Mana Village, Uttarakhand: The Last Indian Village Before Tibet

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Mana Village, Uttarakhand: The Last Indian Village Before Tibet

Mana Village, Uttarakhand: The Last Indian Village Before Tibet

Introduction

  • Mana Village is India's last village before the Indo-Tibetan border, located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand.
  • It sits at an altitude of 3,200 meters (10,500 feet) above sea level.
  • The village is famous for its scenic beauty, mythological significance, and trekking routes.

Geographical Location & Accessibility

  • Mana Village location: Near Badrinath Temple, only 3 km away.
  • How to reach Mana Village:
    • By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approx. 320 km).
    • By Train: The closest railway station is Rishikesh (approx. 295 km).
    • By Road: Well-connected by road from Haridwar, Rishikesh, and Joshimath.

Historical & Mythological Significance

  • Mana Village history is deeply connected to the Mahabharata.
  • It is believed to be the place where the Pandavas took their final journey towards Swargarohini (the path to heaven).
  • The famous "Bheem Pul" is said to have been built by Bheem to help Draupadi cross the river Saraswati.
  • The Vyas Gufa (Cave) is where Sage Vyas is believed to have written the Mahabharata.

Tourist Attractions in Mana Village

  1. Bheem Pul
    • A massive rock bridge over the Saraswati River, believed to be placed by Bheem.
  2. Vyas Gufa
    • A sacred cave where Maharishi Vyas composed the Mahabharata.
  3. Ganesh Gufa
    • The place where Lord Ganesha is said to have written the Mahabharata as dictated by Vyas.
  4. Saraswati River
    • The mystical river that disappears underground after a few kilometers.
  5. Mana Pass (Dungri La)
    • One of the highest motorable passes (5,545m) in India, leading to the Tibet border.
  6. Neelkanth Peak
    • A majestic Himalayan peak visible from Mana, popular among trekkers.

Cultural Significance & Local Life

  • The villagers belong to the Bhotia tribe, known for their rich Tibetan-influenced culture.
  • They engage in weaving woolen garments, selling herbal medicines, and traditional handicrafts.
  • During winters, villagers migrate to lower Himalayan regions due to heavy snowfall.

Trekking & Adventure Activities

  • Mana to Vasudhara Falls Trek (6 km): Leads to a beautiful waterfall believed to be cursed for the impure-hearted.
  • Mana to Satopanth Trek (22 km): A challenging trek leading to the Satopanth Tal (a sacred glacial lake).
  • Charan Paduka Trek (3 km): A trek to a rock with imprints of Lord Vishnu’s feet.

Best Time to Visit Mana Village

  • Summer (May – June): Pleasant weather, best for sightseeing.
  • Monsoon (July – September): Risky due to landslides.
  • Autumn (September – November): Best for trekking and photography.
  • Winter (December – April): The village remains covered in snow; most residents migrate.

Why You Should Visit Mana Village?

✔️ Scenic Beauty – Experience the untouched Himalayan beauty.
✔️ Spiritual Connection – A sacred place linked to Hindu mythology.
✔️ Adventure Opportunities – Trekking, camping, and nature walks.
✔️ Cultural Experience – Interact with indigenous tribal communities.
✔️ Proximity to Badrinath – A must-visit after the Char Dham pilgrimage.


Ankita Singh. Travel blogger | Uttarakhand | Content creater | Photographer

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