Mana Village: The First Indian Village at the Himalayan Edge

Mana Village: India's First Village, Where Myth Meets the Majestic Himalayas

Nestled at 3,200 meters in the mighty Himalayas, Mana Village is more than just a destination—it’s a journey into India’s mystical northern frontier. Once famed as the "last village of India," this quiet hamlet in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district is now proudly marked as the first Indian village—thanks to a 2023 declaration by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO), which placed a signboard right at the edge of the Indo-Tibetan border. But beyond its newfound title, Mana is a land where myths come alive, offering a blend of adventure, spirituality, and breathtaking landscapes.

Mana Village (Image: X/@pushkardhami)

Why Mana Village Deserves a Spot on Your Travel Bucket List

Located just 4 km from the sacred Badrinath Temple, Mana sits quietly on the banks of the roaring Saraswati River, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and clouds that feel within reach. Its stone houses, mythological sites, and age-old traditions provide more than scenic beauty—they offer soul-stirring experiences.

Here, you’ll sip hot pahadi chai at the last tea shop in India, hear stories of the Mahabharata from the locals, and trek paths once walked by ancient sages. This is where myth meets mountain magic.

Top Attractions Around Mana Village: Where Every Turn Tells a Tale

If you're planning a trip to this Himalayan wonderland, don’t miss these nearby gems:

Badrinath Temple (Image: Canva)

1. Badrinath Temple: The gateway to salvation and one of India’s most visited Char Dham shrines.

2. Charan Paduka: Sacred footprints believed to be of Lord Vishnu, set into ancient rock.

The Saraswati River coming from Bhimpul Waterfall (Image: Canva)

3. Bhim Pul: A massive stone bridge that, legend says, Bhima himself placed across the Saraswati River.

4. Vyas Gufa: Step inside the cave where Sage Vyasa is believed to have composed the Mahabharata.

Vasudhara Falls (Image: char Dham Yatra)

5. Vasundhara Falls: A silken cascade said to turn its flow away from the impure-hearted.

6. Mana Pass: Among the highest motorable roads on Earth, offering epic views of the Indo-China border.

7. Satopanth Lake: A mystical, emerald-green lake wrapped in local lore and high-altitude silence.

Neelkanth Peak (Image: Wikipedia)

8. Neelkanth Peak: Nicknamed the ‘Garhwal Queen,’ this icy summit glows golden at sunrise.

How to Reach Mana Village: The Road to India’s Roof

Getting to Mana is a journey as breathtaking as the destination itself:

By Road: Mana is easily accessible by road from Badrinath, which is well-connected to Joshimath, Rishikesh, and Dehradun. Expect winding roads, panoramic valley views, and plenty of photo stops along the way.

By Air: The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun (approximately 310 km). From there, you can hire a taxi or take a bus that will take around 10–12 hours via Rishikesh and Joshimath.

By Train: The nearest railway station is Rishikesh, about 295 km away. From there, take a scenic 9–10 hour road journey through mountain towns and misty forests to reach Mana.

Mana Village (Image: X/@Munsyari_)

The Mana Magic: More Than Just a Village

Mana is not just a pin on the map—it’s a transformative experience. Whether you’re a pilgrim tracing the footsteps of gods, a trekker seeking snow-kissed trails, or a soul-searcher craving silence, Mana Village has something profound to offer.

Mana Village (Image: Canva)

So, if your heart yearns for a destination that blends untouched nature, mythological marvels, and Himalayan hospitality—Mana Village is calling. This Himalayan gem offers a gateway to a world of adventure, spirituality, and tranquility, making it the perfect destination for those looking to explore the hidden side of India.