Mana Village is a small, scenic hamlet located near the town of Badrinath in the Chamoli district of Uttarakhand, India. It is known as the 'last Indian village' before the Mana Pass and is close to the Indo-Tibetan border. The village is steeped in historical and mythological significance and is famous among tourists for its picturesque landscapes and cultural heritage.
Mana Village can be reached by road from the nearest major town, Badrinath. Badrinath is well-connected with the major cities of Uttarakhand via motorable roads. From Badrinath, it's just a short drive (around 3-4 km) to Mana Village. The nearest airport is Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and the nearest railway station is at Haridwar. From both these places, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Badrinath and subsequently, Mana Village.
The best time to visit Mana Village is from May to October when the weather is pleasant, and the roads are accessible. The village remains closed for tourists during the winter months due to heavy snowfall, which cuts off the access to the area.
Mana Village boasts attractions like the Vyas Gufa, where sage Vyas is believed to have composed the Mahabharata. Visitors can also see attractions like the Ganesh Gufa, Bhim Pul - a natural rock formation bridge, and Saraswati River, which is said to meet the Alaknanda River at Keshav Prayag. The village's quaint houses, traditional lifestyles, and panoramic Himalayan views also make it a unique place to visit.
Tourists can engage in a variety of activities such as trekking, photography, village walks, and exploring local myths and stories. There are also opportunities for sightseeing around local shrines and natural wonders, experiencing local cuisine, and buying handicrafts made by the villagers.
Mana Village has limited accommodation options, including small guesthouses and homestays where visitors can experience the local way of life. For more amenities and a wide range of hotels, tourists generally stay in Badrinath and visit Mana Village during the day.
Mana Village has a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can witness traditional lifestyles and customs that have been preserved over generations. However, specific cultural events or festivals are not widely publicized, and mostly align with those celebrated in the greater Badrinath area, like the Mata Murti Ka Mela, and the opening and closing ceremonies of the Badrinath Temple.
Indian nationals do not require a permit to visit Mana Village. However, foreign nationals may need to check with the local authorities as the village is close to the international border. It's advisable to carry valid identification for security checks that may occur en route to the village.
Travelers are advised to keep track of the weather reports before planning their visit as the region can experience sudden changes in weather conditions. Always carry warm clothing regardless of the season, as the temperatures can drop unexpectedly. Also, it’s recommended to carry sufficient cash as there may be a lack of ATMs or card payment facilities in the area.
For a trip to Mana Village, it is essential to pack warm clothing, sturdy trekking shoes, a raincoat or umbrella, personal medications, a good camera, and backup batteries or power banks as electricity supply can be erratic. Also, carry snacks and bottled water for the journey and any treks you plan to take in the area.
