Jambukeswarar Temple Thiruvanaikaval

Jambukeswarar Temple is situated in a suburb of Trichirapalli called Thiruvanaikaval. This temple is actually in an island surrounded by the river Kaveri and Kollidam.  

Lord Shiva, the presiding deity of this temple is called Jambukeswar and the goddess is Sri Akilandeswari. Shiva is in the form of Lingam and is considered as an embodiment of the element water. There is a freshwater spring underneath the Shiv Linga. It is revered as one of the Pancha-Bhoota Stalams. 

The temple was built by Kocengannan(Kochenga Chola), one of the Early Cholas, around 1,800 years ago. For more detailed description of the temple's origin and history, one can always Google.

The gopuram or the tower at the entrance of the temple looks very simple and unassuming. But once you enter the temple you will be amazed with the grandeur of the pillars and the sculptures.  Sri Jambukeshwara Temple has five concentric walls and seven gopurams. It is believed that this temple was also built around the same time Ranganathaswamy temple was built. 

There are numerous sculptures in this temple. Each pillar is decorated elaborately with sculptures. The four pillars which are found immediately after entering the temple are most exquisitely decorated.  The figure of nomadic gypsy with her palm leaves woven basket holds the onlooker spellbound.

Photography is allowed in this temple too! They charge Rs 30 per camera. Compared to SriRanganathaswamy temple of Srirangam this temple is very poorly maintained. The temple tank was locked and another big hall with many pillars was also locked when I visited this temple. HRCE people who maintain this temple have no business to lock any part of the temple and prevent the public from seeing them!