Simhachalam Temple

Simhachalam Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple (सिंहाचलम्) is a Hindu temple in Visakhapatnam district, Andhra Pradesh.

Overview

The Simhachalam Temple is dedicated to Vishnu as Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha (the man-lion incarnation) and is one of the most important Vishnu temples in South India. It is situated on the Simhachalam hill overlooking the Bay of Bengal.

History and Legend

According to legend, Vishnu appeared as Narasimha here to kill the demon Hiranyakashipu. The temple was built by the Eastern Ganga king Narasimhadeva I in the 13th century. The Chola, Chalukya, and Vijayanagara dynasties also patronised the temple.

Architecture and Features

The temple features a Dravidian-style gopuram, a sanctum with the Narasimha icon (covered in sandalwood paste year-round), and the Kurla Teertham (sacred tank). The temple’s unique feature is that the main deity is never uncovered, remaining perpetually covered in sandalwood paste.

Modern Status

The temple is managed by the Simhachalam Devasthanam Trust under the Andhra Pradesh government. The annual Chandanotsavam festival, when the sandalwood paste is removed, is the major event.

Verification Notes

• Dedicated to Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha; a major pilgrimage centre of Andhra Pradesh.
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).