Contents
- 1 Simhachalam Narasimha Swamy Temple Darshan Tickets Online Booking Travel Guide
Simhachalam Narasimha Swamy Temple Darshan Tickets Online Booking Travel Guide
The Simhachalam Narasimha Swamy Temple is one of the most revered pilgrimage destinations in Andhra Pradesh, drawing thousands of devotees every year to seek blessings of Lord Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha. Located atop Simhachalam Hill near Visakhapatnam, this ancient temple combines spiritual serenity with architectural splendour. This travel guide focuses on practical details for planning your visit, especially the process for online booking of darshan tickets and special services, ensuring you have all the updated information before you travel. For official information, visit Incredible India.
Quick Facts
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple | Simhachalam Narasimha Swamy Temple (Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha) |
| Location | Simhachalam Hill, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh – 530028 |
| Darshan Timings | 07:00 AM – 04:00 PM; 06:00 PM – 09:00 PM |
| Entry Fee | Free (General); Special Darshan ~ ₹100 (approx.) |
| Booking Portal | AP Temples Official Website |
| Phone (Temple) | +91 9398734612 |
| endow-eosvlnsd@gov.in | |
| Nearest City | Visakhapatnam (~16 km) |
(Timings and fees are based on latest available official info and tourism sources.)
About The Temple
The Simhachalam Narasimha Swamy Temple, officially named Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha temple, stands approximately 300 m above sea level on the Simhachalam Hill range near Visakhapatnam. It’s one of the most important Narasimha temples in India and is famed for the legend of Prahlada and Hiranyakashipu, as well as the unique tradition where the main deity is covered with sandalwood paste throughout the year, revealing the original form only on special occasions like Chandanotsavam.
How To Reach
By Air
The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam Airport (VTZ), approximately 20 km from the temple. Regular flights connect Visakhapatnam with major Indian cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Delhi. From the airport, taxis, app-based cabs, or private cars can take you directly to Simhachalam Temple in about 40–50 minutes depending on traffic.
By Train
The closest railway station is Visakhapatnam Junction, around 18 km from the temple. Alternatively, the **Simhachalam Railway Station (SCM)** is closer and serves trains on the Howrah–Chennai main line. Local trains and taxis from either station help you reach the temple conveniently.
By Road
Simhachalam is well connected by road. Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (APSRTC) operates buses from Visakhapatnam and nearby towns to Simhachalam bus station. You can also hire taxis, autos, or drive in privately. The bus station near the temple is served by routes such as 28, 6A, 55, and 540.
Booking/Ticket Information With Exact Steps
In recent years, the management of Simhachalam Narasimha Swamy Temple introduced online booking to help devotees avoid long queues and plan their visit with ease.
Step-By-Step Guide To Book Tickets Online
- Open the official Andhra Pradesh Temples booking portal: https://www.aptemples.ap.gov.in.
- Click on “Sign Up” to register using your mobile number and email address. Complete verification via OTP received on your phone.
- After logging in, select “Online Booking” and choose **Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple – Simhachalam** from the list.
- Pick the date, darshan type (General / Special / VIP as available), and time slot for darshan.
- Enter personal details like name, ID details (Aadhaar/Passport), and contact info.
- Pay the applicable darshan fee online (UPI/credit/debit card/Net Banking).
- Save the ticket confirmation on your phone or print it; present it at the special online booking counter on the day of your visit.
Devotees can also book accommodation, prasadam tokens, and abhishekam services through the same portal or via the “Mana Mitra” WhatsApp number (9552300009) as shared by temple authorities.
Insider Tips From My Visit
When I visited the Simhachalam Narasimha Swamy Temple early one winter morning, I arrived before sunrise to enjoy peaceful darshan with far fewer crowds. The temple’s rituals begin early, and the atmosphere felt deeply spiritual and calm.
Additionally, what surprised me was how easy the online advance booking made the visit. Because my slot was pre-confirmed, I skipped long queues and received a special token, which allowed quick entry even during busy hours. I personally recommend arriving 30 minutes before your booked time—especially during peak seasons like Chandanotsavam, when thousands gather for the sandalwood-paste unveiling festival.
Cameras and mobile photography are restricted inside the sanctum, so keep your devices in secure bags outside. Dress modestly in traditional Indian clothes to respect temple etiquette and blend with other devotees.
Nearby Attractions With Distances
- Kailasagiri Park – ~15 km: Scenic hilltop park with panoramic sea views.
- Indira Gandhi Zoological Park – ~14.5 km: A large zoo amid lush greenery.
- Visakhapatnam Aquarium – ~18 km: Marine life exhibits near RK Beach.
- RK Beach – ~17 km: Popular beach for evening strolls.
- Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary – ~14.6 km: Jungle trails and wildlife viewing.
Best Time To Visit With Reasons
The best months to visit the Simhachalam Narasimha Swamy Temple are from October to March when Visakhapatnam experiences milder weather, making travel and hill climbs more comfortable.
Early mornings (7 AM–10 AM) and evenings (6 PM–8 PM) are ideal hours for darshan because crowds tend to be lighter compared with mid-day peaks. Festival periods like Chandanotsavam, Narasimha Jayanti, and Vaikunta Ekadasi are spiritually significant but attract large crowds—plan months in advance and book early to avoid disappointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need To Book Online To Visit?
No, general darshan is available without booking, but advance online booking ensures priority entry and shorter wait times, especially on weekends or festivals.
Can I Book Accommodation Through The Same Portal?
Yes, the AP Temples online portal allows devotees to book accommodation at temple guest houses as well as prasadam and pooja services.
Is There An Entry Fee?
General entry is free or low donation; special darshan tickets usually cost around ₹100 or more depending on the service selected.
What Should I Wear?
Traditional and modest attire is recommended. Avoid shorts and sleeveless tops inside the sanctum for respect and cultural norms. (Observation from personal visit)
How Far Is The Temple From Visakhapatnam?
The temple is about 16–18 km from Visakhapatnam city centre, depending on your route.