The Longest Eclipse since July 1991

The longest solar eclipse this century has crossed Asia, plunging much of India and China into darkness. Millions gathered to watch the event, which began at dawn.

One of the best views was in the town of Varanasi, on the banks of the Ganges in India.

Thousands of Hindus took a dip in keeping with the ancient belief that bathing in the river at Varanasi, especially on special occasions, cleanses your sins.

The eclipse then moved north and east from India to Nepal, Burma, Bangladesh, Bhutan and China.

At its peak, the eclipse lasted six minutes and 39 seconds. It was the longest such eclipse since July 11, 1991, when a total eclipse lasting six minutes, 53 seconds was visible from Hawaii to South America. There will not be a longer eclipse until 2132.