Simhachalam Chandanotsavam 2026 Tickets Price: The annual Chandanotsavam festival at Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple is one of the most sacred events for devotees of Lord Narasimha.
In 2026, Chandanotsavam will be celebrated on April 20, when devotees get the rare opportunity to witness the Nijarupa Darshanam—the original form of the deity. This is the only day in the entire year when the idol is seen without the sandalwood paste covering.
Simhachalam Chandanotsavam 2026
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Temple Name | Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple |
| Festival Name | Chandanotsavam (Chandana Yatra) |
| Date | April 20, 2026 |
| Booking Start Date | April 13, 2026 |
| Special Darshan Ticket Price | ₹300 |
| Premium Darshan Ticket Price | ₹1000 |
| Main Highlight | Nijarupa Darshanam (Original Form of Deity) |
| Location | Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh |
| Darshan Type | Slot-based system |
| Crowd Expectation | 2+ lakh devotees |
| Special Arrangements | Separate queues, QR code entry, CCTV monitoring |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning or assigned slot time |
Simhachalam Chandanotsavam 2026 Tickets Price
The temple authorities have announced special darshan ticket pricing for this festival:
- ₹300 – Standard Special Darshan
- ₹1000 – Premium Darshan
These tickets allow devotees to experience the Nijarupa Darshan with better queue management and reduced waiting time.
Important Dates to Remember

- Chandanotsavam Festival Date: April 20, 2026
- Online Ticket Booking Start Date: April 13, 2026
- Darshan Timings Begin: Early hours after temple rituals
Devotees are advised to book tickets as early as possible due to high demand.
Significance of Nijarupa Darshanam
During most of the year, the idol of Lord Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha is covered with sandalwood paste. On Chandanotsavam day, this covering is removed, revealing the deity’s true form.
This sacred darshan is believed to:
- Bring spiritual blessings
- Remove negative energies
- Fulfill devotees’ wishes
Thousands of devotees from Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and across India attend this event every year.
Simhachalam Temple Darshan Ticket Price (Regular Days)
Apart from Chandanotsavam, the temple offers different darshan options:
| Darshan Type | Details | Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|
| Athi Sigra Darshanam | Fast-track entry | ₹100 |
| Special Darshanam | Priority access | ₹50 |
| Sarva Darshan | General queue | ₹10 or free |
Paid darshan tickets usually help reduce waiting time significantly.
Simhachalam Temple Online Booking 2026 (Step-by-Step)
Booking your darshan online is the easiest way to avoid long queues. Follow these steps:
- Visit the official Andhra Pradesh temples booking portal
- Register using your mobile number
- Login using OTP
- Select Simhachalam Temple from the list
- Choose darshan type, date, and time slot
- Enter personal details and ID proof
- Complete the payment online
- Download or save your ticket confirmation
Carry a digital or printed copy of your ticket during your visit.
Crowd Management & Special Arrangements 2026
For Chandanotsavam 2026, the government and temple authorities have made advanced arrangements:
- Slot-based darshan system for better crowd control
- Separate queues for senior citizens and differently-abled devotees
- QR code-based ticket verification
- Multiple queue lines with large capacity
- CCTV and AI-based crowd monitoring
- Free distribution of drinking water, milk, and refreshments
These measures ensure a smooth and safe darshan experience.
Simhachalam Chandanotsavam 2026 Attractions
| Attraction | Details |
|---|---|
| Nijarupa Darshanam | Rare दर्शन of Lord Narasimha without sandalwood covering (only once a year) |
| Temple Architecture | Ancient South Indian temple with stunning stone carvings |
| Spiritual Atmosphere | Powerful devotional environment with Vedic chants |
| Hilltop Location | Scenic temple located on Simhachalam hill |
| Massive Devotee Gathering | Lakhs of devotees from Andhra Pradesh and nearby states |
| Traditional Rituals | Unique पूजा and offerings performed by priests |
| Annadanam (Free Food) | Food distribution for devotees throughout the day |
Simhachalam Chandanotsavam 2026 – Major Events & Schedule
| Event | Details |
|---|---|
| Temple Closure | April 19, 2026 (7 PM onwards for rituals preparation) |
| Sandalwood Removal Ritual | Midnight rituals before festival day |
| First Darshan | Early morning (after 1 AM) for temple authorities and VIPs |
| Nijarupa Darshan Begins | April 20, 2026 early morning |
| General Devotee Darshan | After VIP darshan, open to public |
| Special Darshan Slots | Available for ₹300 and ₹1000 ticket holders |
| Annadanam Services | Free food and refreshments provided |
| Crowd Management | Slot-based darshan with QR code system |
| Security & Monitoring | CCTV and AI-based crowd tracking |
| Festival Closing | Late night after completion of darshan |
Travel Tips for Devotees
- Reach the temple as per your allotted time slot
- Avoid peak hours if possible
- Carry valid ID proof
- Wear traditional and comfortable clothing
- Stay hydrated due to large crowds
Why You Should Attend Chandanotsavam 2026
Chandanotsavam is not just a festival—it is a once-in-a-year spiritual opportunity. Witnessing the Nijarupa Darshan is considered highly auspicious and deeply fulfilling for devotees.
Planning your visit early ensures a peaceful and memorable experience.
FAQs
What is the date of Simhachalam Chandanotsavam 2026?
The Chandanotsavam festival will be celebrated on April 20, 2026.
What is the ticket price for Chandanotsavam 2026?
The special darshan tickets are priced at ₹300 and ₹1000.
When does online booking start for Chandanotsavam 2026?
Online booking begins on April 13, 2026.
What is Nijarupa Darshanam?
Nijarupa Darshanam is the rare दर्शन of Lord Narasimha in his original form without sandalwood paste, available only once a year during Chandanotsavam.
Where is Simhachalam Temple located?
The temple is located in Simhachalam, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
Is free darshan available during Chandanotsavam?
Yes, free darshan may be available, but it usually involves longer waiting times compared to paid tickets.
How can I book Simhachalam darshan tickets online?
You can book tickets through the official Andhra Pradesh temples portal by selecting the date, time slot, and completing the payment online.
What are the regular darshan ticket prices at Simhachalam Temple?
Regular darshan options include:
- Athi Sigra Darshanam – ₹100
- Special Darshanam – ₹50
- Sarva Darshan – Free or minimal fee
What time does darshan start on Chandanotsavam day?
Darshan usually starts in the early morning hours after temple rituals, following VIP darshan.
Are there special arrangements for senior citizens?
Yes, separate darshan queues and facilities are arranged for senior citizens and differently-abled devotees.
How crowded is Chandanotsavam?
The festival attracts over 2 lakh devotees, so advance booking is strongly recommended.
What facilities are provided for devotees?
Facilities include drinking water, food distribution, queue management, security monitoring, and medical support.
