Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat
The Narmada
Flowing westward across central India, the Narmada is said in tradition to have arisen from Shiva himself.
Sacred Rivers
The Ganga
The holiest river of India, the Ganga is worshipped as a goddess who descended to earth through Shiva's matted hair.
LocationFrom Gaumukh (Gangotri glacier) to the Bay of Bengal
State / RegionUttarakhand to West Bengal
Worshipped asGanga, released from Shiva's locks
Best time to visitOctober to March; Ganga Dussehra (May–June)
Religious significance
Pilgrims bathe at Haridwar, Rishikesh, Prayagraj and Varanasi; Ganga water (Gangajal) is carried home for rituals and offered to Shiva lingas, especially during the Kanwar Yatra in Shravan. The Kumbh Mela is held on her banks at Haridwar and Prayagraj.
Traditional story
See the story of Bhagiratha and the Descent of the Ganga on our Shiva Spiritual Journey page.
Legends are presented as they are told within the tradition; they hold spiritual meaning for devotees and are not offered as historical record.
Visitor guidance
- Evening aarti at Har Ki Pauri (Haridwar), Triveni Ghat (Rishikesh) and Dashashwamedh Ghat (Varanasi).
- Please do not leave plastic or non-biodegradable offerings in the river.
Continue the journey