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Loktak Lake

Imphal, Manipur, India
Sub Place Details: Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and is a pulsating ecosystem of global importance. Known for its unique floating islands called Phumdis, which are heterogeneous masses of vegetation, soil, and organic matter, it serves as the lifeblood of Manipur. Thi s ancient lake covers a surface area varying from 250 to 500 square kilometers depending on the monsoon season. It is a Ramsar site, signifying its ecological significance. The lake is divided into various zones, with the southern part housing the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park in the world. Local fishermen live on these floating islands in huts known as Phumsangs, creating a symbiotic relationship with nature that has existed for centuries. The water is used for hydropower, irrigation, and drinking. For a tourist, it offers a serene escape where the sky reflects perfectly in the calm waters. The biodiversity here is staggering, with over 200 species of aquatic plants and 100 species of birds calling it home. Visitors can experience the unique culture of the Meitei people who have adapted their entire lifestyle to the rhythm of the lake. It is truly a wonder of the natural world that combines environmental marvel with cultural heritage. The landscape is dotted with 14 small hills that appear as islands, providing breathtaking viewpoints. This place is not just a water body; it is a spiritual and economic hub for the people of Manipur. Exploring its vast expanse via traditional dugout canoes provides an intimate look at the floating gardens and the daily chores of the lake-dwellers.

General information

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    Ideal Duration:
    5 to 7 Hours
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    Place Type:
    Nature and Wildlife
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    Entry Fees:
    Sub Place Entry Fees:

    Standard Entry: Usually free for the lake area, but specific viewpoints like Sendra may charge INR 20.

    Boat Rides: Prices vary from INR 500 to INR 1500 depending on the duration.
    Sub Place Entry Fees:

    Standard Entry: Usually free for the lake area, but specific viewpoints like Sendra may charge INR 20.

    Boat Rides: Prices vary from INR 500 to INR 1500 depending on the duration.

    National Park: INR 30 for Indians and INR 200 for foreigners.
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    Timing:
    Sub Place Timings:

    General Access: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

    National Park: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

    Ideal Visit Time: Sunrise (6:00 AM) or Sunset (4:30 PM) offers the most stunning vis...
    Sub Place Timings:

    General Access: 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

    National Park: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

    Ideal Visit Time: Sunrise (6:00 AM) or Sunset (4:30 PM) offers the most stunning visuals and pleasant weather.
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    Special Events:
    Sub Place Special Event:

    Sangai Festival: Held every November, this is the state's biggest festival. While the main events are in Imphal, the lake becomes a hub for cultural performances and water sports.

    Loi-Ng...
    Sub Place Special Event:

    Sangai Festival: Held every November, this is the state's biggest festival. While the main events are in Imphal, the lake becomes a hub for cultural performances and water sports.

    Loi-Ngai-Ni: A seed-sowing festival celebrated with great pomp by the Naga tribes nearby, featuring traditional dances.
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    Best Photo Spots:
    Sub Place Best Photo Spots:

    Sendra Tourist Home: The highest point offering a bird's-eye view of the entire lake and the circular 'Athaphums'.

    Keibul Lamjao Viewpoint: Perfect for capturing the Sangai deer in...
    Sub Place Best Photo Spots:

    Sendra Tourist Home: The highest point offering a bird's-eye view of the entire lake and the circular 'Athaphums'.

    Keibul Lamjao Viewpoint: Perfect for capturing the Sangai deer in its natural, marshy habitat.

    Early Morning Phumdis: The mist over the floating islands creates a dreamlike, ethereal aesthetic for landscape photography.

Photo Gallery

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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens

Things To Do

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    Sub Place Things to Do:

    Boating in Traditional Canoes: Hire a local fisherman to take you through the narrow channels of the Phumdis in a wooden boat.

    Visit Keibul Lamjao National Park: Take a boat and then a short walk to spot the elusive Sangai deer.

    Sunset at Sendra Hill: Climb the Sendra hillock for a panoramic 360-degree view of the lake as the sun dips below the horizon.

    Stay in a Floating Homestay: Experience living like a local by spending a night in a Phumsang.

    Bird Watching: During winter, use binoculars to spot migratory birds like the Northern Pintail.

    Photography: Capture the vibrant colors of the water lilies and the reflections of the clouds.

Resturants

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Information

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    Why Famous:
    Why Famous Sub Place:

    The Floating Wonder: Loktak Lake is globally famous for its Phumdis, which are unique to this region. No other place on Earth features such large-scale floating vegetation that supports a whole ecosystem.

    Why Famous Sub Place:

    The Floating Wonder: Loktak Lake is globally famous for its Phumdis, which are unique to this region. No other place on Earth features such large-scale floating vegetation that supports a whole ecosystem.

    Keibul Lamjao National Park: It is the world’s only floating sanctuary and the last natural habitat of the Sangai deer (Brow-antlered deer).

    Economic Hub: It provides the primary source of livelihood for thousands of fishermen and generates power for the state via the Ithai Barrage. The lake is deeply ingrained in the folklore and myths of the Manipuri people.
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    Architecture:
    Sub Place Architecture:

    Natural Infrastructure: The "architecture" of Loktak Lake is primarily natural, characterized by the Phumdis. These circular floating landmasses can grow up to several meters thick.

    Float...
    Sub Place Architecture:

    Natural Infrastructure: The "architecture" of Loktak Lake is primarily natural, characterized by the Phumdis. These circular floating landmasses can grow up to several meters thick.

    Floating Huts: The human-made architecture includes the Phumsangs, traditional huts built using bamboo, reeds, and thatch. These structures are lightweight and specifically designed to float securely on the Phumdis.

    Dimensions: The lake spans a maximum length of 35 KM and a width of 13 KM. The Phumdis vary in size, with the largest covering 40 square kilometers. These floating masses are buoyant enough to support the weight of heavy animals like the Sangai deer and even human settlements.
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    How To Reach:
    Sub Place How to Reach:

    By Air: Fly to Tulihal International Airport in Imphal.

    By Train: The nearest major station is Dimapur, though the Khongsang station is becoming active.

    B...
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    Near Tourist Places:
    Moirang (5 KM), INA Museum (6 KM), Red Hill (16 KM), Loukoipat (20 KM)

Tourism Tips

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    Sub Place Tourism Tips:

    Health & Safety: Wear life jackets during boating and carry insect repellent.

    Packing: Bring light woolens for winters and a good pair of walking shoes.

    A...

Reviews

Note:-

Information provided here in good Faith and for reference only.

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