Thiruvanaikoil / Jambukeshwar Temple, Srirangam - Timings, Festivals, History, Darshan, Pooja Timings

About Thiruvanaikoi l/ Jambukeshwar Temple

At a distance of 2.5 km from Srirangam Temple and 11 km from Trichy Railway Junction, Thiruvanaikaval, also known as Jambukeshwar Temple, is a Hindu temple located in Srirangam. Dedicated to Lord Shiva, it is one of the five major Shiva Temples of Tamil Nadu known as Panchabhoota Sthalas representing element of water. The sanctum has Shiva Lingam in the form of Appu lingam (water lingam). The sanctum of Lord Jambukeshwar has an underground water stream and one can see water coming out of that stream all the time. The presiding goddess is Devi Akilandeshwari Amman. It is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams of Lord, and among the must include places in Srirangam tour packages.

History of Thiruvanaikoil / Jambukeshwar Temple

Sri Jambukeshwar Temple was established by Kochengon Chola, a prominent figure among the Early Cholas, over 1800 years ago. This ruler is credited with the construction of 70 other Shiva temples throughout Tamil Nadu and he is recognized as one of the 63 Nayannmars. The Thiruvanaikoil temple was constructed in accordance with the principles of 'Saiva Aagama Sasthra', which posits that the temple symbolizes the human body, with the idol of Lord Shiva representing the soul. Subsequent renovations of the temple were carried out by various kings, including the Pandiyas and the Nayakars of Madurai. The second and third praharams were completed in the 13th century AD, while the fourth praharam was built towards the end of the same century. There are a number of inscriptions from different Chola Kings from the 11-12th century that indicates grants given to the temple. The temple was subject to conquest by the French and the English during the 18th century. However, they were well maintained by Vellalars and Nattukottai Chettiars during the 19th and 20th centuries.

Mythology of Thiruvanaikoil / Jambukeshwar Temple

Thiruvanaikaval Temple is recognized as an 'Upadesa Sthalam' due to the fact that Goddess Akhilandeshwari received teachings from Arulmigu Jambukeshwarar in this temple. According to legend, Goddess Parvathi undertook penance in the form of Akilandeshwari in the Jambu forest. She fashioned the lingam from the waters of the Kaveri River, placed it beneath the Venn Naaval tree that emerged from Saint Jambu, and began her worship. So, the Lingam is known as 'Appu Lingam' (Water Lingam). Lord Shiva at last gave darshan to Akilandeshwari and taught her Siva Gnana. Thus, Thiruvanaikaval Temple is esteemed as an 'Upadesa Sthalam'. As Akilandeswari worshipped Lord Shiva in this temple, even today at noon the priest dresses like a female and does Pooja to Lord Shiva and 'Gow Maatha' (Cow). This noon pooja is very famous and pilgrims wait for this pooja every day.

As per the Sthala Purana, there were two Siva Ganas named Malyavan and Pushpadanta, who were perpetually at odds with one another. In a particularly fierce altercation, Malyavan cursed Pushpadanta to transform into an elephant, while Pushpadanta retaliated by cursing Malyavan to become a spider. Both the elephant and the spider eventually arrived at Jambukeshwaram, where they continued their devotion to Shiva. The elephant would fetch water from the Cauvery River to perform Abhishekam on the lingam beneath the Jambu tree each day, while the spider spun a web over the lingam to shield it from falling leaves and direct sunlight. Mistaking the web for dirt, the elephant would clean the lingam daily, which infuriated the spider. In revenge, the spider entered the elephant's trunk and bit it, resulting in their demise. Moved by their steadfast devotion, Shiva, in the form of Jambukeshwar, freed them from their curses. As an elephant worshipped the Lord at this site, it became known as 'Thiru Aanai Kaa' (Thiru - Holy, Aanai - Elephant, Kaa - Forest), which later evolved into Thiruvanaikoil.

Architecture of Thiruvanaikoil/Jambukeshwar Temple

Built in Dravidian architectural style, the Thiruvanaikoil Temple is very close to the Ranganathaswamy Temple of Srirangam in terms of architecture. This temple spans an area of approximately 18 acres and features a square layout comprising five enclosures. The outer wall surrounding the fifth precinct, known as Vibudi Prakara, rises to a height of 25 meters and extends over a mile in length. The fourth enclosure houses a hall supported by 796 pillars, alongside a small tank replenished by natural springs. The third enclosure is notable for its two gopuras, one measuring 73 feet and the other 100 feet in height. The second enclosure contains an additional gopura that stands 65 feet tall, along with several smaller shrines.

