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- 1 Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple Darshan Timings Travel Guide
Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple Darshan Timings Travel Guide
Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple in Andhra Pradesh is a sacred pilgrimage site that draws devotees and travellers alike seeking spiritual darshan, breathtaking architecture and a deep cultural experience. The main deity here is Lord Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana in a rare single-stone idol, making it one of the most revered temples in South India. The temple’s daily darshan timings are structured to accommodate early morning and evening devotees, with specific seva schedules throughout the day, creating an unforgettable spiritual atmosphere.
Quick Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Vontimitta, Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh, India |
| Temple Name | Sri Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple |
| Darshan Timings | 5:30 AM – 1:00 PM & 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM (General) with seva slots like Suprabhatha & Aradhana |
| Special Darshan Fee | ₹50 per person (approx. may vary) |
| Main Deity | Lord Rama with Sita & Lakshmana (single stone) |
| Managed By | Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) |
| Official Source | Wikipedia – Kodandarama Temple, Vontimitta |
About Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple
The Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple was built in the 16th century under Chola and Vijayanagara influences and is known for its grand Dravidian architecture and sculptural brilliance. This temple houses an extraordinary idol of Lord Rama, Sita and Lakshmana carved from a single stone, giving it the popular name “Ekashila Temple”.
Additionally, the temple complex is one of the largest in the region and has been under the administrative care of the Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) since 2015. A visit here is not just a religious experience but also a process through history and art.
How To Reach
By Air
The nearest airport to Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple is Kadapa Airport (RJLM), approximately 36 km away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a pre-booked car to reach Vontimitta in roughly 1 hour depending on traffic.
By Train
Vontimitta does not have its own railway station, but Kadapa Railway Station and Rajampet Railway Station are the closest major stations. Trains from major cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad, and Bengaluru connect to Kadapa/Rajampet. From there, local taxis, auto-rickshaws and buses can take you to the temple which is about a 30-minute drive.
By Road
Vontimitta is well connected by road. National Highway and state highways link it to Kadapa (≈25 km), Tirupati (≈115 km), and Hyderabad (≈450 km). Government and private buses serve regular routes to Vontimitta from nearby cities. If you are driving, the scenic route from Kadapa through rural Andhra landscapes is pleasant and direct.
Temple Darshan Timings & Seva Schedule
The daily darshan timings at Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple are generally divided into morning and evening sessions to accommodate devotees throughout the day. These times are derived from temple schedules published by local travel sources and darshan schedules observed by visitors.
| Time | Activity / Darshan |
|---|---|
| 5:15 AM | Temple Opens |
| 5:30 – 6:00 AM | Suprabhatha Seva |
| 6:00 – 7:00 AM | General Sarva Darshan |
| 7:00 – 7:30 AM | Modati Aradhana |
| 7:30 AM – 1:00 PM | General Darshan |
| 1:00 – 2:00 PM | Temple Closed for Break |
| 2:00 – 8:00 PM | Evening Darshan |
| 8:30 – 8:45 PM | Temple Closes |
Timings may slightly vary during festivals and special occasions, so always check closer to your visit date. Devotees can also attend additional sevas like Archana and Sahasranama which are offered at specific times.
Booking And Ticket Information
Unlike larger temples with fully online darshan booking, Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple darshan is generally available on a walk-in basis for general pilgrims. However, there are optional paid services and special tickets you can book to improve your visit:
- Special Darshan Ticket: Often priced around ₹50 per person (may change at the temple’s discretion). This ticket helps you get quicker access during peak hours.
- Archana & Seva Booking: For specific pujas like Abhishekam or Sahasranama Archana, you can enquire directly at the temple counter once you reach the complex. Fees vary by service and season.
If you are visiting during major festivals (e.g., Rama Navami), plan ahead as lines and crowds surge, and in such cases some pilgrims prefer contacting the temple office or local tour operators for advance arrangements. There is no widely published official online darshan booking portal yet, but temple notices and counters at the premises provide up-to-date information.
Insider Tips From Personal Visit Experience
When I visited Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple in the early morning, the atmosphere was unlike any other. The cool dawn air, the sound of temple bells at Suprabhatha Seva around 5:30 AM, and the soft glow of lamps made the first darshan deeply peaceful. The architectural details of the mandapa and the towering gopurams are best observed without the rush of crowds.
What surprised me most was how the single stone carving of Rama, Sita and Lakshmana commands such attention that many devotees linger longer than expected. I personally recommend arriving before 6:00 AM to be part of the morning rituals — it’s an experience I still recall vividly. Sitting by the temple tanks after darshan, watching locals offer prayers, added an authentic cultural layer that you won’t get from photos alone.
Also, for photography lovers, the golden hours (just after sunrise and just before sunset) offer dramatic light on the carved pillars and temple walls. Do note that during midday (1 PM–2 PM) the temple is closed for cleaning and rest, so plan your schedule accordingly.
Nearby Attractions And Distances
Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple is well-placed for short excursions to other cultural and natural attractions around Kadapa District:
- Kadapa City: ~25 km – Historic town with temples and markets.
- Rajampet: ~15 km – Town gateway for travellers heading to Vontimitta.
- Tirupati: ~115 km – Famous Tirupati temples, perfect for a combined pilgrimage.
- Srikalahasti: ~130 km – Ancient Shiva temple town.
- Brahmamgari Matham: ~100 km – Spiritual centre linked to Saint Brahmamgaru.
- Horsley Hills: ~150 km – Cool hill station for nature lovers.
Best Time To Visit
The best seasons to visit Vontimitta Kodanda Rama Swamy Temple are from October to March, when the weather in Andhra Pradesh is cooler and more comfortable for exploring. Early mornings are especially pleasant for darshan and photography. Avoid midday heat, particularly in summer months (April–June), when temperatures can soar.
Additionally, festival times like Rama Navami are spiritually rich but also crowded; if you enjoy festive energy and large gatherings, those dates are rewarding. For a calm, reflective pilgrimage, weekdays outside peak festival seasons work best.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Daily Darshan Timings?
The temple generally opens by 5:15 AM with structured darshan slots morning and evening, closing around 8:45 PM.
Is There An Entry Fee?
General darshan is free, but there may be a small fee (approx. ₹50) for special darshan tickets. Fees for specific sevas vary.
Can I Book Online?
Most darshan is walk-in. Special sevas might be arranged on site. There isn’t a widely promoted official online booking portal as of now. Check the temple counter for latest options.
Are There Accommodation Options Nearby?
Yes, Vontimitta has guest houses and lodges. For more choices, Kadapa and Rajampet provide hotels of varied budgets within 30 km.
Is Photography Allowed?
Photography is usually allowed in the outer temple complex but not in the sanctum. Respect temple norms and signage.