Nestled atop the Simhachalam Hill Range in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple—popularly known as Simhachalam Temple—is a sacred shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu, worshipped here in his fierce yet benevolent form of Varaha Narasimha.
Standing at an altitude of 300 meters above sea level, this temple is one of the most iconic Vishnu temples in South India, renowned for its rich Kalinga-style architecture, historical importance, and spiritual significance.
Historical Significance of Simhachalam Temple
The present structure of Simhachalam Temple was built during the 13th century by the Eastern Ganga ruler Narasingha Deva I and was later consecrated by his son Bhanudeva I in 1268 CE. With a legacy rooted in Vaishnavism, this temple was historically revered alongside other major pilgrimage centers such as Jagannath Puri and Srikurmam.
Today, it is one of the 32 prominent Narasimha temples in Andhra Pradesh and the second-highest income-generating temple after Tirumala.
Simhachalam Temple Darshan Timings 2025
| Temple Timings | Hours |
|---|---|
| Temple Opening Time | 07:00 AM |
| Morning Darshan | 07:00 AM – 04:00 PM |
| Darshan Break | 04:00 PM – 06:00 PM |
| Evening Darshan | 06:00 PM – 09:00 PM |
| Temple Closing Time | 09:00 PM |
Temple Highlights
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Temple Name: Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Simhachalam
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Deities: Lord Varaha Narasimha (Vishnu) & Goddess Simhavalli Thayar (Lakshmi)
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Location: Simhachalam Hill, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
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Governing Body: Simhachalam Devasthanam Board (Govt of Andhra Pradesh)
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Architecture: Kalinga style
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Popular Festivals: Chandanotsava, Narasimha Jayanti, Kalyanotsavam, Dola Utsavam, Navaratrotsava
Online Darshan Booking Procedure – Step-by-Step
The Andhra Pradesh Government provides a convenient online booking facility through its temple portal. Follow these steps to book your darshan at Simhachalam Temple:
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Visit the official site: https://www.aptemples.ap.gov.in
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Click on ‘Sign Up’ and register as a Devotee using your mobile number.
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After signing in, go to the ‘Online Booking’ section.
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Choose Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple, Simhachalam from the list.
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Select the type of darshan, preferred date, and time slot.
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Enter pilgrim details such as name, age, gender, and ID proof.
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For group bookings, adjust the number of persons and fill in additional details.
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Proceed to Confirm Booking and pay the applicable charges.
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A confirmation message will be sent via SMS and Email.
Entry Ticket Price for Darshan
| Darshan Category | Description | Ticket Price | Persons Allowed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Athi Segra Darshanam | Quick Access Darshan | ₹100.00 | One |
| General Darshanam | Regular Darshan | ₹10.00 | One |
| Special Darshanam | Priority Darshan | ₹50.00 | One |
Available Seva Offerings at Simhachalam Temple
| Seva Name | Description | Ticket Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|
| Ashtotaram | 108 Names Archana | ₹10.00 |
| Kunkumarchana | Worship with Kumkum | ₹51.00 |
| Sahasranamarchana | 1000 Names Archana | ₹101.00 |
| Auto/Tractor Pooja | Vehicle Blessing | ₹50.00 |
| Bus/Lorry Pooja | Commercial Vehicle Pooja | ₹150.00 |
| Mini Bus/Mini Lorry/Car Pooja | Light Vehicle Pooja | ₹100.00 |
| Two-Wheeler Vahana Pooja | Bike/Scooter Blessing | ₹30.00 |
| Vivaha Katnam | Wedding-related Ritual | ₹500.00 |
| Sri Ammavari Coins (50/40) | Coin Purchase Offering | ₹10.00 |
Simhachalam Temple Contact Details
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Address: Simhachalam Rd, Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh – 530028
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Booking Portal: https://www.aptemples.ap.gov.in
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Main Contact Number: 063038 00736
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Helpline Numbers: 0891-2979666, 9573553139
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best time to visit Simhachalam Temple?
The temple is open year-round, but special occasions like Chandanotsavam and Narasimha Jayanti draw larger crowds and spiritual significance.
Q: Is there a dress code for visiting Simhachalam Temple?
Yes, modest traditional attire is recommended. Shorts, sleeveless tops, and western wear should be avoided.
Q: How do I book darshan tickets online?
Visit https://www.aptemples.ap.gov.in, sign up, and follow the booking steps listed in this article.
Q: Is free darshan available?
Yes, free darshan is available, but it may involve a nominal donation. For quicker access, opt for special or VIP darshan tickets.
Q: Can I perform pooja for my vehicle at the temple?
Yes, the temple offers various Vahana Pooja options for cars, bikes, buses, and commercial vehicles.