Trying to relive the past. Review on Sacred Waters - Stephen Alter

I read this book a few days back. The author is Stephen Alter. He is an Indian citizen, now settled in the US. The journey he describes, is of his visit to the Char Dhams. Char Dhams are the four sources of the Ganga and the olden days, it used to be considered as the ultimate pilgrimage (second only I think to Mt Kailash). The author, being born and brought up in Mussorie, had a very good understanding of the Indian psyche and has used this knowledge to his advantge, when he describes his journey, the people he meets and the places he visits. The book describes in great detail, the beauty of the Gharwal region and how modern technology, though easing the human strain and fatigue has slowly and steadly destoyed the life in the hills. The book has no photos, sadly. I agree with the authors view for not carrying a camera deliberately, as it would only slow hiim down and the view that the human eye captures and imprints on the mind, is something no camera can duplicate. The book is an easy read and should interest all those who are fond of trekking and adventure in the Himalayas.