Kumbh Mela, Haridwar, Apr 2010

Kumbh Mela, was held in Haridwar, Uttarakhand. North India between January 14th to April 28th, 2010. The purna Kumbh Mela takes place once in twelve years and is one of the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The Kumbh Mela with its swirling crowds can be as physically daunting as it is spiritually fulfilling for those who believe in it . Thousands of pilgrims, mostly Hindus, flocked to Haridwar for the snan (holy dip). The Maha Kumbh Mela ('Great' Kumbh Mela) comes after a cyle of twelve 'Purna Kumbh Melas' which is after every 144 years and is held at Allahabad, UP. The 2001, Maha Kumbh Mela was attended by around 60 million people, making it the largest gathering anywhere in the world.

Ladies carry Ganga-Jal (water) in pots of all shapes and size as the holy river Ganga water is considered special.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Like the story of Prahlad, children sometimes carry their parents to Kumbh Mela, Haridwar so that they can take a drip in the holy Ganga and wash away any sins in their life.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Crowds pour in on foot and any vehicle that comes to the outskirts of the city of Haridwar for the Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Ladies resting on the streets in the baking Sun as crowds pour in on foot and any vehicle that comes to the outskirts of the city of Haridwar for the Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Crowds pour in on foot and any vehicle that comes to the outskirts of the city of Haridwar for the Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Police having a challenging task of controlling the mobs of people pouring into the city. Barricades were put up and snaking queues were setup leading to the ghats of river Ganga, in Haridwar.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Police having a challenging task of controlling the mobs of people pouring into the city. Barricades were put up and snaking queues were setup leading to the ghats of river Ganga, in Haridwar.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Procession of monks lead the way to the holy river Ganga.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Procession of monks lead the way to the holy river Ganga.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Procession of Naga sadhus arrives. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Procession of Naga sadhus arrives. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
With the beating of drums and on horses and other vehicles arrives the procession of Naga sadhus who as per tradition have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Shahi Snan in Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
With the beating of drums and on horses and other vehicles arrives the procession of Naga sadhus who as per tradition have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Shahi Snan in Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
With the beating of drums and on horses and other vehicles arrives the procession of Naga sadhus who as per tradition have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Shahi Snan in Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
With the beating of drums and on horses and other vehicles arrives the procession of Naga sadhus who as per tradition have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Shahi Snan in Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Naga sadhus (naked to sky holy monks) walk with great fan fare & beating of drums in a procession to the ghats. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela's Shahi Snan (royal bath).

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Naga sadhus (naked to sky holy monks) walk with great fan fare & beating of drums in a procession to the ghats. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela's Shahi Snan (royal bath).

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Naga sadhus (naked to sky holy monks) walk with great fan fare & beating of drums in a procession to the ghats. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela's Shahi Snan (royal bath).

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Naga sadhus (naked to sky holy monks) walk with great fan fare & beating of drums in a procession to the ghats. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela's Shahi Snan (royal bath).

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
kumbh mela Haridwar Kumbh Mela Festival biggest religious gathering banks of river Ganga pilgrims Hindu Hindus religious bath snan wash sins auspicious millions Jan 14 April 28 2010 shahi snan royal baths devotees river banks UK Uttarakhand North India
One of the Naga sadhus (naked to sky holy monks) asked for our mineral water bottle to quench his thirst. People around took it as a blessing to offer water to the Sadhus. The sadhus walk barefoot in the heat with great fan fare & beating of drums in a procession to the ghats. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela's Shahi Snan (royal bath).

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
The pace of walking, almost running increases at the procession of Naga sadhus arrives at the Har Ki Pauri ghat in Haridwar. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
The pace of walking, almost running increases at the procession of Naga sadhus arrives at the Har Ki Pauri ghat in Haridwar. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Hundreds of thousand of people line both the sides of the about 5 kms walk and receive blessings from the Naga Sadhus (Hindu naked medicants).

