Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple (Tirupati)

Spiritual Guide
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Temple Overview
Temple Overview: The Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple is one of the most beautiful and historically significant shrines in Tirupati. Dedicated to Lor...

Temple Overview: The Sri Kodandarama Swamy Temple is one of the most beautiful and historically significant shrines in Tirupati. Dedicated to Lord Rama, his consort Goddess Sita, and his brother Lakshmana, the temple is famous for its intricate stone carvings and the serene presence of the deities. Unlike many other Rama temples where Lord Rama is depicted in a coronation scene, here the deities are seen in their "Aranya Vasa" (forest exile) form. The temple is managed by TTD and is a major hub for Ramanavami celebrations in South India.
History & Legend: 
According to local legend, this temple marks the spot where Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana stayed for a night while returning to Ayodhya after the battle in Lanka. It is said that the sage Jambavan requested the Lord to stay here, and the deities later manifested as idols. Historically, the temple was built by a Chola king in the 10th century and was later significantly developed during the Vijayanagara period. The majestic Rajagopuram and the pillars in the Madhyaranga Mandapam are classic examples of 15th-century architecture.

Temple Timings

Morning Darshan: 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Evening Darshan: 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM

  • Special Abhishekam at 5:30 AM
  • Maha Aarti at 7:30 PM
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Kodhanda Ramaswamy Temple
Essential Visitor Information
Temple Timings(Daily)
  • Temple Opening: 05:00 AM.
  • Suprabhatam: 05:00 AM – 05:30 AM.
  • Morning Sarva Darshan: 06:30 AM – 12:00 PM.
  • Afternoon Sarva Darshan: 01:00 PM – 05:00 PM.
  • Evening Sarva Darshan: 06:00 PM – 08:30 PM.
  • Night Closure: 09:00 PM.
  • Note: The temple is closed for Naivedyam (food offering) from 12:00 PM–01:00 PM and 05:00 PM–06:00 PM.
Detailed Darshanam Types & Bookings
  • Sarva Darshan (Free): The standard walk-in entry. It is rarely crowded except on Saturdays and festival days.
  • Special Entrance (₹20): A faster queue ticket available at the counter near the main entrance.
  • Divya Darshan Tokens: Devotees who have completed the Tirumala footpath trek sometimes use this temple as a "thank you" stop before heading home.
Sevas & Rituals: Timings & How To Book
  • Daily Sevas:
  • Suprabhatam (05:00 AM): The awakening ritual. Cost: ₹10.
  • Archana (05:30 AM): Chanting of the Lord's names. Cost: ₹5.
  • Thomala Seva (06:00 AM): Floral decoration. Cost: ₹10.
  • Ekanta Seva (08:30 PM): The final sleep ritual. Cost: ₹10.
  • Weekly Special Sevas:
  • Abhishekam (Saturdays at 06:00 AM): The most popular weekly ritual where the deities are bathed with holy waters. Cost: ₹100.
  • How to Book: Most daily sevas are Current Booking (offline) at the temple counter. However, for major events like Kalyanotsavam, you should check the TTD website 60 days in advance.
  • VIP Protocol: While there is no formal L1/L2 system here, protocol entry for dignitaries is managed by the Temple Peshkar during general darshan breaks.
Festivals & Important Days 2026
  • Sri Rama Navami: March 27, 2026. (The biggest 9-day festival; includes the grand Rathotsavam/Chariot festival).
  • Hanuman Jayanti: May 2026. (Special pujas at the Anjaneya Swamy shrine located opposite the temple).
  • Annual Brahmotsavam: March/April 2026. (Timed around Rama Navami, featuring beautiful vahanam processions through the city streets).
  • Ugadi (Telugu New Year): March 19, 2026. (Special Alankaram and Panchanga Sravanam)
Annaprasdham & Prasadham
  • he Laddu: A dedicated TTD counter near the exit sells fresh laddus.
  • Free Meals: While there is no meal hall inside this temple, it is located very close to the main TTD Annaprasadham centers in the city.
  • Pulihora & Vada: Often available as Arjitha Seva prasadams at the counter.
Dress Code & Etiquette
  • Men: Dhoti or Kurta-Pyjama is preferred. Trousers are allowed for general darshan.
  • Women: Saree or Chudidar with Dupatta.
  • Etiquette: No photography inside the sanctum. It is customary to visit the Anjaneya Swamy Temple (located directly opposite the main entrance) after visiting Lord Rama.
Location & Accessibility
  • Location: Located in the city center, about 1.5 km from the Railway Station.
  • Transport: Easily accessible by auto or a Tirupati360 Cab.
  • Accessibility: The temple is on flat ground with very few steps, making it excellent for senior citizens.
Tirupati 360 Suggestions
  • The "Rama Path": We recommend visiting this temple on a Saturday morning to witness the Abhishekam.
  • Photography: The outer Rajagopuram is one of the most photogenic spots in Tirupati. Use the golden hour (5 PM) for the best photos of the carvings.
  • Shopping: The area around this temple is known for traditional gold and silver jewelry shops—great for those looking for authentic Tirupati designs.
Nearby Attractions
  • Sri Govindaraja Swamy Temple: Just 1 km away.
  • Ramachandra Pushkarini: The sacred temple tank located a short walk from the main shrine.
  • Tirupati Main Market: Located within walking distance for local shopping.