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Simhachalam
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Andhra Pradesh, Visakhapatnam -
January 28, 2026
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January 28, 2026 
Important Days and Dates
- Chandanotsavam (Akshaya Tritiya): The most important festival. This is the only day of the year when the sandalwood paste is removed, and devotees can see the Nija Rupa (actual form) of the deity.
- Kalyanotsavam: The celestial wedding of the Lord, usually celebrated around March/April (Palgunna Suddha Ekadasi).
- Narasimha Jayanti: Celebrating the appearance of Lord Narasimha.
- Giri Pradakshina: A massive 32km circumambulation of the hill by foot, typically occurring in the month of Ashadha.
How to Reach
From Delhi
- By Air: Take a direct flight from IGI Airport (DEL) to Visakhapatnam (VTZ). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus (approx. 45-minute drive).
- By Train: Several express trains like the AP Express or Swarna Jayanti connect Delhi to Visakhapatnam. The journey takes 26–30 hours.
From Ahmedabad
- By Air: There are connecting flights (usually via Hyderabad or Bangalore) from Ahmedabad (AMD) to Visakhapatnam (VTZ).
- By Train: The Adippur-Puri Express or other connecting trains via Vijayawada or Raipur are available. It is a long journey, often exceeding 30 hours.
About History of the Temple
The temple’s history is a blend of Puranic legends and recorded stone inscriptions.
Legend: It is believed that the temple was built at the site where Lord Vishnu, in his Narasimha avatar, protected his devotee Prahalada from his father, the demon-king Hiranyakashipu.
Architecture: The structure showcases a mix of Chola, Chalukya, and Kalinga architectural styles. There are over 500 inscriptions dating back to the 11th century, mentioning patrons like Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire.
| Priority | Pooja Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nitya Kalyanam |
A daily ritual performing the celestial wedding of the Lord and His consort. Highly popular for couples. |
| 2 | Sahasranama Archana | Chanting of the 1000 names of the Lord while offering flowers/tulsi. |
| 3 | Astottara Sata Namarchana | A shorter version of Archana involving the 108 names of the Lord. |
| 4 | Suprabhata Seva | The early morning ritual to wake the Lord, usually performed around 4:00 AM. |
| 5 | Abhishekam |
Ritual bathing of the deity (usually performed for the Utsava Murti as the main idol is in sandalwood). |
Attire (Dressing Guidelines)
The temple follows traditional South Indian customs.
Men: Traditional Dhoti (Vasti) or Pancha with an upper cloth (Angavastram) is highly recommended. Formal trousers and shirts are generally allowed for general darshan, but lungis, shorts, and caps are strictly prohibited.
Women:Sari or Half-sari is the traditional preference. Chudidars/Salwar Kameez with a dupatta (stole) are also accepted. Avoid sleeveless tops or short western wear.
Restrictions:Electronic gadgets (phones, cameras) and leather items (belts, wallets) are often restricted in the inner sanctum.
Official Websites
- Temple Trust / AP Endowments:
simhachalam.ap.gov.in
- Andhra Pradesh Tourism:
tourism.ap.gov.in
Description
Important Days and Dates
- Chandanotsavam (Akshaya Tritiya): The most important festival. This is the only day of the year when the sandalwood paste is removed, and devotees can see the Nija Rupa (actual form) of the deity.
- Kalyanotsavam: The celestial wedding of the Lord, usually celebrated around March/April (Palgunna Suddha Ekadasi).
- Narasimha Jayanti: Celebrating the appearance of Lord Narasimha.
- Giri Pradakshina: A massive 32km circumambulation of the hill by foot, typically occurring in the month of Ashadha.
How to Reach
From Delhi
- By Air: Take a direct flight from IGI Airport (DEL) to Visakhapatnam (VTZ). From the airport, you can take a taxi or bus (approx. 45-minute drive).
- By Train: Several express trains like the AP Express or Swarna Jayanti connect Delhi to Visakhapatnam. The journey takes 26–30 hours.
From Ahmedabad
- By Air: There are connecting flights (usually via Hyderabad or Bangalore) from Ahmedabad (AMD) to Visakhapatnam (VTZ).
- By Train: The Adippur-Puri Express or other connecting trains via Vijayawada or Raipur are available. It is a long journey, often exceeding 30 hours.
About History of the Temple
The temple’s history is a blend of Puranic legends and recorded stone inscriptions.
Legend: It is believed that the temple was built at the site where Lord Vishnu, in his Narasimha avatar, protected his devotee Prahalada from his father, the demon-king Hiranyakashipu.
Architecture: The structure showcases a mix of Chola, Chalukya, and Kalinga architectural styles. There are over 500 inscriptions dating back to the 11th century, mentioning patrons like Krishnadevaraya of the Vijayanagara Empire.
| Priority | Pooja Name | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nitya Kalyanam |
A daily ritual performing the celestial wedding of the Lord and His consort. Highly popular for couples. |
| 2 | Sahasranama Archana | Chanting of the 1000 names of the Lord while offering flowers/tulsi. |
| 3 | Astottara Sata Namarchana | A shorter version of Archana involving the 108 names of the Lord. |
| 4 | Suprabhata Seva | The early morning ritual to wake the Lord, usually performed around 4:00 AM. |
| 5 | Abhishekam |
Ritual bathing of the deity (usually performed for the Utsava Murti as the main idol is in sandalwood). |
Attire (Dressing Guidelines)
The temple follows traditional South Indian customs.
Men: Traditional Dhoti (Vasti) or Pancha with an upper cloth (Angavastram) is highly recommended. Formal trousers and shirts are generally allowed for general darshan, but lungis, shorts, and caps are strictly prohibited.
Women:Sari or Half-sari is the traditional preference. Chudidars/Salwar Kameez with a dupatta (stole) are also accepted. Avoid sleeveless tops or short western wear.
Restrictions:Electronic gadgets (phones, cameras) and leather items (belts, wallets) are often restricted in the inner sanctum.
Official Websites
- Temple Trust / AP Endowments:
simhachalam.ap.gov.in
- Andhra Pradesh Tourism:
tourism.ap.gov.in