Deity
Varaha Narasimha (Vishnu)
Main deity
श्री वराह नरसिंह स्वामी मंदिर
Simhachalam Temple
Simhachalam Temple is a renowned Vishnu shrine dedicated to Varaha Narasimha at Simhachalam near Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The record notes its Kalinga-Dravidian architectural character and 11th-century era association under the Eastern Ganga dynasty, with approximate daily timings from 04:00 to 21:00.
Simhachalam Temple
Simhachalam Temple
Simhachalam Temple
Simhachalam Temple
Simhachalam Temple
Temple Summary
Quick Facts
Pilgrimage Status
Famous Vishnu pilgrimage temple
Significance
Architecture
Kalinga-Dravidian
Style
Location
Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
City/District/State
Temple Profile
History and Significance
History
- Founded
- 1268
- Founder
- King Langula Narasimha Deva I (Eastern Ganga Dynasty)
- The central shrine of Simhachalam Temple was rebuilt in solid stone in 1268 CE by Eastern Ganga King Langula Narasimha Deva I. Inscriptions dating back to 1087 CE record royal gifts from Chola and Chalukya rulers. The structure incorporates architectural elements from both Kalinga and Chola styles.
Significance
- The temple enshrines Lord Varaha Narasimha, a unique composite avatar of Vishnu whose idol remains continuously covered in a thick coat of sandalwood paste. The idol's true form is revealed only once a year during the holy Chandanotsavam festival. It stands as an influential seat of Vaishnavism and Kalinga stone craftsmanship.
Temple Pilgrimage Summary
Pilgrim Guide
Before You Visit
Start early
Opening time is listed as 04:00 (approx.); early arrival can help with crowd management.
Keep time for the approach
Simhachalam is listed as the locality; allow extra time for reaching the temple area from Visakhapatnam side.
Verify daily schedule
Timings are marked approximate; confirm darshan hours at the temple notice boards.
Dress and conduct
Follow temple decorum and any posted instructions for entry and darshan.
Plan return before closing
Closing is listed as 21:00 (approx.); keep buffer time for queues and exit.
Temple Timings
Darshan Schedule
Opening timings
06:00 AM - 09:00 PM
Festivals
Temple Calendar Highlights
Dec–Jan • Major observance
Vaikuntha Ekadashi
A key Vishnu festival with expanded darshan participation.
Aug–Sep • Festival day
Janmashtami
Krishna devotion includes special puja and cultural observances.
Mar–Apr • Festival day
Rama Navami
Scriptural recitation and ceremonial worship mark this observance.
Temple Knowledge
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Community Notes
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Suggested pilgrim note
Weekday mornings usually have shorter darshan queues than weekends.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Carry a small cloth bag for footwear token and prasad containers.
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Gyaandweep Guide
Suggested pilgrim note
Aarti timings can shift on festival days, so check local notice boards.
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ज्ञ
श्री वराह नरसिंह स्वामी मंदिर
Simhachalam Temple
Additional Resources
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Temple Videos
Titles and links are sourced from temple JSON profile data.
Simhachalam Temple | Varaha Narasimha Swamy Darshan & History (11th Century)
Temple Chronicles• 11:18
Watch on YouTubeSimhachalam Temple Visakhapatnam | Kalinga-Dravidian Architecture Tour
Heritage Walks• 9:47
Watch on YouTubeSimhachalam Temple | Timings, How to Reach, Pilgrim Tips
Pilgrim Trails• 7:55
Watch on YouTube