Cleanse Yourself in the Ganges

By Hugh Finlay

An unforgettable part of India is absorbing the mystical culture. For devout Hindus, a dawn dip in the holy Ganges River washes away all sins; for visitors, the spectacle opens a window onto the spirit of India. Silently glide in a small boat along the river as you observe people undertaking a very private ritual in a very public place. Organizing a boat is simple—get down to the river ghats (steps) just before dawn and there'll be no shortage of men ready to row you along the river for a couple hours. As always, bargaining is essential.

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