The temple deity is almost entirely covered in thick sandalwood paste for approximately 350 days of the year.
Inscriptions dating back to 1087 AD indicate that the temple received royal patronage from the Chola king Kulothunga I.
The temple faces west rather than the traditional east, an orientation believed to be significant in specific regional religious customs.
The main shrine contains a 16-pillared mandapa constructed with black granite.
The deity's shape, when the sandalwood is removed, is said to resemble a combination of a boar (Varaha), a lion (Narasimha), and a human form.
The temple tank, Swami Pushkarini, is located at the foot of the hill and is considered a mandatory site for ritual cleansing before the climb.
Sri Varahalakshmi Narasimha Swamivari Temple is an 11th-century hill shrine located on Simhachalam Hill, 300 meters above sea level. The deity, Lord Narasimha, is traditionally kept covered in sandalwood paste throughout the year to maintain the icon's coolness, as legend dictates the deity is in a furious state. Only once a year, during the Chandanotsavam festival, the paste is removed for public viewing. The temple architecture exhibits a fusion of Kalinga, Chalukya, and Chola styles. The structure features a unique square sanctum and a high-pillared mandapa carved with intricate relief sculptures. It is a major center of Vaishnavite pilgrimage in Andhra Pradesh. The temple is situated in a dense forest reserve area on the outskirts of Visakhapatnam.
The pillared entrance gate and the exterior mandapa views from the temple courtyard.
Wear comfortable footwear as you will need to remove them at the entrance and walk on stone surfaces that can become hot.
Carry a water bottle and wear a hat if visiting during the hotter months, as the temple area is elevated and exposed.
Prepare for significant crowds during the annual Chandanotsavam festival, when the sandalwood is removed.
Avoid visiting during the peak heat of the afternoon. Do not attempt to take photos inside the sanctum, as security is strictly enforced.
The temple experiences its largest influx of visitors and special rituals during the annual Chandanotsavam festival, typically occurring in late spring, which may impact accessibility.
Traditional conservative dress is required; shoulders and legs must be covered. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the inner sanctum. Remove shoes before entering the temple complex.
