Contents

1 Kodandarama Temple, Tirupati: The Divine Residence of Lord Rama

Kodandarama Temple, Tirupati: The Divine Residence of Lord Rama

Name: Sri Kodandaramaswamy Temple
Address: Near Railway Station, Tirupati, Tirupati, Chittoor, 517501, IN
Telephone: +91-877-226-4272

Located in the holy city of Tirupati, amidst the spiritual buzz surrounding the mighty Venkateswara Swamy, stands the Sri Kodandaramaswamy Temple—a sanctuary of serenity and a testament to the region’s deep Vaishnava roots. Dedicated to Lord Rama, the seventh avatar of Vishnu, this temple is one of the most significant religious sites in the Chittoor district of Andhra Pradesh.

1. Introduction & Spiritual Essence

Primary Deity and Form

The presiding deity here is Sri Kodandaramaswamy (Kodanda meaning bow, and Rama meaning the charming one). He is enshrined along with his consort, Sita Devi, and his devoted brother, Lakshmana. Unlike the dynamic warrior Rama seen in some iconography, the deity here is serene, embodying the ideal of Dharma (righteousness). To the left of the main shrine is a dedicated sub-shrine for Anjaneya (Hanuman), the eternal devotee.

Phalaśruti: Why Devotees Visit

According to temple legends and the spiritual beliefs of devotees, a visit to the Kodandarama Temple is believed to remove obstacles caused by Rahu-Ketu doshas (astrological afflictions). It is said that worshipping Lord Rama here grants Sakala Saubhagyas (all forms of prosperity) and helps cleanse ancestral karma. The temple is a spiritual anchor for those seeking stability in family life and success in righteous endeavors.

2. Historical Origins & Scriptural Legend

The Dravidian Lineage

According to temple records and architectural analysis, the Kodandarama Temple was constructed in the 10th Century CE. While the specific dynasty that commissioned the original structure is often debated among local historians, the current Dravidian style architecture suggests strong influences from the Vijayanagara era, who were prolific builders in the Tirupati region. The temple has undergone significant renovations over the centuries to preserve its sanctity and structural integrity.

Scriptural Legend: The Chola Connection

Tradition holds that the origin of this temple is linked to the legendary Chola King, Thondaman Chakravarti. It is believed that during his exile, the King came to this region to perform penance. Through a divine vision, he discovered the self-manifested (Swayambhu) idol of Lord Rama. Overjoyed, he constructed the temple to enshrine the Lord, establishing a ritualistic tradition that continues to this day.

3. Architectural Marvels

Dravidian Style & Vastu

The temple exemplifies the Dravidian architectural style, characterized by its vertical temple towers (Shikharas) and extensive pillared halls. The layout adheres to Vastu Shastra, ensuring the energy flow aligns with the cosmic forces. The Garbhagriha (sanctum sanctorum) is positioned strategically to align with solar movements during specific equinoxes.

Sculpture and Mandapas

The Mandapa (hall of worship) features intricate carvings depicting scenes from the Ramayana. The pillars are adorned with motifs of Yalis (mythical creatures) and floral geometric patterns typical of South Indian temple art. The exterior walls feature niches housing various deities, reflecting the syncretic traditions of Vaishnavism. While the temple is significant, it is not listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

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4. Darshan & Ritual Logistics

For a seamless spiritual experience in 2026, devotees should adhere to the following schedule and procedures. The Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD) manages the administration of this temple.

Daily Temple Timings

The temple generally opens early for Suprabhatam and closes late after Ekantha Seva. However, standard visiting hours are:

Session	Timing
Morning Darshan	07:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon Break	12:00 PM – 04:00 PM
Evening Darshan	04:00 PM – 08:30 PM
Rojala Seva (Mon, Wed, Fri)	07:00 PM

Key Sevas and Online Booking

Devotees can perform Abhishekam (ritual bathing of the idol) and Archana (recitation of names) to the deity. As of 2026, all seva bookings are managed via the official TTD app or website.

Arjita Brahmotsavam: Performed every Friday evening.
Special Entry Darshan: Available for ₹300, usually includes laddu prasadam.
Booking Platform: Visit ttdsevaonline.com. Advance booking opens 120 days prior to the date of visit.

