Sri Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamy Vari Devasthanam
Sri Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamy Vari Devasthanam things to do, attractions, restaurants, events info and trip planning
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The Simhachalam Temple in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. This ancient temple is renowned for its blend of architectural beauty and religious significance. Here's a detailed overview: History and Significance: The Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, popularly known as Simhachalam Temple, is situated on the Simhachalam Hill, about 800 meters above sea level. The temple combines elements of both Chola and Chalukya architectural styles, making it a marvel of South Indian temple architecture. Simhachalam is one of the 32 Narasimha temples in Andhra Pradesh and is regarded as the second richest temple after Tirupati. It is believed that the temple was built in the 11th century and holds great religious significance for Hindus. The temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the half-lion, half-man avatar of Vishnu, who appeared to save his devotee Prahlada by slaying the demon Hiranyakashipu. The deity here is unique in that it is always covered with a thick layer of sandalwood paste, except for one day each year (Akshaya Tritiya), when the deity's original form is revealed. Timings: Temple Hours: The temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM and then again from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Morning Darshan: Starts at 6:30 AM with Suprabhatam (the morning ritual). Evening Aarti: The evening rituals begin around 7:00 PM. Special timings may apply during festivals like Narasimha Jayanti, Akshaya Tritiya, and Vaikunta Ekadasi, when the temple can get particularly crowded. How to Reach: Simhachalam Temple is located about 20 km from Visakhapatnam city center and can be reached easily via different modes of transportation. By Road: You can hire a taxi or an auto-rickshaw from Visakhapatnam to reach the temple. The temple is well connected by road and takes about 40 minutes from the city center. By Bus: APSRTC (Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) buses are available from various parts of Visakhapatnam to Simhachalam. You can get off at Simhachalam Bus Stop and take a short walk or a local auto-rickshaw to reach the temple. By Train: The nearest railway station is Visakhapatnam Railway Station (about 20 km away). You can take a taxi or a bus from the railway station to the temple. By Air: The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam International Airport, located around 18 km from the temple. From the airport, you can take a taxi to Simhachalam, which will take about 30-40 minutes. Things to Know for Visitors: Footwear: Like most Hindu temples, footwear is not allowed inside the temple. Prasad and Offerings: You can buy coconuts, flowers, and other offerings from vendors outside the temple. Best Time to Visit: The months of October to March are ideal for visiting, as the weather is more pleasant. The temple can be particularly busy during festival seasons. Special Occasions: The most important festival here is Akshaya Tritiya, during which the sandalwood covering is removed and devotees get to see the actual form of the deity.
Kumud RanjanKumud Ranjan
00
The Simhachalam Temple, perched atop a hill, is a must-visit spiritual destination in Visakhapatnam. It takes about 30 minutes to reach from the main city, and the drive is quite pleasant, thanks to the well-maintained roads that connect seamlessly to the main highway. The journey itself offers glimpses of the natural beauty surrounding the area, making the ascent to the temple a peaceful experience. As you approach the temple, the entry gate immediately catches your eye. The gate is adorned with intricate carvings, showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship that have gone into creating this sacred space. The blue and golden colors of the gate add a touch of grandeur, setting the tone for the spiritual experience ahead. However, one important thing to note is that mobile phones are not allowed inside the temple premises. Make sure to leave your phones at the designated cell point to avoid any inconvenience during your visit. The temple offers two options for darshan (viewing of the deity). The first option is the regular darshan line, which is free of charge. This line allows you to experience the temple’s ambiance, but it only takes you to a certain point, far from the main murti (idol). If you wish to get a closer look and be near the deity, the second option is recommended. For INR 300 per person, you can opt for the Ati Shighra (immediate) darshan. This route is much quicker and takes you directly to the feet of the Lord's statue, offering a more intimate and fulfilling spiritual experience. The separate line for this darshan ensures a smoother and quicker journey to the inner sanctum. Inside the temple, the murti of the Lord is a sight to behold, even though it is covered and surrounded by garlands of fresh flowers. The atmosphere inside is filled with devotion, and the sense of peace is palpable. If you choose the INR 300 darshan, you are also allowed to do a parikrama (circumambulation) of the murti, which adds to the spiritual significance of the visit. Once you exit the temple, don't miss out on the delicious lemon rice offered as prasadam (blessed food). The prasadam is served in small bowls, and the flavor is both refreshing and satisfying, making for a perfect end to your visit. Additionally, the temple’s location on top of the hill provides stunning panoramic views of Visakhapatnam city. The scenic beauty of the city, as seen from the temple, is truly breathtaking. You can capture the magnificent view of the cityscape and the surrounding greenery, adding another layer of tranquility to your visit. Overall, Simhachalam Temple is not just a place of worship but also a haven of peace and beauty. The well-maintained temple premises, the serene environment, and the awe-inspiring views of Visakhapatnam make it a must-visit destination for both spiritual seekers and tourists alike.
