Thiruvanaikaval Jambukeshwar, Tamil Nadu

The Jambukeshwar temple is located in Thiruvanaikaval, an important religious town in
Tamil Nadu. The temple is part of the 5 Shiva temples known as Pancha-bhuta-sthalam, where
each temple is dedicated to the 5 basic elements (fire, water, air, ether & earth). Thiruvanaikaval
is the Jala sthalam i.e, it represents water. The temple and its main deity – Jambukeshwar, is
praised in several Thevaram (Ancient Tamil devotional songs) composed by Nayanmars (Tamil
Shaiva saints).

Legend
Once Pārvatī came to Thiruvanaikaval, on the banks of river Kaveri for performing penance.
She wanted to worship Shiva so She went to the river, and made a Shivalingam of water. She
completed her devotional practice by taking the form of Akhilandeswari Amma. Impressed with
her devotion and dedication, Shiva bestowed her with Shiva-jñāna (the knowledge of Shiva –
supreme consciousness).

Architecture of Thiruvanaikaval Jambukeshwar, Tamil Nadu

The temple was built by Chola kings throughout several centuries of their rule. The famous
gopuram - elaborate gateways of the temple were constructed by the Hoyasala dynasty. The
temple has 5 layers that encircle the main shrine. Being the representation of
water, the Shivalingam in this temple is always surrounded by water due to an underground
perennial stream.

How to reach Thiruvanaikaval Jambukeshwar, Tamil Nadu?