Mantralayam or Mantralalya in Kannada is known for the Sri Raghavendra Swamy Mutt that houses the Brindavana(tomb) of the legendary 17th-century saint Guru Raghavendra.
Mantralyam is a place that can be easily be traversed by foot. The gateway to the Mutt, Bus stand, office for booking accommodation, Tungabhadra River all lie in close proximity to each other. Most of the hotels are located on Mantralayam Road. Generally, a day`s visit is enough to see all these attractions. However, if you want to do Seva or undertake any particular vow then perhaps more than one day is needed.
The following are the places to be seen at Mantralayam.
Raghavendra Swamy Mutt complex: This prime attraction of Mantralyam. Spread over a large area it houses the Brindavana of Raghavendra Swamy the compassionate Madhava saint.
Raghavendra Swamy Brindavana: The Brindavana of Raghavendra Swamy made of black stone is 2metre in height and 1.2 m in width.
Manchalmma Temple: Situated on the left corner of the Mutt complex, Goddess Manchalamma is the presiding deity of the village
Brindavana of Vadeendratirtha: The Brindavana of Vadeendratirtha was actually meant for Raghavendra Teertharu. This is situated on the left side of the sanctum near the exit.
Sri Moola Rama Devaru: Rajaru was an ardent devotee Of Moola Rama and performed his worship. Today this resplendent idol with a rich history is located just behind the sanctum in a hall.
Tungabhadra River: The enchanting Tungabhadra River is another attraction of the place. A mud pathway leads to the riverfront. It`s a treat to watch the Tungabhadra during the months of monsoon
Rathas (Chariots): The golden, silver and wooden chariot is splendor to watch at the mutt. It is nothing less than a divine feeling to watch these chariots as it rolls down the temple`s prahara.
Shiva Lingam: Do not forget to pay obeisance to the huge Siva Linga in the middle of a Mantap. It stands on a stone platform amidst the Tungabhadra River.
Sri Venkateswara Temple: The temple of Sri Venkateswara or Lakshmivenkatesvara is located at the center of the Mantralaya complex. The black stone idol of Sri Venkateswara was believed to have been installed and worshipped by Sri Raghavendra himself. Timing of the temple are 6 am-12 pm & 4.30 am to 8 pm
Other Thirtha`s Brindavan: As you move towards the left of Sri Raghavendra`s Brindavan then at a short distance a door leads to the 4 samadhis of his successors. These Brindavan belong to Sri Sudharmeendra teertha, Sri Suvrateendra teertha, Sri Suyameendra teertha, and Sujayeendra teertha. Pilgrims should perform pradakshine of the four Brindavanas or Samadhis. Facing these Samadhis is an Asvatha tree. The Asvatha Tree lies on a raised platform surrounded by many Naga images. To the left of these Brindavanas stand Samee Vriksha, a large Boarding hall, a school along with some cowsheds.
Anjaneya Temple: Facing the Brindavana is the idol of Lord Anjaneya. It is believed that the idol was installed by Guru Rajaru himself and is carved out of the same stone used for the Brindavana.
Nearby Places & excursions
After you have completed your darshan it is now time to visit the nearby places of interest. There are a lot of beautiful places around Mantralayam which people generally tend to give a miss. These places have the potential to make your visit worth remembering. Here is a list of those places.
Panchmukhi Anjaneya: Located amidst sylvan surroundings just 5 km from Mantralaya this is a temple dedicated to Lord Anjaneya( Hanumana) Read More..
Bikshalaya: Bikshalaya is a place associated with Sri Appanachara, the great disciple of Raghavendra Swamy. The house where Guru and Shishya spent time together is preserved as it is. A must-visit for devotees of Raghavendra. Read More...
NavaBrindavana: Navabrindavan near Hampi is a place that is a must-visit for all the disciples of Sri Raghavendra Guru. It is famous for the Brindavanas (tombs) of nine very important Madhva saints.
Alampur: The Alampur town located on the banks of Tungabhadra River is also known for some very important temples. Alampur is around 3 hours journey from Mantralyam.
Adoni: Adoni is also another place that is closely associated with Rajaru. Visit Adoni also for its great fort and other attractions.
Srisailam: Srisailam just 270 km from Mantralayam is a sacred place for Hindus and is popularly known as ``Kailash of South``.
Mahanandi: Mahanandi around 185 km from Mantralyam is a place with great religious significance. The temple has the largest statue of Mahanandi and a unique Holy Tank. A must visit.
Madhavaram: It is from Madhavaram that the stones were brought for building the Brindavana of Sri Raghavendra Swamy. Sri Rama is said to have rested here during his Vanavasa. Another tourist attraction is an ancient gateway now in ruins. One can but not notice its similarity with the gateway of India in Mumbai.
Hampi: Once the main city of the mighty Vijayanagara kingdom but now in ruins, Hampi still regales the visitors with its splendor and charm. If you are a person who gets mesmerized by India`s rich History then visiting Hampi is really rewarding experience. It is better to stay for at least one or 2 days at Hampi to capture the full essence of this city that was plundered brutally.
Pillalamari: If you are a nature enthusiast then you must visit Pillalamari. Located in the Mahboobnagar district this place is around a few hour's drive from Mantralyam.
Kiomoi Must-Dos while you are in Mantralayam
After extensive research Kiomoi has zeroed on certain activities which are a must, when in Mantralyam.
Perform different types of Sewas: Raghavendra Swami fulfills the wishes of every devotee. Out of reverence for Guru Rajaru you can undertake different types of Sevas according to your capacity.
Be present during Raghavendra Aradhana: The annual utsavam of Raghavendra Aradhana takes place every Sravana( August). Devotees of Rayaru irrespective of caste, creed, and status make it a point to come to Mantralayam and be part of the celebrations lasting more than a week.
Visit nearby places: Mantralayam has many nearby places that are either associated directly with Raghavendra Swamy or other prominent Madhwa Saints. In our opinion you must visit these places to gain a better understanding of Dwaita philosophy as propagated by Madavacarya.
Meditate before the Brindavana: This is an absolute must activity when you are inside the Mutt premises. After queuing through winding railings you are led in front of the simple Brindavana of Rayaru. So come early morning and meditate upon the great Swamy.
Visit the Riverfront: SRS Mutt is situated on the banks of the Tungabhadra River. The river flows just behind the Mutt. During monsoon, the Tungabhadra River presents a beautiful sight. You can sit on the river bank contemplating or have a quick bath before going for the Darshan
