Visakhapatnam: The annual 'Giri Pradakshina' festival at Simhachalam Devasthanam is set to attract lakhs of devotees on July 20 and 21. Chanting the name of Lord Narasimha, participants believe their prayers will be answered by taking part in the trek.

Officials from GVMC, police, endowments, and revenue departments, along with NGO representatives, are collaborating to ensure the festival's success. This year, the route is more convenient due to extensive repair works, especially in Madhavadhara, Adavivaram, and Port quarters.

Preparations include drinking water facilities, refreshments, bio-toilets, medical camps, and designated coconut-breaking points at Tholipavancha. The trek passes through Adavivaram, Arilova, Mudasarlova, Jodugullapalem, Appughar, Lumbini Park, Seethammadhara, Kailasapuram, Akkayyapalem, Madhavadhara, NAD junction, Gopalapatnam, and Prahaladapuram to Simhachalam.

Special changing arrangements are made at Lumbini Park for those taking a holy dip in the sea. A flower-decked chariot (pushpa ratham) carrying a model of the Simhachalam deity will accompany the trekkers. Devotees completing the trek will have darshan facilitated the following day.

S. Srinivasa Murthy, EO of the Devasthanam, assured that steps are in place for a hassle-free darshan. Voluntary organizations are setting up stalls to provide water, medicines, and refreshments. With over 3 lakh participants expected, arrangements are made accordingly.

Chief priest G. Srinivasacharyulu highlighted the trek's significance, equating it to 'bhumandala pradakshinam.' He mentioned that the event attracts devotees of all ages from Visakhapatnam and neighboring districts. For those unable to trek, an option to perform 108 circumambulations around the main temple is available.

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