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Mana, a village in Uttarakhand is officially recognized as the “last Indian village” from the border of India as well as the border of China. It is a village in the district of Chamoli, located at an altitude of 3,200 meters also lies on the bank of the river Saraswathi. It is from a distance of 5 km from the famous Hindu pilgrimage town, Badrinath. This last village of India is often confused with Chitkul, a small village in Himachal Pradesh. But, to clear things out, Chitkul is the “last inhabited village” which is located in the Indo-Tibetan border.
Religious significance
Mana is known for its religious significance as in this place, it is believed that the Pandavas passed through this village on their way to heaven. This place also has this Stone bridge near the river Saraswathi, which is called the ‘Bheema Pul’ – believed to be created by Bheema, one of the five Pandava brothers.
People of Mana
People who live there are called Bhotias (Mongol Tribes). According to sources, there are about 558 households and a population of about 1214. Most of the villagers are from Gopeshwar and Pandukeshwar.
How to reach?
Mana is easily reached from Haridwar/Rishikesh and it is also 5km only from the Badrinath temple. The nearest railway station is Haridwar which around 275km from Mana and one can use a bus/taxi to reach the railway station. It is also 315km from Dehradun, buses operate regularly from Dehradun to reach Mana. However, it can also be reached from Delhi either by train or bus to Haridwar. From Haridwar one can reach Joshimath by using public transport which will approximately take 10 hours by road. From Joshimath, it will take around 2 hours to reach Mana by road.
Language
The most common language spoken in this village is Hindi and Garhwali.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit this village is in the months of May-June which is the peak season. Although, Mana village can still be visited till early November. The monsoon season starts from early July and lasts till September. However, this place can be visited even during the monsoon season because it receives less rainfall comparatively.
Places to visit in Mana
There are some exciting places to visit in Mana village:
Neelkanth Peak
It is one of the prime locations to visit in Mana village. It is located at an altitude of 6597 ft from sea level. Numerous Brahmakamal can also be seen from here. It is also known as the “Queen of Garhwal”, which towers the Badrinath temple which makes it a must to be on your bucket list while visiting Mana!
Tapt Kund
This place is the holy abode of the Lord of Agni. This kind has many medicinal values and it can cure many diseases. According to sources, when you dip into the kund water, it can cure many skin diseases. This place is visited by many tourists throughout the year.
Vasudhara
this is one of the beautiful waterfalls, which is located 9km from the Badrinath temple. It is also believed that the Pandavas stayed here while they were in their exile. This waterfall also gives some breath-taking views for amazing panoramic shots.
Mata murti temple
This temple is mainly devoted to the other of Lord Narayan. This temple also has some mythology facts. It is known that Mata Murti, requested lord Vishnu to take birth as her son. Lord Narayan, granted this wish and took birth in the form of twins – Nar and Narayan. This is one of the important religious places in Mana.
Other exciting things to do at Mana
Trekking
Mana is hands down the perfect place to start a trek and there are many trekking spots located here. Some of them are Mana to Vasudhara, Mana to Satopath & to Mana pass.
Mana to Satopath
The trek to Satopath starts from Mana, which is 3kms ahead of Badrinath. Satopath tal lake, which is located at an altitude of 15,100 ft above sea level. This point offers some beautiful views and it can be a delight.
Mana to Vasudhara
This trek will take 2 hours approximately. The Vasudhara river Valley amazes us with such scenic views. This point is also believed that was a temporary stay point for the Pandavas.
Mana to Mana pass
This is a trek to the mountain pass in the Himalayas on the border between India and Tibet. There is Deotal lake from which river Saraswati originates. However, this pass is not open for normal trekkers and one should get the authorized permission before trekking. This pass offers you some stunning views of the Chaukhamba, which a mountain summit of the Garhwal range.
Other treks
One can also take the Satopath Lake trek where one can see some beautiful peaks like the Chaukambha, Satopath, Parvati, and Neelkant.
Conclusion
Mana is however famous for mostly trekking and some village tourism. It also offers some breath-taking views that one can enjoy. This should be something new and exciting for everyone, to just sit and relax and enjoy some breath-taking snowy peaks at India’s last village – Mana!
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