India is dotted with sacred shrines and ancient temples that embody faith, legend, and spiritual resonance. Among these remarkable sites is the Marakatha Shiva Lingam Temple, a unique and mystical temple dedicated to Lord Shiva — whose primary deity is not an ordinary stone lingam but a rare Marakatha (Emerald) Shiva Lingam. Revered by devotees and increasingly recognized by travelers, this temple has a story that blends history, archaeology, devotion, and awe.
The Enigmatic Story Behind the Temple
The Marakatha Shiva Lingam Temple, also known as the Chandippa Sri Marakata Shivalinga Someshwara Swamy Temple, is located in the quiet village of Chandippa, in the Shankarpally Mandal of Ranga Reddy District, Telangana. It is roughly 35 km from Hyderabad city — a spiritual destination that many devotees visit especially during festival seasons and auspicious days.
What makes this temple exceptional is its centerpiece: a lingam believed to be carved from or containing Marakatha — the Sanskrit word for emerald. The greenish hue of the lingam has sparked fascination and devotion among visitors. Stories among devotees suggest that when light hits the lingam under certain conditions, especially during ritual ablutions (abhishekams), it reflects a distinct emerald glow — reinforcing the belief that this is no ordinary stone but something sacred and rare.
Discovery and Rediscovery
Historical records suggest the temple was originally built during the reign of Western Chalukya king Vikramaditya VI (1076–1126 AD), with inscriptions indicating the temple’s consecration around 23 October 1101 AD. At that time, generous land grants were made by royalty to ensure the temple’s rituals, maintenance, festivals, and community.
Over centuries, however, the temple’s prominence waned, and it fell into neglect. The rare lingam lay largely forgotten until the early 21st century, when a devotee named Naresh Kumar noticed an unusual greenish reflection during a routine abhishekam. Initially perceived as a mere curiosity, this reflection gradually revealed that the Shiva lingam was unlike any other.
Naresh Kumar’s article in the Andhra Bhoomi newspaper brought widespread attention to this discovery and galvanized devotees and historians alike. With community support, the temple underwent reconstruction and restoration around 2011–2012, reviving its rituals, festivals, and spiritual traditions. Today, this temple stands not only as a place of worship but also as a testament to rediscovered heritage.
Spiritual Beliefs and Ritual Importance
In Hindu philosophy, the Shiva lingam symbolizes the formless cosmic pillar of light — representing Shiva’s infinite nature and all-pervading presence. A lingam carved from or associated with marakatha (emerald) carries additional symbolic meanings. In Vedic tradition, emerald is connected with planet Budha, often associated with intelligence, learning, clarity, and inner harmony. Pujas performed on such a lingam are believed to confer spiritual insight, peace, and liberation.
Devotees visiting the Marakatha Shiva Lingam Temple often perform abhishekam (ritual bathing of the lingam) with water, milk, or sacred substances, followed by prayers and offerings. Many attest to experiences of serenity, inner peace, and transformative beliefs, and there are narratives about the lingam reflecting light in captivating ways — inspiring deep devotion among visitors.
Before entering the main shrine, many visitors pay respects to Kalabhairava Swamy and a divine serpent deity — believed to protect the sacred site and guard its spiritual energy.
Temple Location: Finding the Shrine
The Marakatha Shiva Lingam Temple is located in:
📍 Chandipp Village, Shankarpally Mandal, Ranga Reddy District, Telangana – 501203, India.
Here are key details:
- 🛕 Nearest major city: Hyderabad (approx. 35 km away)
- 🚗 Access: Easily reachable by road from Hyderabad or via Shankarpally. Shared autos, private taxis, or personal vehicles can cover the short distance from Shankarpally town.
- 🌏 Coordinates: Approximately 17.46277° N, 78.13333° E.
Its rural setting gives the temple a peaceful ambience, where devotees can reflect and pray without the noise of urban congestion.
Temple Timings and Visiting Hours
The Marakatha Shiva Lingam Temple is open to pilgrims and the general public most days of the week. Typical visiting hours are:
🕉️ 5:00 AM – 6:00 PM (as per travel guide listings).
Alternate listings suggest:
🕉️ 6:00 AM – 12:00 PM and 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM on all days.
These timings allow devotees to perform early morning prayers and abhishekams, which hold especial spiritual significance in Shaiva tradition. Early morning worship is believed to deepen peace and invite auspicious beginnings.
Best Time to Visit Marakatha Shiva Lingam Temple
Though the temple is open year-round, many pilgrims prefer to visit during Maha Shivaratri, the Great Night of Shiva — an annual festival that draws devotees from across India. The temple’s unique emerald lingam becomes a focal point of devotion during this festival season.
Additionally, some devotees believe that visiting the temple during specific lunar phases or during Kartik brings extra spiritual merit — aligning with customary Hindu pilgrimage practices.
A Growing Pilgrimage Spot
Though not widely known internationally yet, the Marakatha Shiva Lingam Temple has steadily gained popularity via social media, travel reviews, and devotional pilgrims sharing experiences. Many visitors report a profound sense of connection with Lord Shiva and a memorable experience of divine presence.
In a world where ancient temples often lie neglected or forgotten, the rediscovery and restoration of this temple stand as a beautiful reminder that spiritual treasures can endure centuries and find new life through the devotion of seekers.
Conclusion
The Marakatha Shiva Lingam Temple is more than a historic monument — it’s a living spiritual heritage site. Its rare emerald lingam, centuries-old roots, and rediscovery story combine faith and history into a compelling journey for pilgrims and curious travelers alike. Whether you visit for devotion, curiosity, or cultural interest, the temple offers a serene spiritual experience that has touched many hearts.
