Mana Village, Uttarakhand

The First Village of India: "MANA"

Mana Village is a beautiful and quaint hamlet nestled in the lap of the majestic Himalayas, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand state, India. It is situated at an altitude of 3,200 meters above sea level, making it the last inhabited village on the Indian side before the Tibetan border. The village is located just 24 kilometers from the famous Hindu pilgrimage site of Badrinath and is a popular stopover for tourists visiting the holy shrine.

The village is steeped in history and mythology and is believed to be the abode of the ancient rishis and sages who meditated and practiced yoga here. The village has been mentioned in many ancient Hindu scriptures like the Mahabharata and the Puranas. It is also believed to be the birthplace of the legendary Vyas Rishi, who is credited with writing the Mahabharata. Mana Village is known for its pristine natural beauty and is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, lush green meadows, and dense forests. The village is situated on the banks of the Alaknanda River, which adds to its charm. Visitors can indulge in activities like trekking, camping, and hiking in the surrounding hills and valleys. There are also several hot springs in the area that are believed to have medicinal properties.

The village has a population of around 600 people, and the locals here are known for their hospitality and warm welcome. The village is famous for its handcrafted souvenirs and woolen shawls. Visitors can also sample the local cuisine, which is simple yet delicious and includes dishes like rajma chawal, aloo ke gutke, and mandua ki roti. One of the main attractions of Mana Village is the Vyas Gufa or the cave of Vyas Rishi, which is believed to be the place where he composed the Mahabharata. Another must-visit attraction is the Bhim Pul , a natural bridge over the Saraswati River, believed to have been built by the Pandavas during their exile.

Exploring the Marvels: Places to Visit near Mana Village

Nestled in the lap of the Himalayas, Mana Village stands as the first inhabited village on the Indo-Tibetan border in India. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, this quaint hamlet offers a gateway to some of the most enchanting destinations in the region. If you're planning a visit to Mana Village, here are the must-visit places nearby:

1. Badrinath Temple: Just 3 kilometers from Mana Village lies the sacred Badrinath Temple, one of the holiest Hindu shrines dedicated to Lord Vishnu. Set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks, this ancient temple attracts devotees from far and wide who come to seek blessings and spiritual solace.

2. Vasudhara Falls: Embark on a scenic trek from Mana Village to Vasudhara Falls, a mesmerizing cascade nestled amidst lush greenery and towering cliffs. The 5-kilometer trek offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys, culminating in the awe-inspiring sight of the waterfall plunging from a height of over 400 feet.

3. Mana Pass: For adventure enthusiasts, a trek to Mana Pass is a must-do experience. Situated at an altitude of 5,608 meters, this high mountain pass offers panoramic views of the Himalayan range and serves as a historic trade route between India and Tibet.

4. Saraswati River: The mythical Saraswati River originates near Mana Village, adding to the mystical charm of the region. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the river, soaking in the serene ambiance and pristine beauty of the surroundings.

5. Bhim Pul: Legend has it that the mighty Pandava prince Bhima constructed a natural bridge, known as Bhim Pul, across the Saraswati River. This marvel of nature is located near Mana Village and is a popular spot for tourists to marvel at the architectural prowess of ancient times.

6. Satopanth Lake: Embark on an adventurous trek from Mana Village to Satopanth Lake, a high-altitude glacial lake nestled amidst towering peaks. Surrounded by pristine wilderness and panoramic vistas, this sacred lake is believed to be the abode of Lord Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh.

7. Charan Paduka: Located a short distance from Mana Village, Charan Paduka is a sacred rock bearing the footprints of Lord Vishnu. Pilgrims believe that these footprints belong to Lord Vishnu when he descended from Vaikuntha to bless the earth.

8. Neelkanth Peak: Admire the majestic Neelkanth Peak, which towers over Mana Village, with its snow-capped summit piercing the azure sky. The peak is revered by locals and trekkers alike for its stunning beauty and spiritual significance.

9. Vyas Gufa: Vyas Gufa is a cave where Ved Vyas, the author of the Mahabharata, is believed to have meditated and composed the epic. It is located about 3 kilometers from Mana village.

How to reach Mana Village?

Located in the picturesque state of Uttarakhand, Mana Village is nestled in the lap of the Himalayas near the Indo-Tibetan border. While it may be the last inhabited village on the Indian side, reaching Mana Village is an adventure in itself. Here's how you can get there:

By Road:

The most common way to reach Mana Village is by road. The village is well-connected to nearby towns and cities like Badrinath, Joshimath, and Rishikesh by a network of roads. From Badrinath, which is approximately 3 kilometers away, you can hire a taxi or take a shared jeep to reach Mana Village. The road journey offers breathtaking views of the Himalayan landscape, making it a memorable experience.

By Air:

The nearest airport to Mana Village is the Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun, which is located approximately 310 kilometers away. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mana Village via Rishikesh and Joshimath. The journey by road from Dehradun to Mana Village takes around 10-12 hours, depending on the traffic and road conditions.

By Train:

The nearest railway station to Mana Village is the Rishikesh Railway Station, situated approximately 295 kilometers away. From Rishikesh, you can either hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Mana Village via Joshimath and Badrinath. The road journey from Rishikesh to Mana Village takes around 9-10 hours, offering scenic views of the Himalayan foothills and river valleys along the way.

Important Tips:

- It's advisable to check the weather conditions and road status before embarking on your journey to Mana Village, especially during the monsoon and winter seasons when certain routes may be affected by landslides or snowfall.
- Carry sufficient water, snacks, and necessary medications, especially if you're traveling by road or trekking to Mana Village, as facilities may be limited in remote areas.
- Plan your accommodation in advance, as options may be limited in Mana Village due to its remote location and limited infrastructure.

In conclusion, the vicinity of Mana Village is replete with natural wonders, spiritual landmarks, and adventurous trails waiting to be explored. Whether you're seeking spiritual enlightenment, adrenaline-pumping adventures, or simply a retreat amidst nature's splendor, the places near Mana Village offer an unforgettable experience for every traveler. So pack your bags, lace up your boots, and embark on an extraordinary journey into the heart of the Himalayas.