Simhachalam Temple
Simhachalam Temple, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, enshrines Varaha-Narasimha, a boar-headed, lion-bodied Vishnu, kept coated in sandalwood paste year-round.
Photos of Simhachalam Temple
- Presiding Deity
- Vishnu
- Established
- 11th century CE
- Architecture
- Kalinga–Dravidian hybrid
- Address
- Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam 530028
- Timings
- 07:00–16:00
History of Simhachalam Temple
Built by King Kulottunga Chola I and later expanded by the Eastern Gangas and Vijayanagara kings.
Festivals Celebrated at Simhachalam Temple
- Chandanotsavam
- Kalyanotsavam
- Narasimha Jayanti
How to Reach Simhachalam Temple
Simhachalam is 16 km north of Visakhapatnam city.
Frequently Asked Questions about Simhachalam Temple
Where is Simhachalam Temple located?
- Simhachalam Temple is located at Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam 530028, in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Who is the presiding deity at Simhachalam Temple?
- The presiding deity at Simhachalam Temple is Vishnu (also known as Narayana, Hari), worshipped in the Vaishnava tradition.
What are the timings of Simhachalam Temple?
- Simhachalam Temple is generally open 07:00–16:00. Timings can vary on festival days and special occasions — verify with the temple before your visit.
When was Simhachalam Temple built?
- Simhachalam Temple was established 11th century CE. Portions of the structure have been added and renovated by successive dynasties over the centuries.
What is the architectural style of Simhachalam Temple?
- Simhachalam Temple is built in the Kalinga–Dravidian hybrid style, characteristic of Vishnu shrines of this region.
Which festivals are celebrated at Simhachalam Temple?
- The principal festivals celebrated at Simhachalam Temple include Chandanotsavam, Kalyanotsavam, Narasimha Jayanti. These draw large crowds of pilgrims from across Andhra Pradesh and beyond.
How can I reach Simhachalam Temple?
- Simhachalam is 16 km north of Visakhapatnam city.
Why is Simhachalam Temple significant?
- Simhachalam Temple, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, enshrines Varaha-Narasimha, a boar-headed, lion-bodied Vishnu, kept coated in sandalwood paste year-round.
Is there an entry fee at Simhachalam Temple?
- Entry to the main shrine of Simhachalam Temple is generally free for darshan. Special sevas, abhishekams and priority queues may carry a nominal fee — check with the temple office on arrival.
What is the dress code at Simhachalam Temple?
- Simhachalam Temple follows the traditional dress code observed at Andhra Pradesh temples — modest attire covering shoulders and knees. Many shrines in the region also expect men to remove upper garments before entering the sanctum.