About Brahma Sarovar
Brahma Sarovar is a large ancient sacred water tank located in Thanesar, Kurukshetra, Haryana. Believed to be created by Lord Brahma and associated with the Mahabharata era, it is one of the most revered pilgrimage sites in Kurukshetra. The rectangular tank features a central Sarveshwar Mahadev Temple connected by a bridge, ghats, and illuminated pathways. It attracts pilgrims and tourists, especially during solar eclipses and the Gita Jayanti festival.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect a vast rectangular sacred water tank with stone ghats, paved walkways and illuminated pathways surrounding clear water. In the centre, the Sarveshwar Mahadev Temple sits on a small island connected by a bridge. The setting is open and serene, with shrines, statues, and viewing platforms around the perimeter. Visitors can walk around the sarovar, take photographs, observe rituals and holy dips, and attend the evening light and sound show.
Key highlights
- 01
One of the largest man-made sacred tanks in Asia, measuring approximately 3600 ft long and 1500 ft wide
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Sarveshwar Mahadev Temple located on a small island in the centre of the sarovar, accessible by a bridge
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Sacred bathing ghats believed to be auspicious, especially during solar eclipses
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Evening light and sound show narrating the history of Kurukshetra and the Mahabharata
- 05
Birla Gita Mandir and statues located on the northern bank of the sarovar
History of Brahma Sarovar
Brahma Sarovar is traditionally believed to have been created by Lord Brahma. It is associated with King Kuru, ancestor of the Kauravas and Pandavas, who is said to have ploughed the land of Kurukshetra here. The tank finds mention in ancient texts including the Mahabharata and is considered the cradle of the Bhagavad Gita's land. The present ghats and structures have been renovated by various rulers over centuries.
Culture & Context
The sarovar is a major Hindu pilgrimage centre. Bathing in its waters, especially during solar eclipses and on Somavati Amavasya, is considered highly meritorious. It is the focal point of the annual Gita Jayanti celebrations in Kurukshetra, attracting devotees from across India. The central Sarveshwar Mahadev Temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is an important place of worship for visitors.