2026 Major Festivals

Sri Rama Navami: April 6, 2026. The grandest event here, featuring Hanumantha Vahana Seva and the celestial wedding of Sita and Rama.
Brahmotsavams: Scheduled between March 25th and April 2nd, 2026. This 9-day festival includes the Rathotsavam (Chariot procession).
Teppotsavam (Float Festival): Celebrated on the Sri Ramachandra Pushkarini (temple tank) during April 2026.
Vaikunta Ekadasi: December 30, 2026 (tentative).

5. Practical Visitor Guidance

Dress Code & Etiquette

The temple follows a strict traditional dress code. Men must wear Dhoti or trousers with a shirt (no vest/t-shirt). Women must wear Saree, Half-Saree, or Chudidhar with Dupatta. Western attire (jeans, shorts) is strictly prohibited inside the sanctum.

Photography & Electronic Devices

Photography is strictly prohibited inside the temple complex and sanctum sanctorum. Mobile phones are allowed but must be switched to silent mode. There are free cloakrooms available near the entrance to deposit large bags and electronics.

Accessibility & Crowd Management

For accessibility, the temple has a ramp for wheelchair users near the eastern entrance. However, the inner sanctum involves stairs, which may require assistance.

Best Time to Visit: To avoid crowds, visit between 7:00 AM and 9:00 AM on weekdays. Avoid weekends leading up to festival dates. During May and June, Tirupati experiences high temperatures (up to 40°C), so carrying a water bottle is essential.

6. Pilgrimage Connectivity

How to Reach

Nearest Airport: Tirupati International Airport (TIR), located in Renigunta (approx. 15 km from the city). Direct flights are available from major metros like Hyderabad, Bangalore, and Chennai.
Railway Station: Tirupati Main Railway Station (TPTY) is the major railhead well-connected to all parts of India. The temple is a short auto-rickshaw ride (10-15 mins) from the station.
Road: Tirupati is well-connected via NH 71 and NH 40. Buses run frequently from Chennai (130 km), Bangalore (250 km), and Hyderabad (550 km).

Nearby Sacred Sites (The Circuit)

Padmavathi Temple (Tiruchanur): Located 5 km from Tirupati, dedicated to Goddess Padmavathi (Consort of Lord Venkateswara). It is ideal to visit this temple before proceeding to Tirumala.
Srikalahasti Temple: A Shiva temple located 38 km north of Tirupati, famous for the Rahu-Ketu Sarpa Dosha Pooja.
Kapila Theertham: A waterfall and temple complex situated at the base of the Tirumala hills, just 2 km from the Kodandarama Temple.

7. Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is there a VIP darshan entry at Kodandarama Temple?

Yes, the temple offers a Special Entry Darshan (₹300) similar to the Tirumala system. Additionally, devotees with a Seva bundle from the Tirumala temple can often access priority darshan here.

2. Is the temple open for 24 hours?

No, unlike the main Tirumala temple, the Kodandarama Temple follows standard timings (typically 07:00 AM to 08:30 PM). However, on special days like Rama Navami, it remains open for extended hours.

3. Can we perform marriages or naming ceremonies in this temple?

Yes, the temple administration allows small ceremonies like Sashtiapthapoorthi (60th birthday) and marriages in the designated halls. One must apply through the TTD website at least 3 months in advance.

4. What is the significance of the Hanuman sub-shrine?

Here, Hanuman is revered as Jwala Hanuman. It is believed that praying here instills immense courage and devotion in the devotee, mirroring the qualities of Hanuman himself.

5. Is parking available near the temple?

Yes, a paid parking lot is available near the railway station, from which the temple is a 10-minute walk. Direct parking at the temple is limited due to narrow streets in the old city area.

Contact Details

Official Address: Sri Kodandaramaswamy Temple, Tirupati, Chittoor District, Andhra Pradesh 517501.

Administration: Managed by Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanams (TTD).

Helpline: +91-877-226-4272 (Note: This is a central TTD number; local temple lines may vary).

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