Kumbh Mela is a Hindu pilgrimage to holy rivers in the four cities of Nasik, Allahabad, Ujjain and Hardwar

Allahabad city marks the confluence of two holy rivers: Ganga and Yamuna

Monks and elephants herald the entry of spiritual leaders

A city of tents in the riverbed

Sadhus (wondering monks) and pilgrims

Sadhu on a bed of thorns

Holy bath at the confluence of Ganga and Yamuna

Painted myths: gods and demons fight over a pot (kumbh) of nectar; river Ganga descends to earth

Nasik city is on the upper reaches of the peninsular river Godaveri

A small temple in Nasik at the riverside is dedicated to goddess Godaveri

Pilgrims take a holy dip in Godaveri river at Nasik

Pilgrim's town of Trimbakeshwar near Nasik, the origin of Godaveri

Pilgrims ascend to the springs high up in mountain cliffs around Trimbakeshwar

Hermits confer their blessings on pilgrims