Simhachalam Temple, Andhra Pradesh

The Simhachalam temple has their own specific prayer timings and they are tended to be extremely strict about it. They follow the old Vaishnavite culture and that can be spotted from the writings on the inscriptions.

It is practiced, that on the occasion of Akshay Trithiya, the deity appears only for 12 hours. And on rest of the days, the deity is covered in sandalwood paste. Because of its rich culture and their hold on traditions, this temple has influenced many poets and writers.

The Simhachalam Temple is located atop of a hill which is a 1000+ steps stair travel for the devotees from hill below. The hours of operation are from 7 am to 4pm and from 6pm to 9pm. The Simhachalam temple remains open throughout the week. If you want a special Darshan, then INR 100 is charged per head. There is a list of special Pujas that the temple performs. You can take part in any of them for which you will have to pay a nominal amount.

If you are travelling there by air, then the nearest airport will be the one at Vishakhapatnam, which is 18kms away from the temple. The nearest railway station will be Vishakhapatnam Railway station. And on road, you can easily avail the APSRTC buses which connect Vishakhapatnam to all major cities. The buses are available at 10-15mins interval.