Mike Wardle

Through the Gates of Vishnu: a Journey Down the River Ganges from Source to Sea Mike Wardle

When Mike Wardle and Yvette Hassan set out from England to canoe the length of the mighty River Ganges in India they had no idea what dangers and adventures the journey would bring them. Tackling huge rapids in the Himalayas they followed the river onto the vast plains and down to the Ganges delta. Every day brought new episodes and challenges in a country playing out a theatrical festival of colour. Suffering from thirst, fatigue, and constant illness, and baking in temperatures of 40 degrees celsius they lived in and paddled their boat 1400 miles. Paddling through watery graveyards, braving sandstorms and fighting off bands of thieves they gradually learnt what life along the Ganges meant. At times believing that they had taken on too much; the warmth, friendliness and hospitality of India's inhabitants supported them through the venture. Being welcomed at some villages like film stars they were forever humbled by the people they met. Their nerves were severely tested when they had to cope with near house arrest to sharing their campsites with dead bodies. However, the animal life and flora that was experienced brought wonderment to this life of toil. On completing the river, not content, they trekked to the source of the River Ganges high in the Himalaya and completed a spiritual journey of discovery. Their exploits and adventures led them finally to tell the tale on Indian Television about the first descent of the River Ganges by Canoe.