Religious Tourism: Vizianagaram District | APPSC State Specific Preparation Course - APPSC (Andhra Pradesh) PDF Download

Ramanarayanam

About Ramanarayanam

• Ramanarayanam is situated in Vizianagaram, known as the "CITY OF MUSIC," around 50 KM from Vizag Airport and 15 KM from the upcoming Greenfield Airport in Andhra Pradesh. 
• It stands out as a spiritual theme park, offering a serene escape for those seeking a spiritual experience. The unique design and architecture of PRANGANAM captivate visitors, providing a rich and rejuvenating experience. 
• This majestic creation exemplifies how noble intentions and passionate dedication can lead to remarkable achievements like Ramanarayanam. 
• Located at Korukonda Road, Vizianagaram, this theme park has garnered global attention, setting new standards for theme parks and spiritual destinations.

A Unique Spiritual Theme Park

• Spanning across 15 acres of land, Ramanarayanam took over a decade to materialize, involving the efforts of numerous artists and artisans who dedicated themselves to its creation. 
• The park's design is inspired by ancient Hindu architecture and mythology. The lush greenery and vibrant flora within the park offer a soothing environment for tourists and visitors. 
• Ramanarayanam stands out as an exceptional spiritual theme park, not only for its architectural beauty but also for the tranquility it provides to all those who visit.

The Epic of Ramayana

• Ramayana, revered as the holiest epic among Hindus, stands out as a timeless narrative cherished by all. It revolves around Lord Srirama, a symbol of unwavering human values, ethics, and principles that resonate with Hindus globally.
• Swami Vivekananda eloquently praised the purity, chastity, and beauty of Valmiki's language in depicting the life of Rama, emphasizing its simplicity and profound impact on readers.

Unique Theme Park

• Built without soliciting donations, this theme park, inspired by Valmiki's Ramayana, boasts a distinctive architecture resembling a bow and arrow in a two-storey complex.
• The park features various sacred trees like Nakshatra vanam, Narayana vanam, and others, sourced from different parts of India, each holding significance in Indian scriptures.
• Visitors are encouraged to explore the park in the evenings when vibrant lights illuminate the area, creating a celestial ambiance akin to heaven on earth.
• Majestic fountains lining the bow-shaped structure offer a breathtaking spectacle, complemented by the refreshing evening breeze that invigorates visitors with a surge of fresh air.
• Special events such as Sri Seetharamula Kalyanam, cultural performances like Bharata Natyam and Kuchipudi dances, and spiritual discourses add to the park's immersive experience.
• Facilities like battery-operated cars and lifts cater to the needs of elderly and disabled visitors, while children can enjoy the spacious outdoors. The Perla's boutique restaurant, inspired by Chennai's Saravana Bhavan, ensures a satisfying vegetarian dining experience for all.

A Great Epic

• The entrance to the two-storied bow and arrow structure leads visitors into a centrally air-conditioned complex featuring vivid sculptures from the Ramayana.
• Seventy-two laminated moldings, crafted by artisans nationwide, illustrate episodes from Valmiki Ramayana, spanning from BALA KAANDA TO YUDDHA KAANDA.
• Each panel is intricately chiseled, accompanied by bilingual explanations in English and Telugu, engraved on brass plates, with audio support for visitors' enhanced experience.
• At the tip of the arrow gallery stands a majestic 60 feet statue of Sri ABHAYANJANEYA.

A Spiritual Destination

• The complex houses a traditional Vishnu temple but primarily embodies a spiritual essence over religious connotations.
• Artists and artisans from diverse backgrounds have contributed to the project, emphasizing inclusivity across various faiths.
• The PRANAGANAM features a vast library with a plethora of spiritual books, hosting cultural events and providing a meditative space for inner peace.
• Visitors can explore three temples dedicated to Lord Ganesh, Lord Vishnu, and Lord Rama with Goddess Sita, alongside statues of Goddess Lakshmi and Saraswati, surrounded by colorful water fountains.
• Noteworthy are the seven fountains resembling the seven asthras or weapons of Lord Rama scattered throughout the ARROW.

Veda Paatashaala

• A residential Veda Paatashaala managed by Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam (TTD) offers teachings on the four Vedas alongside regular studies.
• Around 70 students are currently enrolled in either the 8-year or 14-year full-time courses focusing on the Vedas and Upanishads.

