Introduction
The Sri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, perched atop the Sampathgiri Hills in Polur, Tiruvannamalai district, Tamil Nadu, is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Narasimha Swamy, worshipped here in his Swayambhu (self‑manifested) form. With its rich legends, sacred streams, and 840 steps leading to the hilltop, this temple is one of the 108 Abimana Kshetrams of Lord Vishnu.
Deities & Shrines
- Presiding Deity:
Lord Narasimha Swamy (Swayambhu).
- Consort:
Goddess Kanagavalli Thayar.
- Anjaneyar Shrine: Located at the foot of the hill, blessing devotees before their climb.
Sacred Streams
- Brahma Theertham
– At the top of the hill.
- Pulasthiyar Theertham
– At the bottom of the hill.
Both streams are considered holy and add to the temple’s spiritual aura.
Legends
- Two great rishis performed penance
here. Lord Narasimha, pleased, offered them a mango. A dispute arose, and Pulasthriya
Rishi cut Kolasthriya Rishi’s hands. Despite this, Kolasthriya
continued his worship for 48 days (one Mandalam).
- Lord Narasimha appeared as Swayambhu,
restored the rishi’s hands, and instructed him to install the Utsava
Murthi at the foot of the hill.
- The hill’s name, Sampathgiri, means “Mountain of Wealth” in Sanskrit, symbolizing divine blessings.
Architecture &
Features
- The temple resembles traditional
Vishnu shrines with a serene hilltop setting.
- 840 steps
lead devotees to the sanctum, making the climb a spiritual journey.
- The temple’s natural surroundings enhance the pilgrimage experience.
Festivals & Rituals
- Daily pujas and special rituals are
performed with devotion.
- Annual celebrations attract devotees
from across Tamil Nadu.
- Pilgrims often combine their visit with nearby temples in Tiruvannamalai district.
Temple Timings
- Morning to Evening: 4:30 AM – 8:30 PM
Why Visit
- To seek blessings from Swayambhu
Narasimha Swamy.
- To experience the sacred climb of
840 steps.
- To bathe in or witness the holy
streams Brahma Theertham and Pulasthiyar Theertham.
- To connect with the legend of the
rishis and divine grace of Narasimha.
- To enjoy the serene and spiritual atmosphere of Sampathgiri Hills.
Uniqueness
- Swayambhu Narasimha
– rare self‑manifested form of the deity.
- Sacred streams
at both hilltop and foothill.
- Legend of Kolasthriya Rishi
– symbolizing perseverance and divine grace.
- 840 steps climb
– a spiritual test of devotion.
- Abimana Kshetram status
– one of the 108 revered Vishnu shrines.
Getting Here
- From Tiruvannamalai:
35 km (approx. 1 hour by road).
- From Polur town:
5 km.
- Nearest Railway Station:
Tiruvannamalai (35 km).
- Nearest Airport:
Chennai International Airport (160 km).
Tips for Devotees
- Start your climb early morning for a
peaceful darshan.
- Carry water and light offerings for
puja.
- Visit the Anjaneyar shrine at
the foot of the hill before ascending.
- Respect temple customs and dress
modestly.
- Combine your visit with Tiruvannamalai
Arunachaleswarar Temple for a complete spiritual circuit.
Conclusion
The Sri Lakshmi
Narasimha Swamy Temple at Sampathgiri Hills, Polur, is a sacred destination
blending legend, devotion, and natural beauty. With its eternal streams,
840 steps, and the rare Swayambhu Narasimha, it stands as one of Tamil Nadu’s
most spiritually significant Vishnu temples and a must‑visit for devotees
seeking divine grace.