
Sarvatheertham Tank
A sacred tank in Kanchipuram, believed to be the confluence of all holy rivers, offering spiritual cleansing and housing numerous ancient Shiva Lingas...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere for reflection

Sarvatheertham Tank
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere for reflection
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred tank in Kanchipuram, believed to be the confluence of all holy rivers, offering spiritual cleansing and housing numerous ancient Shiva Lingas.
"A holy tank with immense spiritual significance, though cleanliness could be improved."

🙏 Respect the Sacredness
This is a holy site; be mindful of rituals and maintain cleanliness. Avoid littering.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Car parking can be difficult in the immediate vicinity. Plan your arrival accordingly.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Confluence of Sacred Rivers
Bathe in the holy waters believed to cleanse sins, a central belief for pilgrims visiting this sacred tank.

Ancient Shiva Lingas
Explore numerous ancient Shiva Lingas around the tank, each with unique mythological origins and worshipped by various deities and figures.

Ritual Performance Sites
Witness or participate in ancestral rituals performed on the banks of the tank, a significant practice for many devotees.
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Planning Your Visit
Understand the Sacred Significance
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Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🙏 Respect the Sacredness
This is a holy site; be mindful of rituals and maintain cleanliness. Avoid littering.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Car parking can be difficult in the immediate vicinity. Plan your arrival accordingly.
💧 Consider a Dip
Many believe bathing here washes away sins. If comfortable, partake in the ritual.
🚶 Explore the Lingas
Take time to discover the various Shiva Lingas around the tank, each with a unique story.
Tips
from all over the internet
🙏 Respect the Sacredness
This is a holy site; be mindful of rituals and maintain cleanliness. Avoid littering.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Car parking can be difficult in the immediate vicinity. Plan your arrival accordingly.
💧 Consider a Dip
Many believe bathing here washes away sins. If comfortable, partake in the ritual.
🚶 Explore the Lingas
Take time to discover the various Shiva Lingas around the tank, each with a unique story.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Sarvatheertham Tank is a deeply sacred site, revered as the confluence of all holy rivers and a place for ancestral rituals. Visitors are drawn to its spiritual significance and the numerous ancient Shiva Lingas surrounding it. However, concerns about cleanliness and maintenance are frequently mentioned, impacting the overall visitor experience.
"Sarva Theertha Kulam is a holy tank whose greatness has been explained in the Kanchi Puranam.
The Sarva Theertha Pond is the Sangaamam of All Sacred Rivers. The Sacred rivers established Lingas and worshipped the Lord. We find some of these Lingas around the SarvaTheertha Kulam. It is believed that people who bathed in this pond can wash away their sins. The rituals to their ancestors are performed in the banks of this pond.
1. GANGAADHEESWARAR
This temple is found in the eastern banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. The Shiva linga faces west. Gangaadheeswarar was worshipped by Ganga Devi and Varuna (God of Rain). By worshipping this Shivaa he the obtained the leadership of all forms of water and the water inhabitants. The Shiva linga was also called Varunaeswarar. The Linga has a square Aavudaiyar. Shiva faces west. This temple is a brick temple.
2. HANUMANDHEESWARAR
This temple is found in the eastern banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. The Shiva linga faces east. This Shiva linga was worshipped by Hanumaan.
3. YOGALINGAESWARAR
This temple is found in the eastern banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. The Shiva linga faces east. Worshipped by Swetha Brothers.
4. RAMAESWARAR
This temple is situated in the southern banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. This Shiva linga was worshipped by Rama. The Linga has a round Aavudaiyar.
5. SEETHAESWARAR
This temple is situated in the southern banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. This Shivaa was worshipped by Seetha. The Linga has a round Aavudaiyar.
6. LAKSHMANAESWARAR
This temple is situated in the southern banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. This Shivaa was worshipped by Lakshmana. The Linga has a round Aavudaiyar.
7. MALLIGARJUNAESWARAR
This temple is situated in the southern banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. The Shiva linga faces east. Worshipped by Arjuna of the Pandavas. This is a stone temple of the Pallavas. The Linga has a round Aavudaiyar.
