Chitkul & Mana: Where India’s Journey Begins and Ends

Perched on the rugged Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh's Chitkul and Uttarakhand's Mana village are border sentry posts of India. These far-flung, off-the-beaten-path villages, also popularly known as India's last and first villages respectively, provide a privileged peep into the multicultural and geographical fabric of the nation.

Situated at an altitude of about 3,450 meters (11,318 feet) in Himachal Pradesh's Kinnaur district, Chitkul is the last populated village along the Indo-Tibetan border. The drive to Chitkul is an eyesore, with roads meandering through thick forests, terraced farms, and wooden houses typical of the region that litter the landscape all around. The Baspa River flows gently along, adding to the charm of the village.
The indigenous people of Chitkul are largely Kinnauri in origin, with rich cultural heritage as a blend of Hinduism and Buddhism. Ancient temples and monasteries are occupied where Phulaich (harvest) festivals are celebrated with traditional songs, dance, and rituals. Individuals are typically received with warm hospitality, enabling travelers to experience local ways of living.
Food at Chitkul is a part of the agrarian culture of the place. The food is buckwheat, barley, and potato-based. 'Sidu,' a steamed bread, is a favorite and is usually consumed with ghee or lentil curry. The mountain air enhances the flavor, and each meal is memorable.

Situated at around 3,200 meters (10,500 feet) height, Mana is traditionally the very first Indian village due to its proximity to Tibet's border. Only 3 kilometers from Badrinath temple, a greatly revered temple by Hindus, Mana is spiritually and mythologically incredible.
The majority of the Bhotiya inhabitants, who are Tibetans, live in this village and have managed to preserve their own unique cultural identity for centuries. The flat-roofed stone houses lined along the bent alleys are characteristic of the region, and the people are famous for their beautiful woolen weavings and handicrafts. The religious festivals of Diwali and Janmashtami are observed with fervor, demonstrating religious syncretism of the practices.
Mana's kitchen is a gastronomic treat, with Tibetan and Indian cooking traditions being reflected in the cuisine. Guests can indulge in 'thukpa' (hearty noodle soup), 'momo' (steamed dumplings), and 'chaang' (fermented, traditional drink). Locally grown herbs and spices add a personal flavor of their own to the food, a testament to the love of nature of the people.



Both Mana and Chitkul are living museums in which ancient traditions still persist amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. The white peaks, verdant valleys, and crystal clear rivers form a serene setting for everyday life, providing tourists with a respite from city tumult and a return to nature.
Time appears to stand still in these villages, allowing one to enjoy the little things in life more intensely. A trip to Chitkul and Mana promises a memorable experience that lingers long after the journey is over, whether it is through listening to stories with locals over a hearty meal, participating in vibrant festivals, or simply soaking up the sweeping vistas.
When organizing your next journey, keep in mind that these frontier settlements are not just places to visit, but also entry points to the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking scenery that characterize India's Himalayan regions.