I realise that the attention given to "people-watching" and the significance or holiness of the river often far outweigh the attention of the physical river itself. In fact, my first impression (view from Hotel Alka) of the river was not too favourable. To me (at that moment), it just looks like a normal (polluted) river with people bathing in it. I actually doubted myself on me travelling distances for this. But after my first sunrise along the Ganges, my view changed immensely.

It is probably a no-brainer to decide if sunrise or sunset is the better way to enjoy Great Mother. Sunrise will definitely win hands down since Old City faces the east. Thus, the river is well shielded (from the sun) by the city during sunset. I woke up at 5am in the morning and opened the door to my balcony. What was presented simply took me off guard (in a pleasant way, unlike the heat). As the sun started rising, pilgrims were simply getting ready for their usual morning bath or a peaceful meditation session. In here, there were none of those city hassles, noise, pollution or stress. Nothing was disturbed unnecessary; the environment was all too serene. To be frank, I wish the world should go back to this state.

After fighting the urge to pray that time will stop at that particular moment, I left my guesthouse and started taking pictures of the morning life along Ganges. It seems like I was like a young boy in a candy stall. Almost all pictures turned out great (or so I thought). Maybe I was simply inspired by what Great Mother can give me. Whatever the case, although I was badly missing home, I believe that the trip here was well worth the troubles (if any).