Kumbakonam is one of the oldest and holiest places in South India, held sacred by devotees of Lord Shiva and Lord Vishnu alike. This ancient town, located between Rivers Kaveri and Arasalar, is home to about 188 temples which are located in and around it.
Though the town dates back to the Sangam period, it came into prominence during the medieval Chola period in the 7th century AD and in the British period as the Cambridge of South India because of its many educational institutions. Kumbakonam is also well known for the Mahamagham festival which takes place once in 12 years.