Yoga Narasimha Temple - Sholingur, Vellore - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple

At a distance of 3.5 Km from Sholingur Bus Station and 51 Km from Vellore, Sholingur Sri Yoga Narasimha temple is a revered Hindu temple Situated at Sholingur village in the Ranipet district of Tamil Nadu. It is one of the famous pilgrimage sites near Chennai, and among the must-include places in Vellore Tour. Situated atop a hill called Periya Malai,the temple is dedicated to Lord Narasimha, the man-lion incarnation of Lord Vishnu. The presiding deity is seen here in yogic posture. It is one of the 108 Divya Desams dedicated to Vishnu. The temple is glorified in the Naalayira Divya Prabandham, the early medieval Tamil canon of the Alvar saints from the 6th-9th centuries CE.

History of Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple

The temple features numerous inscriptions that reflect the generous donations made by Kulothunga Chola III, Mayuravarman, and Seeyagangan. The current edifice is believed to have been constructed during the Vijayanagara Dynasty, with notable contributions from Sri Acharya Swami and Swami Doddachar. Sholingur was also the site of a battle between the British forces and Hyder Ali in July 1781, resulting in a British victory. The temple is currently overseen and managed by the Hindu Religious and Charitable Endowments Department of the Government of Tamil Nadu.

Mythology of Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple

The region was initially referred to as Thirukadigai or Kadigachalam, which translates to 'hill of 24 minutes'. According to legend, Lord Narasimha, the fourth incarnation of Lord Vishnu, after slaying the demon Hiranyakashipu, reached this hill to take rest. Here he found seven rishis who very undergoing deep repentance in order to get the blessings of the Lord. The lord was pleased with their sincere devotion and dedication and granted moksha to all the seven rishis. Hence, this place also came to be known as Kadikachalam.

Sage Vishwamitra, who also practiced penance here, is said to have been blessed by Lord Narasimha and granted the title of 'Brahmma Rishi' within 24 minutes (one Kadigai). Following Vishwamitra's attainment of the Brahmarishi title in this location, it was renamed Simhapuram, which eventually evolved into Sholingur.

Architecture of Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple

The Sholingur Temple is situated on twin hills, with the larger hill known as Periya Malai, which hosts the Yoga Narasimha Temple. This temple is positioned at an elevation of approximately 1,000 feet, requiring visitors to ascend around 1,300 steps to reach the shrine. At the summit, the temple built in Dravidian architecture, features a five-tiered rajagopuram. The main deity, Lord Narasimha, is depicted in a yogic posture within the sanctum sanctorum, holding a conch and a discus in two of his arms, while the other two arms are positioned to indicate meditation. The vimana above the sanctum is referred to as Hemakoti Vimanam. Additionally, there is a separate shrine dedicated to his consort, Amrithavalli Thayaar.

On the smaller hill, known as Chinna Malai, lies the Yoga Anjeneyar Swamy temple, which is dedicated to Lord Hanuman. This temple is located at an altitude of 350 feet and features a deity with four arms, holding a conch and a discus in the upper arms, while the lower arms hold a Jeba Malai and Jeba Shankaram, respectively. It is said that Anjaneya's gaze is directed towards the feet of Yoga Narasimha. The lower shrine of the larger hill contains the image of the festival deity, Varadaraja, along with the images of Bhaktavatchala Perumal and Sudavalli Thayar. Midway up the hill, there is a four-pillared hall that houses the images of Doddacharya and Sudarshana. The temple tank is known as Brahmatheertham.

Devotees believe that worshipping Sri Yoga Narasimha at this temple can alleviate various ailments, particularly mental health issues and disturbances from evil spirits. It is customary for worshippers to bathe in the temple tank, referred to as Takkan Kulam or Brahma Tirtham, before beginning their ascent to seek the Lord's darshan. For those unable to climb the steps, doli services are available, and a recently introduced ropeway has been established to assist devotees in reaching the hilltop.

Festivals of Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple

The Sri Yoga Narasimha Swamy Temple in Sholingur celebrates various festivals, with the Chittirai Brahmotsavam in April/May, Avani Pavitrotsavam in August/September, Karthigai Thiruvizha during November/December, Margazhi Padi Utsavam in December/January, and Narasimha Jayanthi in May/June being prominent. During Brahmotsavam festival, the temple car housing the festival deities of Narasimhar and Amirtavalli is drawn around the streets of the temple.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple

While there isn't a strict dress code for visiting the Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple, it's recommended to dress modestly and respectfully, covering your shoulders and legs, as a mark of respect for the temple's sanctity. Men are encouraged to wear a dhoti or pajama paired with an upper garment, as well as formal trousers and shirts. Women may opt for a saree, half saree, or churidhar. Avoid wearing nightwear, short pants, midis, short dresses, and sleeveless tops.

Non-Hindus are welcome to explore the temple complex and appreciate its architectural beauty; however, access to the sanctum sanctorum may be restricted.

Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple Timings

Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Saturday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM
Sunday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM

Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple Entry Fee

General Entry is Free
Special Darshan available for Rs. 20
Rope Way ticket for one-way trip is Rs. 15

Best Time to Visit Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple

The optimal period to visit the Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple is during the winter months, specifically from November to February, when the weather is enjoyable and conducive for a thorough exploration of the temple. For an immersive experience of the temple's religious practices, plan your visit around major festivals such as the Chittirai Brahmotsavam in April/May, Avani Pavitrotsavam in August/September, and Narasimha Jayanthi in May/June. These events feature stunning decorations and a variety of religious ceremonies. It is strongly advised to avoid visiting the temple in the summer, as temperatures can soar to 40 degrees Celsius, resulting in uncomfortable heat.

How to Reach Sholingur Yoga Narasimha Temple

The nearest international airport is at Chennai which is 106 Km away from Sholingur. The nearest railway station is at Sholingur which is 10 Km but the frequency is less. Arakkonam is well connected with good frequency, which is 30 Km away. From Arakkonam, one can reach the temple by taking a bus or hiring a cab. Sholingur is well connected by bus with Chennai, Arakkonam, Vellore, and Tirupati. Devotees must climb 1,300 steps to reach the temple. Palanquins, as well as Rope Way are available for those who are unable to climb the steps.