Rajahmundry is a historical place in the South Indian state Andhra Pradesh. This place is about 581 km by rail from Chennai on the way to Kolkata. It is on the beautiful banks of the Godavari River. The ancient temples dedicated to Lords Markandeya and Kotilingeswara are also found here. This is a prominent pilgrim spot.

According to the legends, it is believed that once a pious couple prayed to Lord Shiva for a son here in Rajahmundry. Being happy with their devotion, the Lord asked them to choose between an erudite son with a short span of life and a nitwit with of course a long life. They wisely opted for the first one. Their wish was granted and Markandeya was born to them. Markandeya was supposed to live only for 16 years. Since his childhood, he was an ardent devotee of Lord Shiva. He pleased the Lord with his ardent devotion. As Markandeya attained the age of 16 years, Lord Yama came to take him away. The boy got frightened to see him and hugged the Shiva Linga with great faith. The Yama then threw one end of his rope and tried to take him away forcibly along with the Shiva Linga. At his, Lord Shiva was angered and he appeared before Yama and kicked him away with his holy legs. Yama then prayed to Shiva and said that he was doing his duty only. Then Lord Siva pardoned Lord Yama and declared that the child Markandeya will remain 16 years of age forever. Thus Markandeya became an immortal.

Rajamundry is also well known for being the centre for the manufacture of carpets and sandalwood articles.