metro india news  I amaravati

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced an ambitious plan to transform Vontimitta, a historic temple town in Kadapa district, into a major spiritual and cultural destination. Following the successful conduct of the annual Sri Sitarama Kalyanam at the Vontimitta temple, the Chief Minister held a detailed review meeting with senior officials, including TTD Chairman B.R. Naidu, TTD Executive Officer J. Syamala Rao, Kadapa District Collector S. Sridhar, and representatives from the Tourism Department and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).

During the review, the Chief Minister emphasized the need for a comprehensive master plan that would enhance spiritual tourism while preserving the sanctity and heritage of the Vontimitta temple. He noted that the number of devotees visiting the temple is steadily increasing, and called for immediate upgrades to infrastructure and amenities to accommodate the rising footfall. He directed officials to ensure that the surrounding environment reflects the temple’s spiritual significance, offering a peaceful and enriching experience for pilgrims.

As part of the broader vision, the Chief Minister proposed the development of a two- to three-day spiritual tourism circuit connecting key pilgrimage sites such as Tirupati, Kanipakam, Tallapaka, Gandikota (as a night halt destination), Vontimitta, and Sri Kalahasti. This initiative, he said, would serve not only religious travelers but also those interested in the cultural heritage of the region, giving a much-needed boost to local tourism and economic activity.

Another key aspect of the plan includes the beautification of the Vontimitta lake. The proposal involves creating boating facilities and installing a statue of Jambavantha at the lake’s center to enhance the devotional ambiance. The lake will be developed as a picturesque spot, blending natural beauty with spiritual symbolism.

To address the accommodation needs of pilgrims, CM Naidu directed the TTD and the Tourism Department to work in coordination with private donors and hospitality providers to upgrade lodging facilities in the area. He also stressed the importance of restoring and preserving the temple’s historic architecture, instructing that ASI support be utilized for all renovation works. Improving facilities around sacred sites such as Ramatheertham and Lakshmana Teertham was also identified as a priority.

In addition, the Chief Minister proposed a Sri Rama spiritual project on Pothanagiri Hill, envisioned as a space that highlights the values of the Ramayana and Sanatana Dharma. This project aims to educate visitors on Hindu traditions while providing a spiritually immersive environment.

To serve daily meals to pilgrims, the construction of an “Annadanam Bhavan” will be undertaken. CM Naidu stressed the importance of ensuring that every devotee receives prasadam as part of their temple experience, reaffirming the government’s commitment to inclusive service at pilgrimage centers.