Thiruvanaikaval

Thiruvanaikaval is a well-known Shiva temple in Trichy. The temple was built by Kochengat Cholan, a Chola King who later became one of the 63 Nayanmars. This temple which is around 2000 years old is situated near Srirangam. Thiruvanaikaval is one of the Panchabhoota Sthalams comprising of five Shiva Temples of Tamil Nadu representing the five natural elements. This temple embodies the element of water. The sanctum of Jambukeswara has an underground water stream which is forever flowing with water. It is one of the 275 Paadal Petra Sthalams. Inscriptions from the Chola era can be seen in this temple. One time, Parvati ridiculed Shiva when He was in penance. Shiva denounced Her act and ordered Her to go to the Earth and do penance. Parvathi in the form of Akilandeswari as said by Shiva came to Jambu forest (Thiruvanaikoil) to perform her penance. Click here to read more…