Jambukeswara Temple also known as Thiruvanaikaval / Thiruvanaikal / Jambukeswaram is a famous Pancha Maha Bhuta Shiva temples in the Tiruchirapalli of Tamil Nadu, on the banks of river Caveri. It represents the Water element.
The beautifully carved huge temple was built by Kochenga Cholain the 3rd century. The Garbha Sthalam where the Shivalinga can be is under ground and the an underground stream called Sreemath Theertham of the Narmada river keeps dripping water on the Shivalingam.
According to legend, Once Devi Parvati mocked Shiva for His Tapasya ( penance) for the betterment of the world. As a punishment Shiva asked her to go to the earth and to do penance. Parvathi went to the Jambu forest (Thiruvanaikoil) to do penance. She made a Shivalinga out of the water of river Cauvery and started her worship under the Venn Naaval tree. Pleased with Her worship Siva appeared and taught her Siva Gyana. Parvati is worshipped here as Akilandeshwari.
Festivals:
Maha Shivaratri is a major festival.
Vaikasi – Vasantha Urchavam (10 days)
Aadi – Aadipuram festival (10 days),Aadi Friday is celebrated.
Purattasi – Navarathiri festival (10 days)
Thai – Thai Poosam, Thai theppam (Float) festival Special poojas are performed during Fridays of Thai month.
Panguni – Brahmotchavam (40 days)
Timings: 5.30 am to 1pm and 3pm to 9pm.
Things to visit nearby.
The Sri Ranganatha Swami temple 1.5 km away is a very famous ancient Vishnu temple.
How to Reach:
By Air: The Trichy Airport is 15 km from the temple.
By Train: The Trichy railway station 8 km from the temple is well connected with most major cities.
By Bus: The temple is located at a distance of 8 km from the central bus stand and at a distance of about 3 km from the Chathiram bus stand of trichy. Many regular buses from most of the cities of Tamil Nadu are available.
Accommodation: Trichi nearby has all types of accommodation from budget to 5 star hotels.
