Singaperumal Koil Narasimha

Ugra Narasimha inside the cave
The 1500 year old temple near Madras is believed to be one of the several cave temples built by the Pallavas

Located about 50 kms South of Madras is the cave temple of Padalathri Narasimha at Singaperumal Koil that finds a mention in the Brahmmanda Purana.

The temple is said to be one among the several cave temples built by the Pallavas. A rock carving at this temple refers to a donation given to this temple around 500 century AD. Hence, this temple can be said to be at least 1500 years old and can be called as a Puraana Sthalam.
(Pallava King Mahendra Varma (580-630AD) had built about ten cave temples during his time)

The Story
During the Narasimha Avataaram time, this place was said to be a big forest. It is believed that Japali Rishi undertook penance at this place and had darshan of the Lord, after the killing of Hiranyakashipu. Given the timing, the Lord here is seen in an angry posture as Ugra Narasimha.

To the North East of the main deity is the Lakshmi Narasimha Sannidhi, who is said to cool the ‘Ugra Narasimha’. Every Pradhosham, special poojas are conducted for the Pradhosha deity.The temple tank, found east of the temple, is said to be full through the year.While Azhvaars have not praised this temple, the Goddess here is the same as the one in Ahobilam (Ahobila Valli).

Quick Facts

Moolavar : Padalathri (Ugra) Narasimha Sitting Posture with Goddess Lakshmi in his chest
Goddess   : Ahobila Valli Thaayar
Utsavar    : Prahalada Varadar with a maze in his left hand
Time        : 7am-12noon and 4pm-830pm
Priest       : V. Gopalakrishna Bhattar @93801 14686 / 044 2746 4441

Festivals 
Brahmotsavam in Vaikasi
Pavitrotsavam in Aavani
Davana Utsavam in Maasi

How to reach Singaperumal Koil
All Sub-Urban Trains from Chennai Beach –Chengalpet stop at Singaperumal Koil Station. (Trains once every hour).Autos charge Rs. 30 from Station to the temple(a distance of less than a km).

New Deluxe buses have been introduced between Chennai city and Chengalpet.
Buses Stop in front of the Temple.These buses are quite comfortable to travel in.