Tucked away in the serene town of Ontimitta in the Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh, the Sri Kodanda Rama Swami Temple stands as a monumental blend of devotion, architecture, and mythology. Revered as one of the finest examples of Vijayanagara temple architecture, this temple is often hailed as Dakshina Ayodhya (Southern Ayodhya) owing to its close association with Lord Rama and his divine leelas.
🧾 Origin & Historical Foundation
📜 Legend Behind the Name "Ontimitta"
The name Ontimitta has mythological roots. According to local lore, two robbers turned into ardent devotees of Lord Rama after a miraculous encounter. They offered themselves completely to the service of Rama and later became saints. When one of them died, the other buried him and marked the place with an "Onti" (single) stone, hence the name Ontimitta — meaning “single stone mound.”
🏗️ Foundation & Patronage
The temple is believed to have been built during the 16th century under the patronage of the Vijayanagara kings. The temple was later enhanced and maintained by local rulers and devotees.
French traveler Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, who visited India in the 17th century, mentioned the temple as one of the grandest and most beautiful in the region.
🛕 Architectural Grandeur
The Sri Kodanda Rama Swami Temple is a magnificent example of Dravidian-style temple architecture inspired by Vijayanagara design principles.
🪷 Highlights:
Ekasila Murti: The idol of Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana is carved out of a single stone, an extraordinary feat of stone craftsmanship.
Rare Depiction: In most temples, Sita is depicted on Rama’s left, but here she is on his right, a representation associated with the wedding posture.
Absence of Hanuman Shrine: Hanuman, though a principal devotee, does not have a separate shrine. Instead, his image is carved at the feet of Rama, indicating eternal servitude.
Mandapams: The temple has intricately carved pillared halls depicting floral motifs, dancers, musicians, and scenes from the Ramayana.
Rajagopuram: Though incomplete, the towering gateway adds majesty to the temple.
🌸 Spiritual Essence & Religious Significance
This temple holds deep significance as:
A spiritual seat of Rama Bhakti in Southern India.
It is considered more spiritually potent after the Bhadrachalam Temple became part of Telangana.
Official Rama Navami celebrations of Andhra Pradesh are conducted here.
🕉️ Daily Rituals and Worship
🧘♂️ Pujas and Rituals
Suprabhata Seva: Early morning awakening of the deity.
Abhishekam: Ritual bathing of the idols with holy water, milk, curd, and honey.
Alankarana: The deities are adorned with flowers, silk, and jewelry.
Naivedyam: Food offerings are made to the Lord, including fruits, sweets, and cooked rice.
Deepa Aradhana: Worship with oil/ghee lamps in the evening.
Sahasranama Archana: Chanting of the 1000 names of Lord Rama.
🌅 Aarti Timings
Morning Aarti: Around 7:00 AM after Suprabhata Seva and Abhishekam.
Evening Aarti: Around 6:30 PM followed by Deepa Aradhana.
(Timings may vary during festivals and special events.)
🎊 Festivals Celebrated
🌕 Sri Rama Navami Brahmotsavam
The biggest festival, celebrated in March-April, draws thousands of devotees.
Grand Kalyanam (celestial wedding) is conducted, re-enacting Rama and Sita’s divine union.
Processions, cultural performances, and spiritual discourses mark the occasion.
🐒 Hanuman Jayanti
Celebrates the birth of Hanuman, with special prayers and chanting of Sundarakanda.
🌸 Ugadi & Vaikunta Ekadasi
Marked by traditional rituals, floral decorations, and religious fervor.
🧑🤝🧑 Devotee Culture and Traditions
Devotees from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu, and beyond visit the temple with deep devotion. Many believe that prayers offered here for family harmony, child birth, and health are answered quickly.
Devotees often take a pradakshina (circumambulation) around the temple and offer tulsi garlands, bananas, and coconut as symbols of devotion.
🧭 Travel Guide
📍 How to Reach
By Air: Nearest airport – Tirupati (~150 km)
By Train: Nearest station – Kadapa (~25 km)
By Road: Well-connected via NH-40; buses and taxis are available from Kadapa, Rajampet, and Tirupati.
🏨 Accommodation
Budget & Deluxe hotels in Kadapa and Rajampet.
Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) guesthouses nearby.
Limited dharamshalas and rooms available for pilgrims near the temple.
📅 Best Time to Visit
October to April is ideal.
Visit during Sri Rama Navami for an unforgettable spiritual experience.
👕 Dress Code
Traditional Indian attire is recommended/required.
Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, or western outfits inside the temple premises.
🧘♀️ Cultural & Spiritual Atmosphere
Set amidst tranquil landscapes and ancient traditions, the temple is not only a religious destination but also a cultural sanctuary. The peaceful environment, echoing chants, and the sacred aura of Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana provide a deeply soul-refreshing experience.
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
Gandikota Fort & Gorge – "Grand Canyon of India"
Belum Caves – Ancient underground cave system
Pushpagiri Temples
Brahmamgari Matham – A spiritual ashram dedicated to Sri Potuluri Veerabrahmam Garu
The Ontimitta Sri Kodanda Rama Swami Temple is more than just a place of worship — it is a timeless legacy of devotion, heritage, and divinity. From its mythological legends to unparalleled architecture, and its deep-rooted cultural essence, the temple stands tall as one of the most iconic shrines in Southern India.
Whether you are a devotee, history lover, architecture enthusiast, or a spiritual traveler, Ontimitta is a destination that will resonate with your soul.
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