Mana - Sip a hot cup of tea on the Indo-Tibet border in the cool climes of the first village in India

Mana is a small village located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, just 3 km from Badrinath town. It’s been designated as a ‘Tourism Village’ by the state government. People living there are called Bhotias, who live in small cottages that are gracefully decorated and carved. Visitors can enjoy the local culture by interacting with them, joining in their farming activities, and sampling authentic Himalayan cuisine, offering a glimpse into the unique lifestyle of this remote mountain community. Mana is a sacred place for the Hindus because of its links to the Mahabharata. It is believed that the Pandavas passed through the village on their way to heaven. There’s a famous stone bridge, Bheem Pul, believed to be created by Bheem (one of the brothers), a huge rock formation across the River Saraswati.

With its scenic trails and proximity to well known Himalayan attractions, Mana is a paradise for trekkers. The natural surroundings also provide an ideal habitat for many avian species, making it a haven for birdwatchers. It is famous for hand-made woolen garments and materials made of sheep wool, like shawls, caps, mufflers, pankhis (A thin blanket) and many other things. Homestays are available that offer a great experience to understand their rustic, yet charming lifestyle and traditions.

Things to do

Sightseeing:
Mana is a small village located in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, just 3 km from Badrinath town. It’s been designated as a ‘Tourism Village’ by the state government. People living there are called Bhotias, who live in small cottages that are gracefully decorated and carved. Visitors can enjoy the local culture by interacting with them, joining in their farming activities, and sampling authentic Himalayan cuisine, offering a glimpse into the unique lifestyle of this remote mountain community. Mana is a sacred place for the Hindus because of its links to the Mahabharata. It is believed that the Pandavas passed through the village on their way to heaven. There’s a famous stone bridge, Bheem Pul, believed to be created by Bheem (one of the brothers), a huge rock formation across the River Saraswati.
a. Bheem Pul is a bridge of mythological importance that spans the Saraswati River. Believed to be built by Bheem, to help Draupadi cross the river.
b. Vasudhara Falls cascade gracefully, as a conduit of divine blessings and rejuvenation.The Pandavas are believed to have rested here during exile.
c. Vyas Caves is said to be the place where Rishi Ved Vyas lived and composed the Mahabharata. It is a small shrine dedicated to him.

Explore:
a. Valley of Flowers, open from May-October, boasts an unimaginable variety of multicoloured blossoms set against towering mountains.
b. Tapt Kund Badrinath are beautiful hot springs, believed to have been the abode of Lord Agni and have medicinal properties to cure skin diseases.
c. Nanda Devi National Park has exceptionally rich biodiversity, and many threatened species like the snow leopard and the Himalayan musk deer.

Temple visits:
a. Mata Murti Temple is dedicated to the mother of Lord Narayan (Vishnu), who took birth as her son as Nar and Narayan.
b. Ganesha Cave lies in lush green surroundings and is revered because Lord Ganesha is said to have written the Mahabharata here.
c. Hemkund Sahib is a highly revered pilgrimage site for the Sikh community who believe Guru Gobind Singh spent 10 years in meditation here.
d. Badrinath Temple is only three kilometres from Mana.

Trek to the towering peaks of Nilkantha, Mana Parvat, and Mount Kamet through high mountain passes like Mana Pass and Saraswati Col.
Walk and marvel at the origin of the Saraswati River as it flows into the Alaknanda River to form the Keshav Prayag.
Birdwatching You can walk in the village or in the parks closeby for an amazing birdwatching experience.
Shopping is a delightful experience in Mana with quaint shops offering many local handicrafts, including woolen items made from sheep's wool.