Ronit GaikwadRonit Gaikwad
00
Simhachalam Temple, situated in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh is a famous and one of the most ancient temples in South India. The temple having VARAHA LAKSMI NARASIMHA SWAMY varu as God & Blessings the people from ages and to be in Future also. Located in most beautiful and scenic SIMHAGIRI / Kailasa Hill in the sub sequential Eastern Ghats, the temporary situated approximately 3000 feet about the sea level at a distance of 20 km North to Visakhapatnam City. Due to the soil nature, rainfall in the climatic conditions influenced by the sea level, the growth of flora and fauna is abundant on the hill ranges including medicinal values trees and Plants. This temple architecture is a mixed style of Kalinga, chalukya and chola. This temple is most popular and one of the most busiest temple cities in Andhra Pradesh due to its climatic conditions and the belief devotees have. Varaha Laksmi Narasimha Swamy will be seen in his Original Avatar once in a year on the Day of Akshaya Triteeya and in remaining days, the original idol will be covered by sandalwood Cream to reduce the heat coming from the idol. The Swami vari Prasadam contains Laddu and Pulihora which is one of the most finest prasadam ever made in Andhra Pradesh history and it will takes place in top 5 most delicious prasadam of Andhra Pradesh. Simhachalam is very near to Visakhapatnam City and we can reach simhachalam by road and the transport facility is also very very good with plenty of public transport services and well equipped roads. The journey from bottom to the top of the hill will be one of the most positive and breathtaking rides and it'll leave us Spellbound in Winter Season. If you're on a Visit to Vizag, please do visit simhachalam temple and enjoy the views, take blessings from Narasimha Swamy and enjoy the Divinity. Instagram/ @mr.avv
Aditya Vishnu Vardhan InugantiAditya Vishnu Vardhan Inuganti
20
The Shri Varahalakahmi Narashimha Swamy temple is situated on a hill top. Very scenic view and exceptionally beautiful. I visited in the peak summer and it was quite hot. Phones/camera/bags are not allowed inside. There are lockers where you can keep your belongings for 10rs or so. Since I traveled in a private car, I kept my belongings inside the car. There are 3 types of darshan available. Normal darshan where you stand in the queue and get it, a semi-vip darshan which costs you around 100rs and a VIP darshan for 300rs. You can also buy Prasadam Ladoos and Chivda after the darshan. Ladoo Prasadam is scrumptious. Make sure you get them after your darshan. Please note that Darshan/Prasadam and the bag/phone counters are Cash payment only. Online payment is not available. I had a flight to catch and was really short on time. And so I would highly recommend the 300rs Dharshan. There's no queue and it's the quickest. You can also perform the pradakshina and take your time and get a good darshan. I was carrying no cash. But this very sweet gentleman (Mr. Srinu) selling garlands helped me big time. I purchased tulsi garlands from him and paid him via Gpay. When I told him I was short on cash to book the VIP darshan tickets, he very sweetly gave me cash and asked me to transfer him the money on Gpay. Very grateful to him. Had it not been for him I would've waited in the normal queue and would have probably missed my flight (Since I visited early morning there was a lot of rush for the normal queue) Speaking about the Darshan and the experience inside the temple. One word - Divine! It was just divine and peaceful and very healing. I really needed it.