Ramanarayanam Srimadramayana Pranganam

• RAMANARAYANAM is a unique concept illustrating the Ramayana, initiated by Late Sri Narayanam Narasimha Murthy, Founder and Chairman of NCS Group.
• The temple aims to be more than just a place of worship, emphasizing spiritual teachings and human values derived from the epic.
• After careful selection, 72 significant episodes from the Ramayana were chosen to be transformed into pictorial sculptures by artisans from various parts of the country.
• Despite being accessible by road and operational for a year, RAMANARAYANAM draws in a large daily crowd, with over 25 lakhs pilgrims having visited so far.
• Future plans for RAMANARAYANAM involve enhancing the facilities with musical fountains and entertainment similar to attractions in Sentosa and Miracle Gardens.
• Additionally, plans include establishing a gaushala as a sanctuary for cows, calves, and oxen, while staying connected to the region's cultural heritage.

Development and Expansion

• Following the state's division, Vizag has become a hub for tourism, with the state government aiming to elevate Vizag into a prominent tourist destination.
• RAMANARAYANAM is poised to become a key attraction due to its increasing popularity among tourists and pilgrims.
• If you haven't visited RAMANARAYANAM yet, it is recommended to plan a visit soon to experience its offerings.

Subrahmanyaswamy Temple

• This temple dedicated to Subrahmanyam Swamy is situated at Phoolbaugh Colony, Vizianagaram.
• The statue within the temple stands tall at 40 feet.
• Visitors can explore the temple premises until 7 PM daily.
• Conveniently located just 4 KM away from the Railway Station.

Pydithalli Temple

• Pydithallamma, the village goddess of Vizianagaram Town, is worshipped at this temple.
• A popular destination for all visitors to Vizianagaram.
• The temple complex includes two main temples: Vanam Gudi and Chaduru Gudi.
• Vanam Gudi is positioned opposite the Vizianagaram Railway Station, while Chaduru Gudi hosts the Sirimanu Utsav at 3 Lantens Junction, Vizianagaram.

Dwadasi Jyothirlinga Temple

• This temple, situated in Vizianagaram town at SVN Nagar, showcases prototypes of the twelve Jyothirlingas across India.
• The main idol is the Sphatika Linga, which is unveiled every evening during the 6 PM aarti.
• It offers a serene atmosphere and is conveniently located just 4 km away from the Railway Station/Bus Stand.

Gnyana Saraswati Temple

• Located in Vizianagaram town at SVN Nagar, this temple features Saraswati Ammavaru.
• Regular Aksharabhyasams (initiation into education) ceremonies are conducted here for children.
• It stands out as an exclusive Saraswati temple in the northeast region of Andhra Pradesh.

Kanyaka Parameswari Temple

• Constructed in 1890 by the Komatis, a trading community, in Vizianagaram Town, this temple pays tribute to a village girl from their community.
• The girl sacrificed her life to preserve her honor, leading to the temple's establishment on land donated by the Maharaja of Vizianagaram.

Jagannath Temple

• The Jagannath Temple is situated in Vizianagaram Town.
• It is a significant pilgrimage site for Hindus, located in the coastal town of Puri in Orissa.
• Every twelve years, a replica of the idol of Lord Jagannath is immersed into the sea as per tradition.
• The Maharaja of Vizianagaram requested to bring the replica to Vizianagaram for installation in a temple, but his request was denied by the priests of Puri.
• A group of loyal followers of the Maharaja bravely retrieved the idol from the sea during the immersion ceremony.
• The retrieved idol was then brought to Vizianagaram and enshrined in the Jagannadha Swamy temple.

Gumchi Temple

• The Gumchi Temple, situated in Vizianagaram Town, is dedicated to Lord Hanuman, known for his unwavering devotion to Lord Rama in Hindu mythology.
• Originally constructed in 1713 as a guard post to protect the nearby Amma Koneru (Mother Lake), the structure was later transformed into a temple during the early 20th century upon the discovery of an idol of Lord Hanuman in a nearby well.
• An intriguing aspect of this temple is that it houses the only idol of Hanuman in India with monkey-like paws.

Tripurantaka Swamy Temple

• The Tripurantaka Swamy Temple in Vizianagaram Town, dedicated to Lord Shiva, has a rich history shrouded in folklore and legend.
• Forgotten over time, the temple resurfaced after a dream experienced by the Pusapati king in 1698 AD, leading to the discovery and installation of idols of Lord Rama, Sita, and Lakshmana.
• According to local lore, the Pandavas once prayed at this temple and concealed their weapons beneath a Jami tree, which is believed to possess miraculous properties.
• The temple, with its ancient origins, holds a Shivalinga that geologists estimate extends more than 179 feet beneath the ground, resisting attempts to relocate it.

