Simhachalam Temple Kalyanotsavam 2026 Dates & Rituals, Visakhapatnam

 

Simhachalam Temple Kalyanotsavam 2026: A Divine Celebration

The famous Simhachalam Temple, dedicated to Lord Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy, stands majestically atop Simhagiri near Visakhapatnam. Known for its rich traditions and spiritual aura, the temple hosts the annual Kalyanotsavam (celestial wedding festival) with unmatched grandeur. In 2026, the celebrations will take place from March 28 to April 3, drawing thousands of devotees to witness rituals, vahana sevas, and cultural programs.

Festival Schedule 2026

March 28 (Night)

• Ankurarpana – Ritual sowing ceremony marking the auspicious beginning.

March 29

• 3:00 PM – Kotnala Utsavam
• 4:00 PM – Aradhana
• 5:00 PM – Grama Bali Harana
• 5:30 PM – Dhwajarohanam (flag hoisting)
• 6:30 PM – Eduru Sannaha Utsavam
• 8:30 PM – Rathotsavam (chariot procession through Simhagiri streets)
• 10:30 PM – Kalyanotsavam (divine wedding of the Lord and Goddess)

March 30

• 5:00 PM – Shesha Vahana Seva

March 31

• 3:30 PM – Pandita Sabha (Scholars’ Assembly)
• 6:00 PM – Sarvajana Manoranjani Vahana Seva

April 1

• Evening – Surya Prabha Vahana Seva

April 2

• Morning – Chakra Snanam at Gangadhara
• Night – Dongala Dopidi Utsavam

April 3

• Morning – Vinodotsavam
• Night – Sri Pushpayagam (festival conclusion)

Cultural Programs

From March 30 to April 4, cultural programs will be organized both at the hilltop and foothill areas, offering devotees a blend of devotion and art.

Important Information for Devotees

• March 28 – April 4: Suprabhata Seva and morning/night Aradhana Sevas will be cancelled.
• March 28 – April 13: All Arjita Sevas will remain cancelled during the festival period.

Getting Here: Simhachalam Temple

• By Road:
  Simhachalam is about 16 km from Visakhapatnam city. APSRTC buses, autos, and taxis regularly ply from RTC Complex and other parts of Vizag to the hill shrine. The temple is accessible via the foothill road, with parking facilities available.
• By Rail:
  The nearest railway station is Visakhapatnam Railway Station, one of the busiest in Andhra Pradesh, well connected to major cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, and Delhi. From the station, taxis and buses are available to Simhachalam.
• By Air:
  The closest airport is Visakhapatnam International Airport (approx. 25 km). It has domestic and international flights, making it convenient for pilgrims traveling from afar.

Travel Tips

• Festival Dates: March 28 – April 3, 2026. Expect heavy crowds, especially on March 29 (Kalyanotsavam & Rathotsavam).
• Best Time to Arrive: Early mornings or evenings for darshan. Arrive well before the evening sevas to secure a good view of the processions.
• Accommodation: Vizag city offers a wide range of hotels, lodges, and guest houses.  Temple authorities also provide limited accommodation near the shrine. Book in advance during festival season.
• Food & Prasadam: Temple prasadam is available at counters. Local eateries in Vizag serve authentic Andhra meals.
• Dress Code: Traditional attire is recommended—men in dhoti/pancha, women in saree/salwar.
• Special Note: During the festival, Suprabhata Seva and Arjita Sevas remain cancelled, so plan your visit accordingly.
• Local Attractions: Combine your pilgrimage with visits to RK Beach, Kailasagiri, Dolphin’s Nose, and Araku Valley, making it a spiritual and scenic trip.