Ganesh Gufa

Ganesh Gufa is another prominent ancient site in Mana Village, which is located just 500 meters from the cave of Veda Vyasa. People who visit Badrinath for their pilgrimage often come here to experience this sacred site. Situated near the banks of the Saraswati River, this is the same place where Lord Ganesh composed the epic Mahabharata. As soon as you step into the cave, it evokes a sense of awe and goosebumps which is beyond imagination. The history of Mana village revolves around various folklore related to the Mahabharata and its characters.

Over 5000 Years Old Cave

Along with the Ved Vyas Cave, Badrinath Ganesha Cave is another mysterious and spiritual cave situated near Keshav Prayag. Surrounded by towering mountains, the cave produces a scenic view of the surrounding landscape. It is just 5 km away from Badrinath and is easily accessible by taxi. The cave is mostly frequented by devotees undertaking the Char Dham pilgrimage. Like the Badrinath Temple, the Ganesh Gufa remains open for six months a year. Both Vyas Gufa and Ganesh Gufa are believed to be of the same period and are over 5000 years old. Inside the Ganesh Gufa, there is a small idol of Lord Ganesh, where people seek his blessing and offer prayers.

Place where the Mahabharatha was Transcribed

According to legend and scriptures, Ved Vyasa narrated the entire Mahabharata to Lord Ganesh, who then composed the great epic for the people of Kali Yuga at this very place. It is said that when Lord Ganesh jotted down the verses recited by the Ved Vyasa, his pen broke. Ganesha didn't want to waste time searching for another; he broke half of his tusks and continued writing with it. This is why, in the current time, the idol of Lord Ganesh is depicted with broken tusks.

Location and Accessibility

Ganesha Cave is situated in Mana Village, Chamoli District, Uttarakhand. Once known as the last village of India, Mana is now regarded as the first Village of India. Being located near the China Border, the village offers good road connectivity from Delhi and various parts of Uttarakhand. It can be reached via buses, shared taxis, or private cabs from Rishikesh, Haridwar, and Dehradun.

Accommodation

Hotel options in Mana are limited and usually occupied during the peak season. Visitors are advised to book their stays in Badrinath, which offers a wide variety of lodging options such as Hotels, guesthouses, homestays, resorts, and a dharma shala.

Important Tips for Travellers

• Due to heavy snowfall, the cave remains inaccessible during winter.
• Accommodation in Mana is limited; it is advisable to book your stay in Badrinath.
• Public Transport, such as buses and shared taxis, is available up to Badrinath.
• Buses to Badrinath depart around 5:00 AM from Haridwar and 5:30 AM from the Rishikesh bus stand.
• To access the cave, visitors need to ascend a short uphill walk.
• ATM facilities are limited in the region, so carry sufficient cash.
• Roadside parking is available in Mana.
• Night visibility can be an issue, so try to reach the Badrinath or Mana before dusk.
• Photography and Videography are not allowed inside the cave.
• Carry essential woollens, as the weather remains cool even during summer.

Nearby Attraction

While visiting Ganesh Gufa in Mana, you can also explore other popular and ancient places:-

• Vyas Gufa.
• Badrinath Temple.
• Mana
• Mata Murti Temple.
• Vasudhara Falls.
• Bheem Pul
• Brahma Kapal.