Simhachalam Temple Visakhapatnam – Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha, History, Festivals & Travel Guide

Location

Main Deities

Presiding Deity: Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy – a unique combined form of Lord Vishnu as Varaha (boar) and Narasimha (lion-man)
Consort: Simhavalli Thayar (Lakshmi Devi)

Subshrines

Temple Significance

Rare Deity Form: One of the few temples in India where Vishnu is worshipped in the Varaha Narasimha form.
Chandanotsavam: Annual festival where the deity’s sandalwood paste covering is removed, revealing the true form of Narasimha.
Legends: Believed to be the place where Lord Narasimha appeared to save Prahlada.
Nava Narasimha Temple: Considered one of the nine Narasimha temples in Andhra Pradesh.
Mystical Traditions: Rituals like Giri Pradakshina (circumambulation of the hill) and miraculous legends (e.g., copper hornets defending the temple) add to its aura.

History

Earliest References: The temple is mentioned in inscriptions from the Kalinga Empire (8th century CE).
Dynastic Patronage: It received support from the Eastern Ganga kings, Cholas, and Vijayanagara rulers, who expanded and renovated the complex.
Colonial Records: British surveyor Colin Mackenzie documented the temple’s architecture in 1815 through heritage sketches.
Continuity: The temple has remained a major Vaishnava pilgrimage site for centuries, with uninterrupted worship traditions.

Legends

Prahlada & Narasimha: According to tradition, Lord Narasimha appeared here to save Prahlada from Hiranyakashipu. The deity manifested in a combined form of Varaha (boar) and Narasimha (lion-man).
Chandanotsavam: The idol is usually covered in sandalwood paste throughout the year. On Akshaya Tritiya, the paste is removed during the Chandanotsavam festival, revealing the true form of Narasimha.
Name Origin: “Simhachalam” means “Lion Hill”, signifying the abode of Narasimha.
Sacred Hill: Pilgrims perform Giri Pradakshina (circumambulation of the hill), believed to grant blessings and remove obstacles.

Architecture

Style: A fusion of Kalinga, Chola, and Chalukya architectural traditions, showcasing South Indian temple grandeur.
Sanctum (Garbha Griha): Houses the deity Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha, usually covered in sandal paste.
Mandapas: The temple has intricately carved Kalyana Mandapam and Natya Mandapam, used for rituals and cultural performances.
Sculptures: Rich carvings of mythological scenes, floral motifs, and Vaishnava iconography adorn the pillars and walls.
Subshrines: Dedicated to Lakshmi Devi, Anjaneya, Rama-Sita-Lakshmana, Andal, and Varadaraja Swamy, reflecting the temple’s inclusive Vaishnava tradition.
Heritage Value: The temple’s architecture inspired historians and artists, with sketches preserved from the early 19th century.

Rituals

Unique Practice: The deity is covered in sandalwood paste throughout the year, symbolizing cooling of Narasimha’s fierce energy.

Major Festivals

Festival	Time	Significance
Chandanotsavam (Akshaya Tritiya)	April–May	Only day when sandal paste is removed, revealing the Nija Rupa Darshanam (true form) of Narasimha.
Narasimha Jayanti	Vaishakha Shukla Chaturdashi	Celebrates the appearance of Lord Narasimha to save Prahlada.
Vaikuntha Ekadashi	December–January	Special darshan through Vaikuntha Dwaram, believed to grant moksha.
Navratri & Dasara	September–October	Worship of Goddess Lakshmi and Saraswathi; cultural programs held.
Kalyanotsavam	Throughout the year	Ritual marriage of Narasimha and Lakshmi, performed for devotees’ prosperity.

Temple Hours

The Simhachalam Temple operates daily with the following schedule:

Early Morning Activities:

Morning Rituals:

Midday Rituals:

Afternoon and Evening Activities:

Late Night Rituals:

Beliefs & Significance

Rare Deity Form: Worship of Lord Vishnu as Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha, combining two avatars.
Protective Power: Devotees believe the Lord protects against evil, fear, and obstacles.
Educational Blessings: Students and seekers of knowledge pray here for wisdom and success.
Giri Pradakshina: Circumambulation of the Simhachalam hill is believed to cleanse sins and grant boons.
Healing Faith: Many devotees believe prayers here bring relief from chronic ailments and family troubles.

Getting Here

Tips

Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for peaceful darshan; avoid peak festival crowds unless you want the full experience.
Chandanotsavam: Lakhs of devotees attend; plan travel and accommodation well in advance.
Footwear: Leave shoes at designated counters; the hill path is clean but steep.
Giri Pradakshina: Circumambulating the hill (~30 km) is considered highly auspicious; devotees usually attempt this during special occasions.
Accommodation: Lodges and hotels available in Visakhapatnam; temple guest houses may be booked during festivals.
Weather: Vizag is humid; carry water and light cotton clothes.