8. THEERTHAESWARAR
This temple is situated in the western banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. The Shiva linga faces east. This Shivaa was worshipped by all the rivers in the world. The Linga has a round Aavudaiyar. All the Rivers worshipped this Shiva and entered into the Pond.
9.HIRANYAESWARAR
This temple is situated in the western banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. The Shiva linga faces east. The Shiva linga is 16 stripped linga. This linga was worshipped by Hiranya. This was the place where Hiranya, the Asura, obtained the boon by which he could not be killed by man, animals, in the earth or sky, any instrument, places hot and cold, inside or outside the house, at night or during the day. This boon was the cause for the Naraimha Avatar of Maha Vishnu. This Linga is a big Linga with Round Aavudaiyar.
10. KAAMAESWARAR
This temple is situated in the western banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. The Shiva linga faces east. This Shiva linga was worshipped by Manmadhan. This was the place where Manmadhan obtained the boon by which he could instigate and create love between sexes in all the 14 worlds. The Linga has a round Aavudaiyar. The Linga is a big Linga.
11. KAASI VISWANAADHAR
This temple is situated in the western banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. The Shiva linga faces east. Story that the Kaasi Viswanaadhar came to Kaanchi and stayed here considering this place more holy than kaasi. There are 2 more lingas kept in this temple which were found else where. This temple is a stone temple.
12.THAVANAESWARAR
This temple is situated in the northern banks of Sarva Theertha Kulam. The Shiva linga faces east. The Shiva linga was worshipped by frog.
13. SWETHERAESWARAR
This Linga was worshipped by Swetha Brothers. Linga has a round Aavudaiyar. The Linga is small and the temple is a brick temple. In ancient days Shiva, Veerabadharar, Vinayaka and Nandhi are found."
sreekanthnaidu gali
"Very beautiful but need to be maintained. Have potential for a tourist spot."
Manoj Mahur
"Temple is important. Car parking is difficult in this area"
Senthil Kumar V
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sarvatheertham Tank is located in Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu. It's accessible by road, and auto-rickshaws or local buses are common modes of transport within the city. If driving, be aware that parking can be challenging near the tank itself.
Yes, local buses and auto-rickshaws frequently ply to and from the vicinity of Sarvatheertham Tank, making it accessible for those relying on public transport.
The tank and surrounding temples are best explored on foot. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking around the tank's perimeter to see the various Lingas.
Sarvatheertham Tank is often visited in conjunction with other prominent temples in Kanchipuram, such as the Kanchi Kailasanathar Temple or the Ekambareswarar Temple, as they are relatively close.
Kanchipuram is generally a safe city for tourists. However, as with any public place, it's always advisable to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Sarvatheertham Tank is a public religious site, and typically there is no entry fee to access the tank itself or the surrounding temple structures. Donations are usually accepted.
As a sacred tank and temple complex, Sarvatheertham Tank is generally accessible from early morning until evening. Specific timings for individual shrines around the tank may vary.
Yes, performing rituals, especially ancestral rites, is a significant practice at Sarvatheertham Tank. You may find local priests available to assist with ceremonies.
Photography is usually permitted around the tank and for the exterior of the shrines. However, it's always best to check for specific signage or ask locals if photography is allowed inside any of the temples.
No, advance booking is not required for Sarvatheertham Tank as it is a public religious site. You can visit at your convenience during its accessible hours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Sarvatheertham Tank is revered as the confluence of all sacred rivers, believed to possess the power to wash away sins. It's also a place where many perform rituals for their ancestors.
The primary attractions are the holy tank itself and the numerous ancient Shiva Lingas situated on its banks, each with a unique mythological story, such as Gangaadheeswarar, Ramaeswarar, and Hiranyaeswarar.
Reviews suggest that while the site has immense potential, maintenance and cleanliness can be an issue, with some visitors noting pollution from rituals.
You can expect a spiritual and serene atmosphere, especially in the early mornings. It's a place of worship and ritual for many locals and pilgrims.
