Chandanotsavam Sri Varaha Lakshmi – Essential Travel Guide To The Festival

Chandanotsavam Sri Varaha Lakshmi is one of the most magical moments of the year at the famed Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple in Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam. On this special day, the sacred sandalwood paste (chandanam) that covers the idol throughout the year is ceremonially removed, giving devotees the rare opportunity to witness the deity’s original form (Nijarupa Darshanam) – a sight that draws tens of thousands of pilgrims from across India. The festival is usually observed on Akshaya Tritiya (April 30, 2025) at this ancient hilltop shrine dedicated to Lord Vishnu in his fierce-yet-benign Narasimha incarnation.

Quick Facts

About Chandanotsavam Sri Varaha Lakshmi

Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple on Simhachalam Hill is one of the most revered Vaishnavite shrines in South India. The temple’s legend dates back centuries and is closely associated with Lord Narasimha, the lion-man incarnation of Vishnu. Throughout the year, the main deity is covered with a thick layer of sandalwood paste, believed to calm the fierce form of Narasimha. On the day of Chandanotsavam, this paste is ceremonially removed before dawn so devotees can have Nijarupa Darshanam – seeing the idol in its original form.

Additionally, this festival is attended by lakhs of devotees. In 2025, the Andhra Pradesh Endowments Department designated April 30 as the date for Chandanotsavam, which sees attendance from neighbouring states as well. Authorities make special arrangements for crowd management and devotee comfort due to the massive crowd expected.

How To Reach

By Air

The nearest airport is Visakhapatnam International Airport (VTZ), approximately 14–16 km from the temple. Flights connect Visakhapatnam to major Indian cities including Hyderabad, Chennai, Delhi, Mumbai and Bengaluru. From the airport, taxis and ride-share services are available directly to Simhachalam.

By Train

Visakhapatnam Railway Station (VSKP) is the closest railhead, located about 16–18 km from Simhachalam. Most major trains from across India stop here. Auto-rickshaws, cabs and buses from the station can take you to the temple.

By Road

Simhachalam is well connected by road. Regular state transport and private buses from Visakhapatnam city centre and surrounding towns run to Simhachalam. Cab services offer direct rides from any point in the city. If you’re driving, well-maintained roads lead up to the temple area (parking may be restricted on festival days).

Booking & Ticket Information

To avoid long queues and get smooth access during busy festival days like Chandanotsavam Sri Varaha Lakshmi, many devotees opt for advance bookings. The online portal managed by the Government of Andhra Pradesh’s Endowments Department allows you to book tickets, pooja services, darshan slots, and prasadam.

Step-By-Step Booking

1. Visit the official portal: www.aptemples.ap.gov.in.
2. Create an account using your mobile number and email (or log in if already registered).
3. Select “Online Booking” and choose Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple, Simhachalam.
4. Choose dates (e.g., Chandanotsavam day if available) and darshan/prasadam/pooja packages.
5. Enter required details and proceed to payment.
6. Save/print the confirmation. You might also receive a WhatsApp message via the portal’s ‘Mana Mitra’ service (WhatsApp: 9552300009).

If online booking charges are unavailable for your dates, you can still purchase special darshan tickets (₹100–₹300 approx.) at the temple counters on the day, while general darshan remains free.

Best Time To Visit

While the temple is open all year, the period from October to March offers pleasant weather and light crowds – ideal for general tourism and darshan. However, Chandanotsavam Sri Varaha Lakshmi, held in April or May (Akshaya Tritiya), is spiritually significant and draws pilgrims especially for Nijarupa Darshanam.

Therefore, i personally visited during Chandanotsavam once, and the pre-dawn atmosphere was vibrant with anticipation. Devotees gathered before 4 AM to secure a place for the rare darshan window. What surprised me was how smoothly the procession and temple rituals were managed despite the large crowd – thanks to disciplined volunteers and temple authorities working together.

Also, this festival isn’t just a visit; it’s an immersive spiritual experience. I recommend planning well in advance to handle crowd density and ticket booking.

Nearby Attractions (With Approx. Distances)

• Kailasagiri Park – ~16 km from Simhachalam (scenic hilltop viewpoints)
• RK Beach – ~17 km (coastal promenade and sunset views)
• Visakhapatnam Aquarium – ~18 km (marine exhibits)
• Indira Gandhi Zoological Park – ~20 km (wildlife in natural settings)
• Bavikonda Buddhist Complex – ~25 km (ancient archaeological site)

These spots make for a varied itinerary if you’re exploring Visakhapatnam around the festival dates.

Insider Tips For Festivals

• Start early. On Chandanotsavam, devotees line up before sunrise to secure a good position for Nijarupa Darshanam.
• Dress modestly in traditional attire. This respects local customs and ensures smoother entry.
• Carry water and light snacks. While facilities exist, long waits are common on peak festival days.
• Mobile phones may be restricted inside sanctum areas – respect signage and temple rules.
• If you’re booking online, note the WhatsApp service number (9552300009) for confirmations and updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Chandanotsavam Sri Varaha Lakshmi?

Chandanotsavam is the annual sandalwood festival at Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple when the sandal paste covering the deity through the year is removed to reveal the original idol to devotees.

When Is The Festival Celebrated?

The festival occurs on Akshaya Tritiya (April 30 in 2025). Dates may vary by the Hindu lunar calendar each year.

Do I Need A Ticket For Nijarupa Darshan?

General darshan is free, but special entry tickets (₹100–₹300 approx.) help reduce waiting time. Advance online booking is recommended.

Can I Visit The Temple Outside Festival Days?

Yes. The temple is open daily with set darshan timings, and you can visit anytime for regular blessings and poojas.

Is Photography Allowed?

Photography inside the inner sanctum is typically not permitted. Follow temple signage and guidelines for respect and safety.

Also, chandanotsavam Sri Varaha Lakshmi is more than a festival. It’s a culmination of faith, tradition, and devotion. Whether you’re a pilgrim seeking blessings or a traveler curious about India’s spiritual tapestry, this festival at Simhachalam offers memories that stay with you long after your visit.