls of the gopuras and mandapas and pillars of this temple are embellished with intricate carvings with scenes from Hindu mythology. The Rangamantapa supported on 32 pillars has exquisite sculptures and the roof of the central part is built up with many decorative brackets or corbels.
How to reach this Temple :
Vontimitta is located at a distance of 25 Km from Kadapa town on Kadapa – Tirupathi Highway. The nearest airport to Vontimitta is Tirupathi, which is about 130 km away. It requires about 3 hours travel to reach Vontimitta by taxi or bus. Chennai 324 km is the nearest International Airport.