Basic facilities might be limited. It's advisable to carry your own water bottle and be prepared for limited amenities.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might not be many formal restaurants directly adjacent to the tank, you can find local eateries and street food vendors in the broader Kanchipuram area, especially near major temples.
Kanchipuram is famous for its traditional South Indian vegetarian cuisine, including delicious dosas, idlis, vadas, and the renowned Kanchipuram silk sarees are also a major draw. Don't miss trying the local filter coffee.
Yes, vegetarian food is widely available in Kanchipuram, as many restaurants and eateries cater to a predominantly vegetarian clientele due to religious sentiments.
Look for local 'mess' or 'thali' restaurants for an authentic and affordable South Indian meal. Many places offer a variety of rice dishes, curries, and accompaniments.
As with any tourist destination, exercise caution with street food. Opt for vendors who appear to maintain good hygiene.
📸 📸 Photography
The tank itself, especially during sunrise or sunset, offers beautiful reflections. The various Shiva Lingas and the surrounding temple architecture provide excellent photographic opportunities.
Generally, photography is allowed around the tank and for the exteriors of the shrines. However, always check for specific restrictions within temple premises.
The golden hours, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offer the most flattering light for capturing the serene beauty of the tank and its surroundings. Midday sun can be harsh.
The diverse collection of Shiva Lingas, each with its own story, and the rituals performed by devotees offer unique and culturally rich subjects for photography.
A standard DSLR or mirrorless camera with a versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) would be ideal. A wide-angle lens can be useful for capturing the expanse of the tank and its surroundings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Be prepared for potentially limited facilities, so carrying essentials like water, snacks, and hand sanitizer is advisable. The cleanliness of the tank area can vary, so supervising children closely and ensuring they don't touch potentially unhygienic surfaces is important. The spiritual atmosphere might be best appreciated by older children who can understand and respect the sanctity of the place.
🙏 Devout Pilgrims
Take your time to explore each of the Shiva Lingas surrounding the tank, as each has its own legend and devotional significance. The atmosphere, especially in the early mornings, is conducive to prayer and meditation. Be prepared for the possibility of crowds during auspicious days or festivals.
🏛️ History & Mythology Enthusiasts
Pay attention to the architectural styles of the smaller shrines, some of which are noted as being from the Pallava period. The stories behind the Lingas, such as Hiranyaeswarar's connection to the Narasimha Avatar, offer fascinating insights into the broader Hindu cosmology and the legends associated with Kanchipuram.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mythology of Sarvatheertham Tank's Lingas
The western bank features the intriguing Hiranyaeswarar Linga, associated with the Asura Hiranya who received a boon that ultimately led to the Narasimha Avatar. Nearby, Kaamaeswarar was worshipped by Manmadhan, the god of love. The presence of Kaasi Viswanaadhar is also noteworthy, with legends suggesting it's considered holier than its namesake in Varanasi by some. These stories add layers of spiritual significance to the site, making it a fascinating destination for those interested in Hindu mythology.
Exploring these shrines offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Shaivite traditions and the interconnectedness of various deities and legends within the Kanchipuram region. Each Linga, with its distinct architectural style and historical context, tells a part of the larger divine narrative associated with Sarvatheertham Tank.
Visitor Experiences and Maintenance Concerns
Despite these maintenance issues, the inherent spiritual significance and the unique presence of numerous ancient Shiva Lingas continue to draw visitors. Many appreciate the historical and mythological depth of the location, recognizing its potential for cultural tourism. The difficulty in finding parking near the tank is another practical challenge that visitors often encounter, suggesting a need for better infrastructure to support increased footfall.
There's a clear sentiment that with improved maintenance and better visitor management, Sarvatheertham Tank could significantly enhance its appeal as a tourist destination, allowing more people to appreciate its sacredness and historical value without compromising its sanctity.






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