
Simhachalam Temple Darshan Timings, Poojas & Entry Fee Explained
Simhachalam Temple, located near Visakhapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, is one of the most revered shrines dedicated to Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Perched atop the scenic Simhachalam Hill, this ancient temple blends spiritual grandeur with architectural splendor, drawing lakhs of devotees every year.
Known for its unique tradition of keeping the deity covered in sandalwood paste throughout the year (except during the famous Chandanotsavam festival), Simhachalam holds a special place among the 32 Narasimha Kshetras in India. The temple is not only a hub for religious activities but also a prominent tourist destination, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere.
Simhachalam Temple Darshan Timings
Simhachalam Temple follows a well-structured schedule for darshan and rituals, allowing devotees to experience the divine presence of Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy throughout the day.
Daily Darshan Timings
Session | Timings | Description |
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Morning | 7:00 AM – 11:30 AM | General Darshan & Morning Sevas |
Break Time | 11:30 AM – 12:30 PM | Temple remains closed for Naivedyam |
Afternoon | 12:30 PM – 2:30 PM | Darshan Resumes |
Evening | 3:00 PM – 8:30 PM | Evening Darshan & Special Sevas |
Important Daily Poojas & Sevas at Simhachalam Temple
Simhachalam Temple is known for its unique and sacred rituals performed daily in honor of Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy. These poojas and sevas offer devotees a chance to participate in the divine traditions and receive blessings.
Here are the main daily poojas and their details:
1. Suprabhata Seva
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Timing: 4:00 AM – 4:30 AM (only for select days and ticket holders)
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Ticket Price: ₹50 (approx.)
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Description: This early morning seva involves waking the Lord with Vedic hymns and prayers.
2. Nijaroopa Darshanam (Uncovered Darshan)
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Only on Chandanotsavam Day
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Special Note: The main deity is covered with sandalwood paste throughout the year. The Nijaroopa (actual form) is revealed only once annually, during Chandanotsavam, attracting lakhs of devotees.
3. Archana (Personal Name Offering)
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Available during Darshan Hours
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Ticket Price: ₹30 onwards
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Description: Devotees can offer prayers by reciting the names of the deity along with their gotra and name.
4. Kalyanotsavam
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Timings: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM (on request or special occasions)
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Ticket Price: ₹1,000 (for a couple)
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Description: This is the ceremonial celestial wedding of the Lord performed on select days.
5. Sahasra Namarchana Seva
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Timings: Usually in the morning hours
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Ticket Price: ₹116 (approx.)
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Description: Recital of the 1,000 names of Lord Narasimha with flower offerings.
6. Chandanotsavam (Annual Festival)
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Date: Celebrated in April/May every year
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Entry: Free Darshan available, Special Darshan: ₹300 onwards
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Description: This is the only day in the year when the Lord’s original form is visible without the sandalwood layer. A massive celebration attracts over 1 lakh devotees.
Entry Fee & Darshan Charges at Simhachalam Temple
Type of Darshan/Service | Fee (₹) | Notes |
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General Darshan | Free | Standard queue during all darshan hours |
Special Darshan ₹100 | ₹100 per person | Quicker access; purchase offline at the ticket counter |
Special Darshan ₹150 (Seeghra) | ₹150 per person | Premium “Seeghra” darshan for faster entry |
Special Darshan ₹300 | ₹300 per person | Allows entry into the Garbha Gudi inner sanctum |
Festival Special Darshan | ₹300 – ₹1,500 | Valid during Chandanotsavam and other festivals |