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Naga sadhus (naked monks who have renounced everything including cloths) of various akhadas (groups) arrive in sequence to the Har Ki Pauri ghat of river Ganga at Haridwar. Procession of Naga sadhus arrives. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Naga sadhus (naked monks who have renounced everything including cloths) of various akhadas (groups) arrive in sequence to the Har Ki Pauri ghat of river Ganga at Haridwar. Procession of Naga sadhus arrives. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Naga sadhus (naked monks) jump into the river ganga with frenzy. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Naga sadhus (naked monks) jump into the river ganga with frenzy. As per tradition, the Naga sadhu's have the first right of bathing in the holy Ganga on the occasion of Kumbh Mela.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
kumbh mela Haridwar Kumbh Mela Festival biggest religious gathering banks of river Ganga pilgrims Hindu Hindus religious bath snan wash sins auspicious millions Jan 14 April 28 2010 shahi snan royal baths devotees river banks UK Uttarakhand North India
Various groups of monks arrive at Har Ki Pauri, Hardwar for the holy bath on the auspicious shahi snan day.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Various groups of monks arrive at Har Ki Pauri, Hardwar for the holy bath on the auspicious shahi snan day.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Various groups of monks arrive at Har Ki Pauri, Hardwar for the holy bath on the auspicious shahi snan day.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Various ghats packed with people taking a dip in the holy Ganga river in Haridwar.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Crowds arriving and departing both at the same time turn the city of Haridwar into a jam packed town with most roads closed off and just sea of humanity moving slowly on foot in various directions.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Crowds arriving and departing both at the same time turn the city of Haridwar into a jam packed town with most roads closed off and just sea of humanity moving slowly on foot in various directions.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Side activities, discourses and other religious-related events at Haridwar.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Crowds arriving and departing both at the same time turn the city of Haridwar into a jam packed town with most roads closed off and just sea of humanity moving slowly on foot in various directions.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Crowds arriving and departing both at the same time turn the city of Haridwar into a jam packed town with most roads closed off and just sea of humanity moving slowly on foot in various directions.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Crowds arriving and departing both at the same time turn the city of Haridwar into a jam packed town with most roads closed off and just sea of humanity moving slowly on foot in various directions.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Lady looking a bit lost. Many people get lost in the crowds and constant announcements on speakers across the city help bring them together. Particularly difficult for old people in this maddening crowd.
Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious bangles banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela lady millions pilgrims red religious river banks royal baths sare shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins yellow
People from all over, particularly old people come to take the holy dip in the Ganga.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Various holy men come to Haridware for the Kumbh Mela and display their various "skills" and "powers".

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Various holy men come to Haridware for the Kumbh Mela and display their various "skills" and "powers".

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Side activities, discourses and other religious-related events at Haridwar.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Taking a quick nap on the streets - literally any small area of land where there is no foot fall.

Various holy men come to Haridware for the Kumbh Mela and display their various "skills" and "powers".

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Seeking blessings.
Naga sadhus (naked monks) renounce everything including cloths and rub ash and mud on their bodies. They live only in prayers. Typically with a dhuni (fireplace) in front and chilam (pipe with hashish) they spend time in prayers and meditation. arrives. During Kumbh Mela, the Naga sadhus bless those who come to them.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Naga sadhus (naked monks) renounce everything including cloths and rub ash and mud on their bodies. They live only in prayers. Typically with a dhuni (fireplace) in front and chilam (pipe with hashish) they spend time in prayers and meditation. arrives. During Kumbh Mela, the Naga sadhus bless those who come to them.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela millions pilgrims religious river banks royal baths shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
The monks demonstrate various physical feats and mystical abilities. This naga monk from Haryana blessing a pilgrim after he demonstrated the Lingam Kriya (Penis Feat) where he has another monk stand on a stick held by wraping his penis. It is a way to demonstrate that the tool has strenght & power but not for any sexual activity as the naga monks have renounced the world. Viewing this, I feel that a lot goes by faith and belief.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Haryana Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees hindu kumbh mela medicant millions monk pilgrims religious river banks royal baths sadhu shahi snan snan uttarakhand wash sins
Naga sadhus (naked monks) renounce everything including cloths and rub ash and mud on their bodies. They live only in prayers. Typically with a dhuni (fireplace) in front and chilam (pipe with hashish) they spend time in prayers and meditation. arrives. During Kumbh Mela, the Naga sadhus bless those who come to them.

Kumbh Mela is the biggest religious gatherings on the planet which takes places on the banks of the river Ganga. The number of pilgrims this year is expected to exceed around five million since the first day Jan 14 till the time it concludes on April 28, 2010. The auspicious days of the shahi snan or royal baths usually draw hundreds of thousands of devotees to the Har Ki Paudi and other banks of the river. Uttarakhand. North India. The occasion draws pilgrims from around the world and severly overloads the infrastructure so most of the city is shut down for any vehicles other than security or emergency services so a sea of humanity walks through the city to get to the bathing ghats.
2010 April 28 Haridwar Hindus Jan 14 Kumbh Mela Festival North India UK ash auspicious banks of river Ganga bath biggest religious gathering devotees dust hindu kumbh mela malal naga millions mud naga sadhu naked pilgrims religious river banks royal baths rudrakash sand shahi snan smeared snan uttarakhand wash sins white hair