High atop a sacred hill in Tamil Nadu stands a temple unlike any other in India. Here, silence speaks louder than chants, stillness teaches more than sermons, and just 24 minutes of sincere prayer is believed to grant liberation.
This is Sholingur Temple, also known as Ghatikachalam the hill of the sacred Ghatika.
For centuries, sages, yogis, and devotees have climbed this hill not just with their feet, but with faith, seeking inner awakening under the calm gaze of Lord Yoga Narasimha.
Why Sholingur Is Called Ghatikachalam
The name Ghatikachalam comes from the Sanskrit word “Ghatika”, meaning a time span of 24 minutes.
Ancient scriptures and local belief say that a devotee who prays here with complete focus for just one Ghatika attains Moksha freedom from the cycle of birth and death.
Unlike temples that emphasize ritual grandeur, Sholingur emphasizes inner silence. It teaches that liberation is not distant it is immediate, if the mind is still.
Lord Yoga Narasimha – The Silent Teacher
At the summit of the hill resides Lord Narasimha, not in fierce form, but seated in a Yoga posture.
This rare form is known as Yoga Narasimha.
Here, the Lord is believed to be teaching sages through silence, guiding seekers inward rather than outward. His posture symbolizes:
- Control of the senses
- Discipline of the mind
- Mastery over fear and ego
Devotees often report an overwhelming calm upon entering the sanctum as if time itself slows down.
Sholingur Temple Steps – The Sacred Climb of 1,305 Steps
Reaching the main shrine requires climbing 1,305 stone steps, carved into the hill centuries ago.
What the climb represents:
- Every step is said to burn past karma
- Physical effort mirrors inner discipline
- The climb becomes a form of moving meditation
Practical details:
- Average climb time: 45–60 minutes
- Resting platforms available
- Handrails provided at steep sections
The journey upward is as sacred as the darshan itself.
Yoga Anjaneya Temple – The Four-Armed Hanuman
On the opposite hill stands the famous Yoga Anjaneya Temple.
This Hanuman is extremely rare depicted with four arms, symbolizing:
- Strength
- Devotion
- Knowledge
- Protection
Devotees often visit Yoga Anjaneya first to seek strength before climbing to Yoga Narasimha, completing a powerful spiritual circuit.
Sholingur Temple Timings (Darshan Guide)
Knowing the correct Sholingur temple timings helps devotees plan a peaceful visit.
Regular Darshan Timings
- Morning: 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Timings may vary on:
- Saturdays
- Sundays
- Festival days
- Special poojas
It is advised to arrive early during weekends and Karthigai month.
Sholingur Temple Rope Car Timings – 2026 Update
For devotees unable to climb the steps, a rope car (ropeway) facility has been proposed.
Important update:
- The rope car is under development
- Sholingur temple rope car timings are expected to be announced officially
- Devotees visiting in 2026 should check temple or government updates before planning
Until operational, elderly devotees may consider visiting during less crowded hours.
Best Time to Visit Sholingur Temple
The most vibrant time to visit is during the Tamil month of Karthigai (November–December).
Why Karthigai is special:
- Pleasant weather
- Festival lamps illuminate the hill
- Spiritual atmosphere at its peak
Early mornings and weekdays offer the most peaceful experience.
How to Reach Sholingur Temple
By Train
- Nearest railway station: Arakkonam (approx. 30 km)
By Road
- Well connected from Chennai, Vellore, Tiruttani
- Buses and taxis available from Arakkonam
Parking facilities are available at the foothills.
Pilgrim Pro-Tips (Very Important)
- 🐒 Beware of monkeys they can be aggressive
- Carry a stick available at the foothills (do not harm animals)
- Avoid carrying visible food items
- Wear comfortable footwear
- Carry water and light snacks
- Elderly devotees should plan darshan timing carefully
Why Sholingur Temple Is Spiritually Unique
Unlike other Narasimha temples that emphasize power and protection, Sholingur teaches mastery over the self.
Here:
- Silence is the teacher
- Time is the blessing
- Liberation is immediate
It is not a temple you merely visit it is a temple you experience.
Final Reflection: 24 Minutes That Can Change a Lifetime
In a world rushing toward noise and distraction, Sholingur Temple invites you to pause just for one Ghatika.
- Sit.
- Breathe.
- Listen to the silence.