August 17: A Beautiful Day in Rishikesh

Even after the 11 hour drive the day before, our first day in Rishikesh began quite early. We were up with the sunrise and listened and watch the devout and faithful walk to the temples to perform their morning aarti (chants and rituals).






The monkeys get chased away all day long, but this early in the morning they were enjoying themselves near the restaurant at our hotel.





After breakfast, Keith and I took a two and a half hour walk around Rishikesh. Really cool!

Very cute monkey guarding Laxman Jhula bridge. You'll recognize the Gita Bhawan temple in the background from the picture on my blog.

Crossing Laxman Jhula, one of two suspension bridges over the Ganges in Rishikesh.

Bathing in the Ganges River.

Shopping in one of the Rishikesh markets.













Hanging with the cows!

Divine Resort: Our room was on the 3rd floor (think 4th level up - ground, 1st, 2nd, 3rd)

In the picture below: Our hotel as seen from the other side of the Ganges River. We were VERY far up!