JAMBUKESHWARA TEMPLE

 Website: Jambukeswarar Temple, Thiruvanaikaval - Wikipedia 

 Source:  Jambukeswarar Temple : Pancha Bhoota Sthalam 

In Jambukeswarar temple, Thiruvanaikaval, Tamil Nadu, Lord Shiva is said to have manifested Himself as water (Neer) element. The presiding deities here are Lord Jambukeshwarar (Lord Shiva) with His consort Goddess Akilandeswari (Goddess Parvati).

The major part of the Lingam in this temple is submerged underwater, and hence it is called “Appu Lingam” or Lingam of water. Subsequently, this temple is also venerated as ‘Appu Sthalam.’ This Lingam of Lord Shiva is said to be “Swayambhu”, meaning ‘self-manifested’.

As Lord Siva is believed to be seated below Jambu tree in this pilgrimage, the temple got its name Jambukeswaram. It is also called `Upadesha sthala` as the shrines of Lord Shiva, and Goddess Parvati are seen facing each other following a legend. As an elephant was blessed after worshipping at this hallowed place, this temple came to be known as ‘Thiruvanaikka’.