Full Details Of Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

 

The Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is a renowned temple located in the city of Visakhapatnam, in the southern state of Andhra Pradesh in India. This temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, who is believed to be one of the incarnations of Lord Vishnu. The temple is situated atop a hill known as Simhachalam, which is around 800 meters high and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The temple is visited by millions of devotees from all over the world every year, and it is considered to be one of the most important religious sites in the region.

History:
The history of the Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple can be traced back to the 9th century, when it was first built by the Eastern Ganga dynasty. The temple was later renovated by the Chola kings in the 11th century, and it was further expanded by the Vijayanagara kings in the 15th century. The temple was also patronized by the Reddy kings of Kondaveedu in the 14th century, who made significant contributions to the temple’s architecture and art.

The temple is known for its unique architecture, which combines both the Dravidian and Orissan styles. The main shrine of the temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, who is depicted in a fierce form with a lion’s head and a human body. The temple also houses shrines dedicated to Lord Varaha and Goddess Lakshmi, who are believed to be the other deities of the temple.

Architecture:
The architecture of the Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is a blend of the Dravidian and Orissan styles. The main temple is built in the Dravidian style, which is characterized by its tall gopurams (gateway towers) and pillared halls. The temple is also adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, which depict scenes from Hindu mythology and the life of Lord Narasimha.

The inner sanctum of the temple is surrounded by a mandapam (pillared hall) which is supported by sculpted pillars. The mandapam is decorated with murals and carvings, which depict various aspects of Lord Narasimha’s life. The sanctum sanctorum of the temple houses the idol of Lord Narasimha, which is believed to be self-manifested. The idol is made of black granite and is around 10 feet tall.

The temple also has several other shrines dedicated to various deities, including Lord Varaha, who is depicted in a boar-headed form, and Goddess Lakshmi, who is depicted as the consort of Lord Narasimha. The shrines are located around the main temple and are accessible through separate entrances.

Full Details Of Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

 

Festivals:

The Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, which are attended by millions of devotees. The most important festival of the temple is the annual Brahmotsavam, which is held in the month of Vaisakha (April-May) and lasts for 42 days. The festival is marked by daily rituals, processions, and cultural programs, and it culminates with the Rathotsavam, a grand procession in which the idol of Lord Narasimha is taken out in a chariot.

The Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple celebrates several festivals throughout the year, some of which are:

Brahmotsavam: This is the most important festival celebrated at the temple, which lasts for nine days. It is usually held in the month of March or April and attracts a large number of devotees. The festival begins with the hoisting of the temple flag and culminates with the Tiru Kalyanam or the divine wedding ceremony of Lord Narasimha and Goddess Lakshmi.

Vaikunta Ekadasi: This is another important festival celebrated at the temple, which falls in the month of December or January. On this day, it is believed that the gates of Vaikunta (the abode of Lord Vishnu) are opened for devotees to enter. Special rituals and prayers are performed at the temple on this day, and thousands of devotees throng the temple to offer their prayers to Lord Narasimha.

Rathotsavam: This festival is celebrated in the month of May or June and involves the procession of the temple deities on a chariot around the temple complex. The chariot is decorated with flowers and other ornaments, and devotees pull the chariot while chanting hymns and prayers.

Ugadi: This is the Telugu New Year, which falls in the month of March or April. Special prayers and rituals are performed at the temple on this day, and devotees offer their prayers for a prosperous and happy new year.

Karthika Masam: This is a month-long festival celebrated in the month of November or December. It is considered to be a very auspicious month for Hindus, and special rituals and prayers are performed at the temple during this time.

Apart from these festivals, the temple also celebrates other important occasions such as Sankranti, Holi, and Diwali. Each festival has its own unique significance and is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion by the temple authorities and devotees alike.

Legends:
There are several legends associated with the Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple. According to one legend, Lord Vishnu appeared before a devotee named Prahlada in his Narasimha avatar and saved him from his evil father, Hiranyakashipu. Another legend states that the temple was built by a king named Dantapura, who was cured of his illness after he had a vision of Lord Narasimha. Yet another legend states that the temple was built by a king named Narasimha Varma II, who had a vision of Lord Narasimha while he was hunting in the forest.

 

 

 

Full Details Of Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

 

Significance:
The Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is considered to be one of the most important religious sites in the region. It is believed that a visit to the temple can bring good health, prosperity, and spiritual fulfillment. The temple is also known for its unique architecture and artwork, which reflect the rich cultural heritage of the region.

The temple is also an important center of pilgrimage for devotees of Lord Narasimha, who is believed to be a powerful deity capable of removing obstacles and granting blessings. Many devotees offer special prayers and perform rituals at the temple, seeking the blessings of Lord Narasimha. The temple is also an important site for performing various pujas and homas (sacred fire rituals) for different purposes, such as wealth, health, and success.

Administration:
The Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is administered by the Endowments Department of the Government of Andhra Pradesh. The temple has a team of priests and staff members who perform the daily rituals and manage the affairs of the temple. The temple also has a trust, which is responsible for the maintenance and development of the temple complex.

Visiting:
The Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is open to visitors throughout the year. The temple is located around 16 kilometers from the city of Visakhapatnam and can be reached by road or by climbing up the hill. Visitors can also take the ropeway, which provides a scenic view of the surrounding landscape.

Visitors are required to follow certain rules and regulations while visiting the temple. They are expected to dress modestly and remove their footwear before entering the temple premises. Photography and videography are not allowed inside the temple.

Conclusion:
The Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is a unique and important religious site that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the region. The temple’s unique architecture and artwork, combined with its rich history and legends, make it a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in Hindu mythology and culture. The temple’s spiritual significance and importance as a center of pilgrimage make it a must-visit destination for devotees of Lord Narasimha and anyone seeking spiritual fulfillment.

How to Reach Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple

The Simhachalam Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is located around 16 kilometers from the city of Visakhapatnam in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The temple can be reached by road, by climbing up the hill, or by taking the ropeway. Here’s how to reach the temple:

By Road: The temple is well-connected to Visakhapatnam and other nearby cities by road. Visitors can take buses or hire taxis to reach the temple. There are several buses that operate from Visakhapatnam to the temple at regular intervals.

By Climb: Visitors can also climb up the hill to reach the temple. The climb is steep and can be challenging, but it is considered to be a holy pilgrimage by many devotees. The climb takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on the pace of the visitor.

By Ropeway: The temple also has a ropeway facility that provides a scenic view of the surrounding landscape. The ropeway ride takes around 10 minutes to reach the top of the hill, where the temple is located. Visitors can purchase tickets for the ropeway at the base of the hill.

Visitors are advised to plan their visit to the temple in advance and to arrive early in the morning to avoid the rush. The temple can get crowded during festivals and special occasions, so visitors should plan accordingly. It is also important to follow the rules and regulations of the temple and to dress modestly while visiting.

 

simhachalam temple online booking

simhachalam online darshan tickets

simhachalam temple accommodation

simhachalam temple phone number

simhachalam temple photos

simhachalam chandanotsavam 2018

simhachalam temple history

simhachalam devasthanam sevas

AP-Temples Full Details