Sonnal KkaduSonnal Kkadu
50
A splendid spiritual place of Lord Shri Narasimha the incarnation of Lord Vishnu on a hill / mountain of Simhachalum in Vishakhapatnam or Vizag. This is said to be the second wealthiest temple after Tirumala temple in AP. The main vigraha of Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha is covered with sandalwood paste throughout the year and it's visible in the original form only on Akshaya Tritiya day once a year. Hence all year long the vigraha resembles a linga due to the covering of the chandan paste. The paste is changed 4 times a year on Akshaya Tritiya, and full moon days of Vishaka, Jeshtha and Ashada months Drive to this enchanting place is by curvy roads on the hilltop. It's a serene drive and picturesque. The temple instructs devotees and visitors to follow traditional dressing, deposit mobiles and cameras in the cloak room and then enter the premises. Once inside it's just out of the world experience! Wait in the queue depends on day and time. Tickets from free to Rs 100 & 300 available for fast darshan. They are all worth it. We had an extraordinary experience when we visited late in the evening of a Friday at 8.30pm. wait time was 1hour but we got the 'Ekanth seva' all by the grace of the Lord and one of the chief priests who kindly allowed us to stay back late and take the panchamruta and a loooooong darshan!! There is a long light stand with a all bell which rings with wind it's a beautiful feeling to get the bell ring when it's totally silent and peaceful there amidst the crowd. Don't miss the Venkataraman idol and Garuda inside the temple while in the darshan queue. Jai Shri Govinda. A must visit for devotees of Lord Vishnu
Dr Radhika Mayur SDr Radhika Mayur S
00
Aum Namo Varahalakshmi Narasimha Deva!!! This epitome of eternity is as old as life on this earth. Your heart, soul & mind will be rejuvenated after his Darshan. One can reach the hilltop either by foot by climbing 1000 steps or by a motored vehicle. The spirituality is in the air & we will indulge in peace & serene as soon as we reach the epitome. The temple is beautifully maintained & lot of facilities were provided for the pilgrims like free baths, toilets & choultries. They have paid facilities for luggage, shoes & mobile phones all these facilities are available near the temple darshan queue. One can offer their hair to the lord & have a safe shave of your head which is a paid service. All queues lead to the inner sanctum just chant yourself Aum Namo Varahalakshmi Narasimha Deva! ! You will mesmerise by seeing the old Kalinga & Dravidian architecture, a infinite of rock-cut animals, birds & deities. Once we enter inside the maha dwaram we will be indulged in Vaikuntam & pray SARVEJANA SUKHINO BHAVANTHU, please view the architecture of the temple, visit the sub-temples inside, sit in calm for sometime & taste the divine prasad & knock back to the world. Plan your visits properly during few auspicious days the temple will be closed early & few darshans will be cancelled. From Wednesday Evening to Thursday Evening Swamy Inner Sanctum will be given darshan as Narasimha Swamy. The Kavach of Narasimha Swamy will be temporarily fixed on Swamy aakaram. Happy Darshan!!!! Jai Varahalakshmi Narasimha Deva!!!
Arjun KandulaArjun Kandula
50
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Address
Q782+G6V, Simhachalam Rd, Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 530028, India
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Phone
+91 63038 00736
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Description
Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha temple, Simhachalam, is a Hindu temple situated on the Simhachalam Hill Range, which is 300 metres above the sea level in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India. It is dedicated to Lord Vishnu, who is worshipped there as Varaha Narasimha.
attractions: , restaurants: Rasapurna tiffins and meals, Hotel Bhavana, Gayatri Hotel, Pavana Simhadri hotel
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