Keeping their luggage there, they went with Baba for a dip in the holy Ganges, where there was a great crowd of pilgrims on the steps leading to the river. But the water was so dirty that they returned without bathing.
They hired a car to go to Rishikesh, located in the foothills of the Himalayas. The automobile was in a run-down condition and would not start. After a number of attempts, Baba became exasperated and hired another car.
Rishikesh's ancient name means the abode of sages [rishis]. It has been a famous meeting place of sadhus, sanyasis and yogis since ancient times. Walking about the town, Baba encountered the pilgrims he desired and put his head on the feet of numerous sadhus, and even lepers. Later, in a private area, the Master talked with a genuine sadhu named Nepali Baba, who was outwardly and inwardly detached from the world.
From Rishikesh they proceeded to Laxman Jhula (Laxman's Swing), fourteen miles away. However, after a perilous drive across the suspension bridge, they turned back and reached Hardwar at one in the afternoon. In Hardwar, Baba decided that they should begin their foot journey to Sakori, and preparations were made. After fasting the whole day, the mandali had rice and dal in the late afternoon, but Baba still ate nothing. He had stomach pains and was feverish. Adi and Vajifdar were telegraphed messages; Vajifdar was instructed to meet them at the Laskar railway station.
The dharamshala at Hardwar was very unclean, so Baba suggested camping near the train station. Gustadji and Behramji fell twice carrying the luggage on their heads. Baba also burdened himself with luggage and, despite his fasting and poor health, walked with rapid strides. They camped for the night in a field near the train station, but Baba was feeling so ill he could not sleep.
The next morning at six o'clock, the men had tea and cake after washing. It was the first time during the journey that Baba had allowed the men to eat anything sweet; yet, Baba still ate nothing. At nine o'clock, they left Hardwar, walking rapidly to Laksar. Baba was forced to stop to relieve himself along the way, passing watery stools; but soon after he continued walking at a brisk pace. After hiking two miles, the mandali ate dal and bread at Jawalpuri, but Baba would not let them rest and they continued.