Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple

Stambheshwar Mahadev Temple is a Hindu Shiva temple located at Kavi Kamboi village in Jambusar Taluka, Bharuch District, Gujarat, at the confluence of the Mahi River and the Arabian Sea. It is notable as a tidal temple that submerges completely during high tide and re-emerges during low tide twice daily. The small coastal shrine houses a 4-foot Shiva lingam and is associated with legends from the Skanda Purana.

Visitors can expect a small, simple coastal Shiva temple situated on the beach flats at the Mahi Sagar Sangam where the river meets the Arabian Sea. The temple is surrounded by open sea, sand and mudflats. During low tide the temple is accessible on foot and visitors can enter the sanctum to see the Shiva lingam and offer prayers. During high tide the temple submerges under seawater and cannot be accessed. The setting is natural and tidal, with views of the sea, beach and estuary.

According to local tradition and the Skanda Purana, the Shiva lingam was installed by Kartikeya (son of Lord Shiva) after slaying the demon Tarakasura to atone for the sin of killing a demon who was a great devotee of Shiva. The present temple structure is believed to be about 150 years old, though the site is considered ancient.

The temple is a revered Shiva pilgrimage site, particularly significant during the holy month of Shravan, Maha Shivratri and on Amavasya and Purnima. Devotees believe darshan during low tide when the lingam is revealed is auspicious. The daily submergence and emergence is viewed as a ritual abhishek by the sea.