Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Simhachalam – Complete Guide, History, Timings & Darshan

Address: Sri Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamivari Temple, Simhachalam Rd, Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530028.

Recommended Duration: 2 Hours

Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Simhachalam is a famous Hindu temple located on Simhachalam Hill near Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, worshipped here as Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy, and is known for its unique tradition of covering the deity with sandalwood paste throughout the year.

Simhachalam Temple is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in South India, attracting lakhs of devotees every year for darshan, Chandana Yatra, and spiritual blessings.

About Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Simhachalam

• Temple Name: Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple
• Popular Name: Simhachalam Temple
• Location: Simhachalam Hill, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
• Google Map: Click Here to check the distance of the Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Simhachalam from your location
• Main Deity: Lord Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy
• Temple Type: Vaishnavite Temple
• Hill Height: Around 300 meters above sea level

The temple is also known as Simhadri, meaning Lion Hill. It is one of the important Narasimha Kshetras in India.

Why Simhachalam Temple is Unique

The Simhachalam Temple is very special because:

• The deity is always covered with sandalwood paste (Chandana Lepanam) throughout the year
• Devotees can see the original form of the Lord only once a year
• Lord Narasimha is worshipped here as Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha, a rare and powerful form

This tradition symbolizes that the Lord controls His fierce energy for the welfare of devotees.

History of Simhachalam Temple

The history of the Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Simhachalam dates back to many centuries.

According to ancient scriptures and legends:

• The temple finds mention in the Puranas and Vaishnava texts
• It was patronized by Eastern Ganga dynasty kings
• The present structure was largely developed during the 13th century
• Several rulers including Gajapati kings and Vijayanagara emperors contributed to the temple

Inscriptions found in the temple confirm its great historical and religious importance.

Legend of Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy

As per legend:

• Lord Vishnu appeared as Narasimha to protect Prahlada
• After destroying Hiranyakashipu, His energy became extremely fierce
• To calm Him, the Lord manifested in the Varaha form with Goddess Lakshmi, creating Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy
• The Lord chose Simhachalam hill as His divine abode

This makes Simhachalam a place of immense spiritual power.

Architecture of Simhachalam Temple

The Simhachalam Temple architecture is a beautiful blend of:

• Kalinga style
• Dravidian style

Architectural Highlights:

• Intricately carved stone pillars
• Beautiful sculptures of gods, animals, and floral designs
• A majestic Mukha Mandapam
• Strong stone walls reflecting ancient craftsmanship

The temple structure reflects the rich heritage of South Indian temple architecture.

Chandana Yatra – The Most Important Festival

The most famous festival of Simhachalam Temple is Chandana Yatra.

About Chandana Yatra:

• Celebrated once a year (usually in April or May)
• Sandalwood paste is removed from the deity
• Devotees can see the original idol of Lord Narasimha
• Lakhs of devotees visit during this time

This is the only day when the Lord is seen without sandalwood covering.

Simhachalam Temple Darshan Timings

Daily Temple Timings:

• Opening Time: 7:00 AM
• Closing Time: 7:00 PM

Day	Timing
Monday	7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Tuesday	7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Wednesday	7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Thursday	7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Friday	7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Saturday	7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday	7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Important Pujas:

• Suprabhata Seva
• Nitya Archana
• Kalyanotsavam
• Special Abhishekam (on festival days)

Timings may vary during festivals and special occasions.

Simhachalam Temple Entry Fee & Darshan Tickets

• General Darshan: Free
• Special Darshan: Available during peak days
• Seva Tickets: Available at temple counters

Darshan Type	Details for Devotees	Ticket Cost	Entry Allowed
Athi Sigra Darshanam	Fast track entry for quick darshan	₹100	1 devotee
Special Darshanam	Priority access with shorter waiting	₹50	1 devotee
Sarva Darshan (General)	Normal queue darshan	Free	1 devotee

Devotees are advised to check official temple announcements before visiting.

How to Reach Simhachalam Temple

By Air

• Nearest Airport: Visakhapatnam Airport (VIZ)
• Distance: Around 20 km

By Train

• Nearest Railway Station: Visakhapatnam Junction
• Well connected to major Indian cities

By Road

• Buses and taxis available from Vizag city
• APSRTC buses run frequently to Simhachalam

Best Time to Visit Simhachalam Temple

• Best Months: October to March
• Festival Time: Chandana Yatra (April–May)
• Ideal Time of Day: Early morning or evening

Avoid peak afternoon hours during summer.

Nearby Places to Visit

When visiting Simhachalam Temple, you can also explore:

• Kailasagiri Hill Park
• RK Beach
• Yarada Beach
• Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex
• Visakha Museum

Rules & Dress Code

• Wear traditional and modest clothing
• Mobile phones may not be allowed inside
• Follow temple guidelines and security rules

Spiritual Importance of Simhachalam Temple

Devotees believe that visiting the Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Simhachalam:

• Removes fear and negative energy
• Brings peace and prosperity
• Protects devotees from evil forces
• Fulfills sincere wishes

This temple is considered a Divya Kshetram by Vaishnavas.

Photos

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Which God is worshipped in Simhachalam Temple?

Lord Vishnu is worshipped here in the form of Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy.

2. Why is sandalwood applied to Simhachalam deity?

Sandalwood paste is applied to control the fierce energy of Lord Narasimha and keep Him calm.

3. How old is Simhachalam Temple?

The temple is over 1,000 years old, with major construction done in the 13th century.

4. Is Simhachalam Temple a Divya Kshetram?

Yes, Simhachalam is considered a Divya Kshetram by Vaishnavites.

5. Why is Simhachalam Temple famous?

Simhachalam Temple is famous for the rare form of Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy and the unique sandalwood covering tradition.

6. How many times is the sandalwood removed?

Only once a year during Chandana Yatra.

7. Is photography allowed inside the temple?

Photography is generally not allowed inside the sanctum.

8. Is Simhachalam Temple suitable for senior citizens?

Yes, road access is available, but the hill terrain may require assistance.

The Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Simhachalam is a perfect blend of devotion, history, architecture, and divine energy. Whether you are a spiritual seeker or a cultural explorer, Simhachalam Temple offers a deeply enriching experience.

A visit to this sacred hill temple brings peace to the mind and strength to the soul.