Swetaganga Tank or Pushkarini is recognized as one of the five sacred teerthas of Shrikhetra, located in the southeast direction of Shrimandir. It is believed that the sin incurred from stepping on Mahaprasad can be absolved by immersing one’s feet in the tank. Additionally, Gangamata Matha is located adjacent to the tank.
History of the Swetaganga Tank
As per the Skanda Purana, King Sweta, a devoted follower of Mahaprabhu, conducted a significant Yajna, during which Devi Ganga emerged from the Yajna Kunda upon its conclusion. This event led to the site being named Sweta Ganga. Temples dedicated to the Matsya Avatar of Vishnu and King Sweta are located on the banks of the tank. According to the Mahabharat, Swetaganga was created from the nail of Lord Vishnu. The Madala Panji records that the king constructed a boundary wall and stairs leading to the tank. On the banks of Sweta Ganga, there exists a temple dedicated to Madhaba, known as Matsya Madhaba and Sweta Madhaba.
Other sacred tanks in Puri include
- Indradyumna Tank: Located on the northwest side of the Gundicha temple, this tank is famous for its religious importance and connection to Lord Krishna
- Markandeya Tank: A holy place where God saved Sage Markandeya from danger at sea
Location of the Swetaganga Tank at Puri
Located to the west of the Jagannath Temple, between the Lions Gate and Swargadwar
Significance



Read also…