The Ganges, and many of its tributaries, originates high in the Himalayas and makes its long and winding journey over great plains before draining into the Sunderban Delta and its final destination, the Bay of Bengal.

The water supply depends on the melting snow from the Himalayas during the spring (April to June), and the rains brought by the monsoon season from July to October.

The dry season is during the winter, where water levels fall drastically.

The Ganges Basin

The Ganges Basin is one of the most densely populated areas in the World, with half of India’s population living on the banks of Ganges. Some 450 million people live here, more than the entire population of USA, and almost one out of every 15 of the World’s total population.

The Ganges River is about 2506 km (1557 miles) long and the basin about 320 to 650 km (200 to 400 miles) vide. The basin is irrigated by the Ganges and its tributaries and is one of the most fertile areas in the world. In many places it is possible to harvest crops several times a year. The fertile soil originates from sediments brought by the River Ganges all the way from the Himalayas, and in places it is more than 3 meters thick.

Cities along the Ganges

The largest city in the Ganges Basin is Kolkata with an estimated population exceeding 15 million, and the third largest city of India. But this is not the only large city, in total the river flows through 29 cities with populations of over 100,000.

Among the cities along the river, especially four cities, holy to Hinduism – Haridwar, Varanasi, Allahabad and Rishikesh – attract thousands of pilgrims and tourists each year. Hindu pilgrims arrive at these four cities to take a dip in the Ganges, which is believed to cleanse oneself of sins and help attain salvation.

Varanasi is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the World - more than 3000 years old – and is also the holiest Hindu city in all of India.

Activities

The rapids of the Ganges are popular river rafting area, attracting many adventure seekers in the summer months.

Ganges River is also a popular destination for anglers. Some of the favorite fishing pray is the Mahseer, the Giant Catfish and Trout.

Among other activities along the Ganges River are exploring some of the holy cities, their temples and palaces.

It is also possible to go on a cruise on the Ganges, if you want to see the surroundings in a more quiet and relaxed way.

For the more energetic trekking is a very popular activity, especially along the upper stretches of the river, where it still flows through mountainous areas.