Simhachalam in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, Simhachalam Temple is a sacred haven for devotees of Lord Vishnu in his fierce and compassionate avatar Sri Varaha Narasimha Swamy. This temple, steeped in centuries of spiritual significance, is one of the 18 renowned Narasimha Kshetras in India and attracts pilgrims and tourists alike for its unique deity form, splendid architecture, and powerful rituals. About the Temple
Simhachalam Temple is dedicated to Lord Varaha Narasimha, a composite incarnation combining the features of a boar and lion, signifying protection, power, and grace. According to legends, it is where the Lord appeared to protect his devotee Prahlada and destroy the demon Hiranyakashipu. Description
The temple showcases a stunning blend of Orissan and Dravidian architecture, featuring intricately carved pillars, stone walls, and soaring gopurams. A unique feature is that the deity remains covered in chandanam (sandalwood paste) year-round and is revealed only during the annual Chandanotsavam festival in April/May. Specialitys
Deity Form: Varaha + Narasimha (boar-faced lion-man).
Major Festival: Chandanotsavam – the only day the deity is uncovered.
Powerful Sevas: Kalyanotsavam, Abhishekam, Sahasranamarchana.
Mythological Legacy: One of India’s 18 Narasimha shrines. Location
Name: Simhachalam Temple (Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple)
Location: Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh – 530028, India
Coordinates: Latitude 17.7753° N, Longitude 83.2550° E
Timings & Sevas
Daily: Suprabhata, Abhishekam, Archana
Special: Kalyanotsavam, Chandanotsavam, Sahasranamarchana
Sevas can be booked at the temple counter or via official AP Endowments websites. Travel Facilities
Nearby Transport Hubs:
Simhachalam Railway Station – 5 km
Visakhapatnam Railway Station – 18 km
Visakhapatnam Airport – 22 km
Dwaraka RTC Bus Complex – Main intercity bus terminal Travel Options:
Bus: City buses 28, 28A, 28K frequently run to Simhachalam.
Train: Board trains to Simhachalam or Visakhapatnam stations.
Air: Fly to Visakhapatnam and take local cabs to the temple. Accommodation & Food
Temple Guesthouses – Affordable, basic amenities.
AP Tourism Hotels – Budget and mid-range options.
Luxury Hotels in Vizag – Novotel, Gateway Hotel, Green Park. Food:
Temple prasadam is served.
Nearby vegetarian restaurants and South Indian eateries are available. Nearby Attractions
Temples:
Sri Kanaka Mahalakshmi Temple
ISKCON Temple
Appikonda Temple Tourist Spots:
Kailasagiri Hill Park
RK Beach & Submarine Museum
Araku Valley & Borra Caves (around 130 km away) Suggested Itinerary (1 Day)
Shopping Near Simhachalam
Etikoppaka Wooden Toys
Kalamkari Textiles
Handloom Sarees (Uppada, Pochampally, Mangalagiri)
Andhra Pickles & Sweets
Shopping Areas: Jagadamba Junction, Kurupam Market, Beach Road stalls Best Time to Visit
October to March – Pleasant weather for darshan and sightseeing.
April/May – For Chandanotsavam and festival fervor. Nearby Cities
Visakhapatnam – 18 km
Vizianagaram – 50 km
Srikakulam – 110 km
Rajahmundry – 200 km Simhachalam Temple is not just a place of worship but a confluence of divine grace, architectural splendor, and cultural depth. Whether you're seeking blessings, exploring South India’s spiritual roots, or simply soaking in the serene hilltop atmosphere, a visit to Simhachalam promises to leave your heart full and your soul uplifted.Make sure to plan around the Chandanotsavam for the most spiritually charged experience and take time to enjoy the natural beauty and rich heritage of Visakhapatnam and its surroundings.
