Tucked away in the Garhwal Himalayas near the sacred town of Badrinath lies Mana Village, a serene Himalayan hamlet brimming with mythology, culture, and raw beauty. Once known as the “Last Village of India,” Mana is now celebrated as the “First Indian Village,” symbolizing pride, heritage, and frontier resilience.
Where is Mana Village Located?
Situated at an altitude of about 3,200 meters (10,500 ft) in Chamoli district, Uttarakhand, Mana sits along the Saraswati River, just 5 km from Badrinath Temple and close to the Indo-Tibetan border.
Its proximity to the majestic Himalayan peaks, pure glacial streams, and rich traditions make it a must-visit destination for travelers and pilgrims alike.
Why It’s Called India’s “First Village”
Previously known as the last Indian village, Mana earned its new title under the Vibrant Village Programme, launched by the Government of India.
This initiative redefines border villages not as the “last” but as the first points of connection and pride, celebrating their role in preserving Himalayan culture and India’s northern frontier.
A signboard by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) welcomes visitors with the words —
“Welcome to the First Indian Village – Mana.”
Mythological & Cultural Significance
Mana Village holds deep mythological roots tied to the Mahabharata.
According to legends, the Pandavas passed through this area on their journey to heaven, with several sites preserving their memory:
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Bheema Pul – A natural rock bridge believed to have been placed by Bheema across the Saraswati River.
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Vyas Gufa – A sacred cave where sage Vyasa is said to have composed the Mahabharata.
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Ganesh Gufa – A nearby cave where Lord Ganesha supposedly penned the epic as Vyasa dictated it.
The village is home to the Bhotia tribe, known for their traditional wool weaving, hand-knit shawls, and mountain hospitality.
Things to See & Do in Mana Village
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Bheema Pul – Capture breathtaking photos of the Saraswati River’s roaring flow.
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Vyas & Ganesh Gufa – Visit these mythological caves and offer prayers.
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Vasudhara Falls Trek – A 6 km scenic trail offering panoramic Himalayan views.
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Handicraft Shopping – Explore the woolen shawls, caps, and handmade carpets crafted by Bhotia women.
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Keshav Prayag – The confluence of the Alaknanda and Saraswati rivers.
How to Reach Mana Village
By Air:
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Nearest Airport: Jolly Grant Airport (Dehradun) – around 320 km away.
Regular taxis and shared jeeps are available from Dehradun or Rishikesh to Badrinath.
By Train:
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Nearest Railway Station: Haridwar (~275 km) or Rishikesh (~260 km).
From there, buses or cabs head toward Joshimath and Badrinath.
By Road:
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Mana is 5 km from Badrinath, connected by NH-7 (Rishikesh–Badrinath Highway).
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Buses, shared jeeps, and private taxis operate from Rishikesh, Haridwar, Dehradun, and Joshimath.
Pro Tip: The roads beyond Joshimath remain open mainly between May and early November (before snowfall).
Where to Stay – Accommodation Options
Though small, Mana and nearby Badrinath offer a variety of stays for different travelers:
In Mana Village
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Homestays: Several local families offer cozy stays with traditional food, such as Bhotia Homestay and Saraswati View Stay.
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Tented Camps: Seasonal camps are available for trekkers and bikers near the village entrance.
In Badrinath (5 km away)
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GMVN Tourist Rest House (Garhwal Mandal Vikas Nigam) – Clean government-run lodge.
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Hotel Dwarikesh & Narayan Palace Hotel – Comfortable options with mountain views.
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Budget Guesthouses – Plenty of pilgrim lodges offering basic but affordable amenities.
It’s best to book accommodation in Badrinath, as options in Mana are limited and seasonal.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Mana is from May to early November.
During winters, the region experiences heavy snowfall, and roads close beyond Joshimath.
Why You Should Visit Mana Village
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Be among the first to stand at India’s frontier village
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Witness ancient myths come alive amidst majestic mountains
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Experience local Himalayan culture and warm hospitality
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Explore a blend of spiritual heritage, nature, and adventure
Mana isn’t just a village — it’s a living story of faith, resilience, and India’s northern spirit.
FAQ – Mana Village, Uttarakhand
1. Why is Mana called the First Indian Village?
Under the Vibrant Village Programme, Mana is recognized as the first Indian village near the Indo-Tibetan border — symbolizing India’s northern gateway.
2. How far is Mana from Badrinath Temple?
Only 5 km, easily accessible by road or foot.
3. Can tourists stay overnight in Mana?
Yes, but stays are limited to local homestays and tents. Most tourists prefer staying in Badrinath.
4. Is photography allowed in Mana?
Yes, photography is permitted — especially near Bheema Pul and the scenic valley views.
Conclusion
Mana Village stands as a symbol of India’s spiritual and cultural frontier, where the grandeur of the Himalayas meets timeless mythology. Whether you’re a pilgrim, nature lover, or curious traveler, Mana offers a glimpse into India’s ancient wisdom and living traditions.
From the echo of the Saraswati River to the calm of the Bhotia homes, every step in this “First Indian Village” tells a story — one of faith, resilience, and the eternal bond between people and the mountains.
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