Within the final enclosure lies the sanctum, which houses the Appu lingam. The entrance to the sanctum sanctorum is notably modest, measuring only 4 feet in height and 2.5 feet in width. A distinctive aspect of this temple is the continuous flow of a natural underground stream that encircles the Lingam. The complex also features the Akilandeswari Shrine, dedicated to Goddess Parvati. In this temple, Lord Shiva is positioned facing west, while Goddess Akilandeswari faces east, symbolizing the belief that Parvati received teachings from her guru, Lord Shiva. Consequently, unlike other Shiva temples, there is no 'Thiru Kalyanam' (marriage) ceremony conducted for the divine couple in this temple.

Numerous smaller shrines are located within the temple, honoring deities such as Lord Murugan, Lord Ganapathi, Raja Rajeswarar, Sangareswarar, Dakshinamoorthy (Guru Bahavan), Lakshmi, Natarajar, and the 63 Nayannmars. The temple complex also includes various mandapams, such as the 1000 Pillar Mandapam, which resembles a chariot, as well as the 100 Pillar Mandapam, Vasanta Mandapam, Somaskandha Mandapam, Nataraja Mandapam, and Trimurthi Mandapam, among others. Additionally, the temple is home to nine sacred Theerthams, each revered for its sanctity.

Festivals of Thiruvanaikoil/Jambukeshwar Temple

Maha Shivaratri in February / March, Panguni Brahmmotsavam in March / April and Aadi Pooram in July /August are the major festivals that are celebrated with great pomp and fervor in Thiruvanaikoil temple. Other main festivals are Vasanta Utsavam, Karthigai Deepam, Margazhi Thiruvathirai Utsavam, Pancha Prakara, etc.

Dress Code & Other Restrictions of Thiruvanaikoil/Jambukeshwar Temple

The Sri Jambukeshwar Temple in Srirangam doesn't have a specific dress code. However, it is recommend wearing traditional clothing and avoiding casual wear. Men may opt for dhotis or long trousers paired with shirts, while women are encouraged to wear Sarees, Salwar Kameez, or other traditional attire that adequately covers their shoulders and legs. Shorts, mini-skirts, middies, sleeveless tops, low-waist jeans and short-length T-shirts are not allowed.

Although non-Hindus are generally permitted to visit the Jambukeshwar Temple to admire its architectural beauty and serene atmosphere, they are usually restricted from entering the sanctum sanctorum.

Thiruvanaikoil/Jambukeshwar Temple Timings

Monday: 6 AM - 1 PM, & 3 PM - 8:30 PM
Tuesday: 6 AM - 1 PM, & 3 PM - 8:30 PM
Wednesday: 6 AM - 1 PM, & 3 PM - 8:30 PM
Thursday: 6 AM - 1 PM, & 3 PM - 8:30 PM
Friday: 6 AM - 1 PM, & 3 PM - 8:30 PM
Saturday: 6 AM - 1 PM, & 3 PM - 8:30 PM
Sunday: 6 AM - 1 PM, & 3 PM - 8:30 PM

Thiruvanaikoil/Jambukeshwar Temple Entry Fee

General Entry is Free
Special Darshan available for Rs. 10 & Rs. 25

Best Time to Visit Thiruvanaikoil/Jambukeshwar Temple

The optimal period for visiting Jambukeshwar Temple is from October to March, coinciding with the cooler months. This timeframe typically presents pleasant weather, facilitating a comfortable experience while exploring the temple grounds and engaging in rituals and celebrations. Attending significant festivals such as Maha Shivaratri or Panguni Brahmotsavam can enhance your visit, offering a rich cultural atmosphere filled with special prayers, processions, and elaborate decorations. It is advisable to refrain from visiting Thiruvanaikoil during the monsoon season and summer, as the region experiences heavy rainfall and high temperatures, which may impede your exploration.

How to Reach Thiruvanaikoil/Jambukeshwar Temple

Sri Jambukeshwar Temple in Srirangam is situated 11 kilometers from Trichy that has regular flight, train and bus connectivity with all the cities, and towns in Tamil Nadu. The temple is easily accessible by road and plenty of local town buses and auto-rickshaws, cabs available from Trichy.