Devotees will be allowed darshan from 3 a.m. for annual Chandanotsavam at Simhachalam temple

Devotees can begin darshan at 3 a.m. for the 'Chandanotsavam' at Simhachalam temple; 'Antaralayam darshan' decision pending.

Devotees attending the annual ‘Chandanotsavam’, to be held from April 20, 2026, at the Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple, will be allowed darshan from 3 a.m., said Simhachalam Devasthanam Executive Officer J. Venkata Rao.

He also stated that a final decision regarding ‘Antaralayam darshan’ will be taken at a meeting chaired by the District Collector soon. Urging officials of all concerned departments to extend full cooperation, the EO emphasised prioritising common devotees and ensuring foolproof arrangements.

The EO took part in a review meeting to discuss arrangements for the ‘Chandanotsavam’, with the officials from various departments at Simhachalam here on Saturday (February 21, 2026).

He said that QR code scanning systems will be implemented at entry points to facilitate faster access to the devotees. The authorities also discussed reducing the number of buses as much as possible, including limiting AC buses, in the view of recent incidents. In this regard, the police and RTC officials were asked to coordinate effectively in managing bus operations. He directed officials to ensure buses undergo fitness inspections and managers are appointed at every point for supervision.

The EO informed that for the convenience of devotees, five separate queue lines will be arranged, with an emergency exit at every 100 meters. He stated that adequate lighting will be provided in both uphill and downhill areas. Mobile toilets, drinking water facilities, and other amenities will be arranged. Special queue lines will be set up for senior citizens and persons with disabilities.

He also informed that medical camps will be set up where necessary, along with a temporary hospital equipped with beds and ambulance services. For security purposes, teams from National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) will be kept on standby. Electrical and fire safety standards will be strictly followed.