Sri Rama Temple , Ramalayam , Ramatheertham, Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh 535218

Sri Rama Temple , Ramalayam , Ramatheertham, Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh 535218 - History , Timings, how to reach

Sri Rama Temple (Ramalayam) at Ramatheertham in Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh 535218, is a revered temple dedicated to Lord Rama along with Sita and Lakshmana. Located in the historic Ramatheertham temple complex surrounded by scenic hills, the temple is closely associated with ancient legends and attracts devotees throughout the year, especially during Sri Rama Navami and other Vaishnavite festivals.

The Sri Ramatheertham temple complex in Vizianagaram is a unique spiritual site where ancient Vedic traditions, Buddhism, and Jainism have converged for over two millennia. According to local legend, the primary idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana were originally worshipped by the Pandavas during their exile and were later lost to time. In the 16th century, the Raja of Vizianagaram rediscovered these sacred idols in a local pond (the theertham) following a divine dream, leading to the construction of the present-day temple at the foot of the hills. The historical significance of the site extends beyond the Rama temple to the surrounding three hills—Bodhikonda, Gurubhaktulakonda, and Ghanikonda. These hills house the ruins of Buddhist monasteries and Jain rock-cut caves dating back to the 3rd century BCE, indicating that the area was a major center for diverse religious thought in ancient Kalinga. Today, the site remains a powerful center of devotion, famous for the sacred tortoises in its pond and its role as a bridge between Andhra Pradesh's rich archaeological past and its living Hindu traditions.

🚌By Road: It is approximately 12–15 km from Vizianagaram city. Local buses and autos are frequently available from the Vizianagaram APSRTC Bus Stand to Nellimarla and Ramatheertham.

🚉By Rail: The nearest major junction is Vizianagaram (VZM), about 15 km away. The smaller Nellimarla station is closer (about 6 km), but fewer express trains stop there.

🛩️By Air: Visakhapatnam International Airport (VTZ) is the closest airport, roughly 75 km away.

🛕Lord Sri Ramachandra Swamy

🛕Sita Devi

🛕Lakshmana

🛕The Sacred Tortoises: A unique feature of this temple is the presence of numerous tortoises in the temple pond and premises that bear marks resembling the Vishnu Namam on their shells.

🛕Rama Sthambham: A victory pillar (Sthambham) installed by the renowned spiritual leader Sri Pedda Jeeyar Swamy.

🛕Shiva Temple: A newer Shiva shrine (constructed around 2007) sits adjacent to the main temple, featuring Goddess Sri Kamakshi.

🌹Sri Rama Navami: The biggest festival, featuring grand Kalyanotsavam (celestial wedding) and processions.

🌹Vaikunta Ekadasi: Thousands of devotees visit for the Giri Pradakshina (circumambulation of the hills).

🌹Bheeshma Ekadasi: Considered the "birthday" of the current temple installation.

🌹Mahasivaratri: Celebrated with great fervor at the adjacent Shiva temple.