Simhachalam Giri Pradakshina on July 28; 4 lakh devotees expected

Visakhapatnam: The annual Giri Pradakshina of the Simhachalam temple will be held on July 28. The temple management expects around four lakh devotees from Andhra Pradesh, South Odisha and parts of Chhattisgarh to participate this year. Preparations for the annual event have already begun.

The 32-km-long pradakshina around the Simhachalam hills is held every year on Ashada Pournami. The temple authorities have discussed arrangements including round-the-clock medical camps, enhanced sanitation, public address systems, extensive drinking water facilities along the route, traffic diversions on National Highway 16, and tight security measures.

The route covers Tholi Pavancha at the foothills of Simhachalam temple, Adavivaram, Hanumanthawaka, Appughar, Venkojipalem, Muralinagar, Gopalapatnam and returns to the temple. Authorities have urged civic bodies to prioritise street lighting and pothole repairs.

The executive officer (EO) of Sri Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy temple held a review meeting with officials and priests. The Giri Pradakshina will be held on Chaturdasi (July 28), followed by Alaya Pradakshina on Pournami (July 29). Devotees will begin the 32-km walk on the evening of July 28.