The Jambukeswarar Temple at Thiruvanaikaval represents the element water (Appu) among the five Pancha Bhoota Sthalams of Lord Shiva.
Significance
The lingam in the sanctum sits over an underground spring, and water continuously seeps up around it — which is why the temple is associated with water. The name comes from the jambu (naaval) tree, and the town’s name recalls a legend of an elephant (aanai) that worshipped Shiva here.
The temple is also a major shrine of Goddess Akilandeswari, who is believed to have worshipped Shiva here in penance.
Visiting
Thiruvanaikaval is covered on our Srirangam – Samayapuram tour and the Pancha Bhoota Sthalam tour.
