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Located in the midst of the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal, Visakhapatnam, popularly known as Vizag, is the largest city in Andhra Pradesh and is a famous tourist destination in the country. From beaches to historical monuments, hills to valleys and lakes to temples, one can find everything in and around this beautiful metropolis. Over a period of time, it has developed into a thriving tourist centre and is prospering swiftly. Today, we discuss the most significant temples in Visakhapatnam where one can experience a quaint and peaceful environment.
Some of them date back to centuries, numerous to decades and a few of them are constructed recently. Let's take a look at these beautiful sites and learn in detail about their surroundings and history.
1) Simhachalam Temple
Located on the outskirts of Visakhapatnam, Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Temple is built atop Simhachalam Hill, and hence it is also known as Simhachalam Temple. It is the most significant and the most frequented temple in the city as it witnesses tourists and Hindu devotees in millions every year.
The temple is dedicated to Lord Vishnu and has a history dating back to the 9th century when it was constructed by the Later Cholas. However, as per local legends, the temple is said to have been in existence for thousands of years.
Today, it has become a major pilgrimage centre in the state and is one of the prominent religious places amongst Vaishnavites. Surrounded by green hills and lush vegetation, the atmosphere in and around the region of the temple remains soothing throughout the year.
2) Sri Kanaka Maha Lakshmi Temple
Another beauty harbouring a serene composed environment, Sri Kanaka Maha Lakshmi Temple is a perfect place for every tourist and traveller who is looking forward to spending a few hours amidst a blissful aura. The temple is said to have been built in the early 20th century.
However, the idol placed inside the temple is believed to have been in existence since time immemorial. Did you know that this idol is actually placed in the middle of a road? Yes, when the idol was found by the locals, they placed it in the middle of the municipal lane and started worshipping it.
Over a period of time, the temple was developed around the idol, thereby, converting the road into a proper religious site. Wouldn't you love to find yourself at such a historic place?
3) Devipuram
Built in the late 20th century in the style of South Indian architecture, Devipuram is a beautiful complex of four Hindu temples with Goddess Shakti and Lord Shiva as the presiding deities. It is one of the few temples in the city where people of all castes, creeds and religions can pray.
The incredible architecture of the temple is also commendable. Surrounded by the green hills of the Eastern Ghats, the atmosphere of this enchanting temple complex provides its visitors with a soothing experience.
Wouldn't you love to escape the busy city life and find yourself at such a charming place where you can get lost in the beauty of nature and spirituality? If yes, then Devipuram is your calling.
4) Nookambika Temple
One of the oldest temples in the city, Nookambika Temple was built several centuries ago by a local king who ruled the region. Goddess Nookambika, who was then called Goddess Kakatambika, was the family deity of the king.
Today, the temple has become a popular religious site and during the festival of Ugadi, it is frequented by thousands of Hindu devotees and tourists. Even though it has been renovated several times, the sanctum of the temple is still untouched.
5) Sri Sampath Vinayagar Temple
Another temple which allures thousands of tourists and devotees every year, Sri Sampath Vinayagar Temple is built in the locality of Asilmetta. It is a must-visit religious site for every tourist on account of its religious significance.
As per locals, it is believed that due to the presence of this temple, PNS Ghazi, the fast-attack submarine of Pakistan, sank in the Bay of Bengal during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, thereby, saving the city from destruction.
Since then, the temple has been holding a significant place amongst locals. What do you think of visiting this divine temple and getting blessed by Lord Ganesha, who is the presiding deity of the temple?