Ramthirtam in Nellimarla Mandal

• The village is located in Nellimarla mandal, around 10 kilometers to the North East of Vizianagaram.
• Ramtirtham is a significant pilgrimage site in India, featuring a unique temple that integrates three major faiths: Jainism, Buddhism, and Hinduism.
• The temple complex spans across three hills: Bodi Konda, Gurubhakta Konda, and Durga Konda, which house relics from Jain and Buddhist traditions.
• Archaeological findings include commemorative seals, remnants of Chaityas (Prayer Halls), and Stupas (Semi-Circular Buildings) dating back to the Buddhist era.
• Legend has it that these hills served as the dwelling place of Lord Rama during his exile in the forest.
• The primary deity of the temple is Lord Rama, believed to have been enshrined by Yudhishtira, the eldest of the Pandava Princes from the Mahabharata epic.

Kumili in Bhogapuram Mandal

• Kumili Village: Known as Kumbilapuram, located in Denkada Mandal, initially leased to the House of Vizianagaram and served as the capital of the Pusapati dynasty before being relocated to Vizianagaram.
• Kumili Temple: Unique for its inclusive nature, featuring symbolic representations of Hinduism, Islam, and Christianity on its premises.
• Representation of Faiths: The temple showcases carvings of significant national leaders at its entrance, symbolizing various religions and the patriotic spirit of the nation.
• Mural Depictions: Inside the temple, the inner dome displays murals illustrating stories from the Ramayana.
• Elaborate Carvings: Intricate carvings of Hindu deities can be found on the pillars in the temple courtyard.

Govindapuram Temple at Poospatirega Mandal

• Located in Puspatirega Mandal, about 30 kilometers away from Vizianagaram.
• The 'Geeta Bhavan' at Govindapuram is a modern temple in the shape of a Chariot, drawing many visitors.
• Features a prayer and meditation hall for spiritual solace.
• Close to Chintapalli seashore, where a French-built lighthouse stands.

Punyagiri Siva Temple at Srungavarapukota Mandal

• Situated 3 kilometers from S.Kota, the mandal headquarters.
• The ancient temple of Sri Dara-gangamma and Sivalayam is perched atop the hill named 'Punyagiri' in the Eastern Ghats valley at an altitude of 1000 feet above sea level.
• Known for its modest waterfalls and scenic natural surroundings.
• Chinaputtudara waterfall, believed to originate from an idol, is found on the way to the hill.
• Pathways from Punyagiri hill lead to neighboring tribal villages.
• During Mahasivaratri festival, devotees gather for worship and vow fulfillment for three days.
• Legend has it that the Pandavas sought refuge in this forest during their exile.
• The Shivalingam in Punyagiri temple is cleansed by water from a nearby perennial spring.
• After cremation, ashes are scattered in the spring, and 'castikalu' pooja is performed to console the departed soul.

Saripalli Ibbilingeswara Swamy Temple

• The Saripalli Ibbilingeswara Swamy Temple is located in Saripalli Village, 7 KM away from Vizianagaram towards the North East direction.
• This ancient temple showcases architectural influences from the Kalinga period and is situated on the banks of the Champavati river.
• Constructed without any bonding medium, the temple's stones are meticulously chiselled to fit together perfectly, leading locals to believe it was constructed by the Gods.
• Dedicated to Lord Shiva, the temple is believed to have been built around the year 1000 AD.

Bobbili Venu Gopalaswamy Temple

• The Bobbili Venu Gopalaswamy Temple has a rich history deeply intertwined with the House of Bobbili's religious traditions.
• Initially established during the founding of Bobbili, the present temple was rebuilt by Chinna Ranga Rao following a significant war.
• The temple, dedicated to the family deity Venugopala Swamy, is highly revered and is located near the royal residence.
• The Gopuram, constructed by Swetha Chalapati Ranga Rao in 1851, is a prominent feature of the temple complex, standing taller than the main temple.
• During festive occasions, the temple's deities are adorned with valuable jewelry, including gold and precious stones.
• The Vasant Mandapam, situated in a serene lake, is where the idol of Lord Venugopala Swamy is brought annually to celebrate the onset of spring.
• Legend has it that Lord Venugopala Swamy spends a day of solitude with his wife at the Vasant Mandapam during this annual celebration.
• Mandapams constructed by Maharaja Krishnadas Ranga Rao in 1825 play a significant role in the temple's rituals and festivities.