Vontimitta. It is famous for the Kodanda Ramaswamy Temple, which was built by the Chola and Vijayanagara kings. A unique feature of the temple is the absence of the Hanuman Idol, which makes it a one-of-its kind temple in India. The images of Rama, Lakshmana and Sita are Carved on single piece of rock. Splended architecturally, it boasts of a towering gateway, a large beautiful sculptured Mandapam with thirty-two pillars called the "Madhyrangamandapam" leading to inner chamber and the sanctum. Few temples in the country can rival it for the sheer magnificence and beauty of its intricate carvings and fineness of finishing.In fact, the well-known French Traveller, Tavernier, described the temple as "one of the grandest pagodas in the whole India". According to the legand Rama, Lakshamana and Sita spent some time here in the forest during the period of their exile. Once to quench the thirst of Sita, Rama shot an arrow deep in to the earth, upon which sweet water gushed out. Later, with this Perennaial water spring, two small tanks named Ramthirtham and Lakshamamthirtham were formed. It is also said that Bammerapothana, Author of Srimadandra Bhagavatham hails from this place. How to Reach Located 25 kms from Cuddapah on the State Highway leading to Tirupathi. Best Time to Visit The annual festival is celebrated with many splendors for nine days during March-April in connection with Sri Ramanavami and attracts thousands of Pilgrims. .
