THE SPECTACULAR VIEW OF MANA, THE LAST INDIAN VILLAGE BEFORE TIBET.

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It was in the evening of April 30, 2009, we decided to drive from Badrinath to Mana Village. Mana, famously known as the last village on Indian land, with Tibet situated beyond, was a destination we were eager to explore. The well-known trade route, Mana Pass, is located 48 kilometers ahead of this village, but has been closed-off since 1962.

ENROUTE TO MANA VILLAGE

After parking our car at the entrance of Mana, we set off on foot through the village. This mysterious Himalayan valley is renowned for its mythological significance, being surrounded by a plethora of myths and legends from the epic Mahabharat. It is widely believed that Veda Vyas composed the Mahabharat while residing in this very place.

MANA WITH A BACKDROP

Mana, located at an elevation of 3118 meters (10229 ft) above sea level, is approximately 3 kilometers away from the sacred city of Badrinath in the state of Uttarakhand, India. The indigenous community, known as the Bhutia tribe, traces its roots back to Tibet and sought refuge in India following the Chinese invasion. Residents dwell in stone huts coated with mud, engaging in activities such as weaving woolen garments and tending to livestock for sustenance. The picturesque landscape surrounding this idyllic countryside is truly awe-inspiring.

Following a brief stroll, we arrived at a location known as Bhim-Pul (Bhima’s Bridge), where travelers could traverse the Saraswati river by means of a large rock to reach Vyas Gufa (Vyas Cave) and a few other caves. At this juncture, the tributary river Saraswati converges with the Alaknanda River, forming the Bhagirathi. Interestingly, the Saraswati river remains concealed beyond this point, with its source remaining untraceable. The Bhagirathi river continues its course, eventually meeting the Ganga River at Devprayag.

STONE LAID HUTS OF LOCAL PEOPLE

ALAKANANDA RIVER FLOWING DOWN THE HILLS FROM MANA

LOCAL PEOPLE RETURNING HOME WITH THEIR CATTLE

BREATHTAKING SCENES DURING THE TREK

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Legend has it that during their journey to heaven, the Pandavas encountered a challenge when Draupadi struggled to cross the river Saraswati. Bhima came to the rescue by creating a bridge using a massive rock. It is believed that Draupadi met her demise not too far from this spot. Remarkably, if you observe the rock formations closely, you may still discern the outlines of two faces appearing to kiss, along with several other faces, almost as if the tale is being recounted once more.

SARASWATI RIVER EMERGING OUT OF THE ROCKS AT BHIM-PUL. LOOK AT THE KISSING FACES SAYING GOOD-BYE

This moment will forever be etched in my memory as a photographer. The road to paradise! According to belief, this was the very path the Pandavas traveled on their final journey to heaven. The narrow pathway, flanked by stone structures, still stands as a testament to the past. A place where time appears to come to a halt…!

THE ROAD TO HEAVEN !!! SPECTACULAR VIEW OF THE STONE-LAID PATH BELIEVED TO HAVE USED BY THE PANDAVAS ON THEIR WAY TO HEAVEN.

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THE ROAD TO HEAVEN !!! SPECTACULAR VIEW OF THE STONE-LAID PATH BELIEVED TO HAVE TAKEN BY THE PANDAVAS ON THEIR LAST WALK TO HEAVEN.

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We were informed about the ‘Vasundhara Falls’ located 3 kilometers ahead of our current position. With the fading light, we chose to make our way back, carrying with us fond memories and a feeling of serenity.

VILLAGE KIDS GREETING US WITH A SMILE