Dawn On The Ganges (I)

This is the first of several images taken during the early morning in the Indian city of Varanasi (formerly known as Benares) on or near the Ganges River. During the pre-dawn hours on the banks of the river boats wait for tourists to go on a short trip during sunrise.

Dawn On The Ganges (II)

This is shot from a boat on the Ganges showing the activity on the river and on its shore as sunrise nears. These areas on shore are called 'ghats' and are steps leading down to the river on the western shore of the Ganges.

Dawn On The Ganges (III)

This is an image of the sunrise seen from the city looking across the Ganges river to the forested eastern bank of the river.

Dawn On The Ganges (IV)

A man is working hard as the sun rises, rowing a boat against the current on the Ganges River at the Indian city of Veranasi.

Dawn On The Ganges (V)

In this photo the sun rises above the eastern shore of the Ganges River as boats with tourists or people trying to sell things to tourists are on the river.

Dawn On The Ganges (VI)

This is a photo of a tourist boat on the Ganges River with the waterfront of the city of Varanasi behind it.

Dawn On The Ganges (VII)

A tourist boat a bit later in the morning as the sun is now rising higher and breaking through the dawn haze.

Dawn On The Ganges (VIII)

The sun has now risen above the eastern shore of the Ganges River. On the river's western bank followers of the Hindu religion have come to bathe in the river's waters and to offer respect to the risen sun.

Dawn On The Ganges (IX)

Another group bathes in the river's waters and offers respect to the sun.

Dawn On The Ganges (X)

The sun is shining brightly now above the river and the city of Varanasi. Above the river a man salutes the risen sun while doing yoga as another man accompanies him.