Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swami Temple

Dedicated to Lord Vishnu and Goddess Lakshmi, this temple is an important spiritual destination, attracting devotees from across India. The temple is celebrated for its Kalinga architectural style and holds heritage status as an ASI-protected monument.

Built during the Chola period by the Eastern Ganga king Narasingha Deva I, it stands as a testament to the region’s rich cultural and religious history. The temple is perched atop the Simhachalam hill, offering a serene and picturesque setting for worship and meditation.

Devotees can participate in various poojas such as Nitya Kalyanam (9:30 AM – 10:30 AM), Swarnapushparchana (Thursday, 7:00 AM – 8:00 AM), Sahasra Deepalankarana Seva (Saturday, 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM), Sudarsana Narasimha Yagam (monthly during Swathi Nakshathram), Sahasranamarchana (5:00 PM – 5:45 PM), and the special Chandanotsavam during April/May on Akshaya Tritiya.

Poojas are conducted in Telugu and Sanskrit, catering to the spiritual needs of devotees. Darshan timings at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swami Temple are 7:00 AM - 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM - 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM - 7:00 PM, and 8:30 PM - 9:00 PM.

Pilgrims can choose from free darshan, Seeghra darshan (₹100 or ₹300), and VIP darshan (₹500), ensuring convenient access for all visitors. The temple observes a traditional dress code: men are advised to wear dhoti or trousers/shirt, while women should opt for sarees or traditional salwar kameez.

Major festivals celebrated here include Chandanotsavam (April or May, Vaisakha Pournami), Narasimha Jayanthi (April/May), Giri Pradakshina (July, Ashadha month), Vykunta Ekadasi (December/January), and Teppotsavam (Float Festival) in January/February.

The temple also provides prasadam such as pulihora (tamarind rice) and organizes free annadanam (meals) daily for devotees, with special offerings during Chandanotsavam.

Reaching the temple is convenient: Visakhapatnam International Airport is just 13 km away, and Simhachalam Railway Station is only 1 km from the foothills. APSRTC buses, taxis, and autos are readily available from various city points.

From the foothill, Devasthanam buses, taxis, autos, or steps lead to the temple. Ample parking is available at the top, with wheelchairs and a lift for senior citizens.

For accommodation, temple rooms (Sri Narasimha Sadhan) are available at the foothills, and numerous hotels can be found near NAD Junction, Pendurthi, and Visakhapatnam city center.

Nearby attractions include Kailasagiri, Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, Rushikonda Beach, INS Kursura Submarine Museum, and Shri Kanaka Maha Lakshmi Temple. For more details, visit the official website or contact the temple at +91 9398734612.