Ramanarayanam, also known as Srimadramayana Pranganam, is one of the most unique temple complexes in Andhra Pradesh. Located on Korukonda Road about 6 km from Vizianagaram town and 50 km from Visakhapatnam, this remarkable 15-acre complex was conceived by Late Sri Narayanam Narasimha Murthy, founder of the NCS Group, and built by the NCS Charitable Trust over more than a decade entirely without external donations. It has become one of the top tourist and pilgrimage destinations in the Uttarandhra region, attracting millions of visitors since its opening.
The most striking feature of Ramanarayanam is its unique bow and arrow shaped structure - the entire two-storey complex is designed in the form of Lord Rama's divine weapon, the Ranabana (bow and arrow). The arrow portion houses an air-conditioned gallery that guides visitors through a sequential narrative path from entrance to exit - walking through this gallery, you follow the entire story of the Ramayana depicted in 72 sculpted picture frames, 36 on each side of the semicircular arches. The bowstring pathways are lined with mega fountains and lush green lawns with palm trees, making the complex as beautiful as it is spiritual.
At the center of the complex stands the most iconic sight - a towering 60-foot statue of Lord Hanuman, positioned at the arrow's tip as the focal point of the entire complex. At the two ends of the bow are temples dedicated to Lord Vishnu on one side and Lord Rama on the other. The main sanctum sanctorum (Garbhagriha) houses beautiful white marble statues of Lord Rama, Sita Mata and Lord Lakshmana. Statues of Goddess Lakshmi and Goddess Saraswati stand at either end of the complex. Near the entrance gate is a Lord Vinayaka (Ganesha) temple.
The evening laser show at Ramanarayanam is what draws visitors from across Andhra Pradesh and beyond. Every evening a 3D laser and light show of the Hanuman Chalisa is projected on the 60-foot Hanuman statue, transforming the entire complex into a breathtaking spectacle of light, sound and devotion. As the sun sets, coloured lights illuminate the fountains, gardens and the entire bow-shaped structure. The Maha Harathi (ceremonial lamp offering) is performed at 7 PM. Laser shows run at 6:30 PM, 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM daily. Plan to arrive by 5:30 PM to find parking, buy tickets and explore the complex before the evening show begins - the experience after dark is completely different from the daytime visit.
Inside the air-conditioned gallery the entire story of the Ramayana is depicted through life-like sculpted frames covering the walls from entrance to exit. This Ramayana Darshanam section presents the epic in sequential order, making it both a spiritual and educational experience for visitors of all ages. The paintings and sculptures are executed with exquisite detail. Guided tours and educational programs for schoolchildren are also organized here, teaching core values from the Ramayana through interactive sessions. The complex also houses a Veda Pathashaala (Vedic school) run in collaboration with Tirupati Tirumala Devasthanam, a Goshala (cow shelter) and a library.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Korukonda Road, Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh - 535004 |
| Distance | 6 km from Vizianagaram town, 50 km from Visakhapatnam |
| Timings | 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM (all days) |
| Entry Fee (Morning) | Rs. 10 per head |
| Entry Fee (Evening) | Rs. 60 per head (includes laser show) |
| Laser Show Timings | 6:30 PM, 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM daily |
| Maha Harathi | 7:00 PM daily |
| Prasadam | Free daily food (Nityanadana Prasadam) for devotees |
| Suggested Visit Duration | 2 to 3 hours (longer if attending laser show) |
| Payment | Cash preferred - UPI may not be available at entry |
Note: Entry fees are approximate and subject to change. Please verify at the ticket counter.
Ramanarayanam is located on Korukonda Road, about 6 km from Vizianagaram town centre. From Vizianagaram Railway Station or Bus Stand, hire an auto rickshaw - expect to pay around Rs. 150–200 for a full auto. The drive from Visakhapatnam takes about one hour by road via NH 16. By train, Vizianagaram Railway Station (code: VZM) is on the main Howrah–Chennai line with frequent services from Visakhapatnam (about one hour). From the station an auto to the temple takes 15–20 minutes. The complex has a large parking area for cars and two-wheelers.