Simhachalam Temple, officially Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, stands on Simhachalam Hill in Visakhapatnam. The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu as Sri Narasimha Swami; its hilltop setting and distinctive sandal-paste tradition make it a meaningful stop on a visit to the city.
- Location: Simhachalam Hill, Visakhapatnam
- Darshan: The published schedule has several daily darshan windows and breaks.
- Getting there: APSRTC buses serve Visakhapatnam; private buses and personal vehicles can take you onward to Simhachalam.
- From Hotel The Supreme: The temple is about 5.7 miles from Hotel The Supreme.
The temple and its hill setting
Simhachalam Temple sits on a hilltop 244 metres high, above the surrounding city. APSRTC describes the temple as dating to the 11th century, while the Visakhapatnam District website identifies its principal deity as Lord Vishnu in the form of Sri Narasimha Swami.
A defining feature of worship here is the sandal paste covering the deity’s image. It is ceremonially removed during the annual Chandanotsavam, also known as Chandana Yatra; the festival takes place in March and April, and devotees then see the deity’s original appearance. The temple’s Natya Mandapam is on its north side, where Kalyanotsavam is performed.
What are the Simhachalam Temple timings for darshan?
The published darshan schedule has morning, afternoon and evening windows, with breaks during the day. A secondary guide reproducing the Endowments Department schedule gives these timings:
Opening hours
- Monday to Saturday: open 24 hours
- Sunday: closed
Last checked November 2026. Hours can change on holidays and for special events.
- Suprabhata Seva: 04:00–04:30; Aaradhana: 04:30–05:30; Aaradhana Seva: 05:30–06:30.
- All Darshanams: 06:30–11:30, 12:15–14:30, 15:30–19:00 and 20:30–21:00.
- Rajabhogam break: 11:30–12:15; Pavalimpu break: 14:30–15:30; Aaradhana Seva: 19:00–20:30.
Timings can change, so check the official Simhachalam Devasthanam site before you go. If darshan is your priority, use the schedule to plan your arrival and allow for the listed breaks rather than assuming access continues without interruption.
What should you know about dress and temple rules?
Temple guidelines restrict some clothing and items, and visitors are expected to follow the security process. Men wearing half pants and women wearing nighties are not allowed inside for darshan. Bags are also prohibited inside, and you must cooperate with bag checks and security checks.
Mobile-phone use on temple premises is prohibited, as are eatables inside the temple, smoking, spitting, alcohol and other intoxicants. Follow the queue system and park only in allotted slots. The guidelines also caution visitors against approaching touts for quick darshan or accommodation.
How do you get from Visakhapatnam to Simhachalam Temple?
Simhachalam railway station is the nearest station, about 6.9 miles from the temple. If you are travelling through Visakhapatnam, APSRTC buses serve the city, and you can continue to Simhachalam by private bus or your own vehicle.
Choose your onward transport with the hilltop destination in mind, and allow time for the drive or bus journey as well as the temple visit. For more city planning, a one-day Visakhapatnam route can help you fit Simhachalam into a wider day in the area.
Allow time for darshan and the return journey
Plan your visit around the darshan windows, not just the time it takes to reach the hill. The schedule includes several breaks and separate service periods, so check the Devasthanam’s current guidance before choosing when to travel. Chandanotsavam draws particular interest each year, making the festival period a distinct time to consider when planning.
Before leaving, account for the return trip to Visakhapatnam and any onward connection. APSRTC identifies the hilltop temple as a pilgrim destination, especially during Chandanotsavam season; you can check its transport information alongside the Devasthanam’s visitor guidance.
FAQs
What is the main deity at Simhachalam Temple?
The principal deity is worshipped as Lord Vishnu in the form of Sri Narasimha Swami.
When is Chandanotsavam held?
Chandanotsavam, also called Chandana Yatra, is an annual festival held in March and April.
Can you take a bag or use a mobile phone inside?
Bags are not allowed inside the temple, and mobile-phone use on temple premises is prohibited. Visitors must cooperate with security checks.