From 'Last' to 'First': Mana's Unique Identity
For decades, a sign at Mana proudly declared it the 'Last Indian Village' before the border with Tibet. Located just three kilometres from the sacred town of Badrinath in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district, it was seen as a geographical endpoint. However,
a recent rebranding initiative, highlighted by a visit from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has transformed its identity to 'India's First Village'. This symbolic shift is more than just a name change; it represents a new perspective, positioning border villages not as remote outposts but as the proud frontiers of the nation. Sitting at an altitude of over 10,000 feet, this village is now drawing a surge of travellers who are curious to experience the place where mythology, breathtaking nature, and a unique culture converge.
Where Mythology Comes Alive
Mana is steeped in stories from the Hindu epic, Mahabharata, making it a living museum of ancient legends. The most significant site is Vyas Gufa, a cave where it is believed that the sage Ved Vyas dictated the entire epic to Lord Ganesha, who transcribed it in the nearby Ganesh Gufa. Another major attraction is Bheem Pul, a massive natural rock bridge over the roaring Saraswati River. According to legend, the powerful Pandava brother, Bheem, placed the boulder to help his wife Draupadi cross the river during their final ascent to heaven, known as the Swargarohini Yatra, which is believed to have started from here. The visible emergence of the mythical Saraswati River is another spiritual draw, making a walk through Mana feel like a journey through sacred history.
The Culture and Crafts of the Bhotiya Community
Mana is home to the Marcha Bhotia community, a semi-nomadic group with a rich cultural heritage. Traditionally traders who engaged in commerce with Tibet before the border closure in 1962, the Bhotias are renowned for their exceptional craftsmanship, particularly in weaving woollen items. Visitors can find locals knitting and weaving beautiful shawls, sweaters, and carpets, often from sheep wool. This transhumant community migrates to lower altitudes during the harsh winters, but in the summer, the village is abuzz with activity. Exploring the stone-paved pathways and interacting with the locals offers an authentic glimpse into a resilient mountain lifestyle, complete with traditional foods like kidney beans and potatoes grown in the high-altitude terrain.
A 'Vibrant' Push for Village Tourism
Mana's rising popularity is also fuelled by the government's 'Vibrant Villages Programme'. This centrally sponsored scheme aims to develop border villages by improving infrastructure like all-weather roads, internet connectivity, and tourism facilities. For villages like Mana, this means better access for travellers and new economic opportunities for residents, helping to curb out-migration. The programme, which covers 51 villages in Uttarakhand in its first phase, is designed to turn these remote areas into self-sufficient, thriving communities. The increased tourist footfall has already led to a rise in homestays and local businesses in Mana, showcasing a successful model for sustainable rural tourism.
Beyond Mana: Exploring Other Uttarakhand Villages
The allure of Mana is inspiring travellers to look beyond popular hill stations and explore other hidden gems across Uttarakhand. The state is dotted with picturesque villages that offer serene landscapes and authentic cultural experiences. In the Kumaon region, Munsiyari serves as a base for treks and offers stunning views of the Panchachuli peaks. Khirsu, in the Pauri Garhwal district, is a quiet hamlet surrounded by dense forests and provides panoramic views of Himalayan peaks like Nanda Devi and Trishul. For trekkers, villages like Sankri act as base camps for popular routes like Har Ki Dun and Kedarkantha. These destinations promise a slower, more immersive travel experience, connecting visitors with the true essence of the Himalayas.
