Manipur
Key Geographical Details: Manipur is characterized by two distinct physiological regions: a central lush valley and surrounding blue-green hills. The oval-shaped Imphal Valley lies at an elevation of 790 meters above sea level and is surrounded by five major mountain ranges. The Manipur River and it s tributaries drain the valley, while the hills are part of the Eastern Himalayas. High-altitude peaks like Mount Isii and Shirui Kashong provide a rugged terrain that contrasts with the serene plains. These geographical features create a unique microclimate and support vast biodiversity, including rare flora like the Shirui Lily. The state covers a total area of approximately 22,327 square kilometers, with forests making up nearly 67% of the land. Administrative Tourism Details: The state is administratively divided into 16 districts, with Imphal serving as the capital and the primary tourism hub. Manipur Tourism is governed by the state department which manages luxury resorts, homestays, and significant heritage sites like Kangla Fort. For security and cultural preservation, domestic tourists must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter the state. The administration has developed specialized tourism circuits such as the Eco-Tourism Circuit and the World War II Heritage Circuit. Key administrative centers like Bishnupur, Ukhrul, and Senapati are equipped with tourist facilitation centers to assist travelers. The government also promotes sustainable tourism at Loktak Lake to protect the fragile ecosystem of the phumdis.
General information
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Ideal Duration:
5 to 7 Days is recommended to cover Imphal, Loktak Lake, Ukhrul, and Moreh.Place Type:
Eco-Tourism, Heritage & Culture, Adventure, ReligiEntry Fees:
Museum & Fort Fees: The entry to Kangla Fort for domestic tourists is approximately Rs.20, while foreign nationals pay around Rs.200. The Manipur State Museum has a nominal fee of Rs.10 for adults and Rs.5 for children. These fees contribute to the maintenance of historical artifa...Museum & Fort Fees: The entry to Kangla Fort for domestic tourists is approximately Rs.20, while foreign nationals pay around Rs.200. The Manipur State Museum has a nominal fee of Rs.10 for adults and Rs.5 for children. These fees contribute to the maintenance of historical artifacts and royal ruins.
National Park Charges: To enter the Keibul Lamjao National Park, domestic visitors are charged Rs.50, whereas foreign tourists pay Rs.500. Boating charges at Loktak Lake are separate and usually range from Rs.200 to Rs.500 per boat. Camera fees for professional photography may range between Rs.200 and Rs.1000 depending on the equipment.
Temple & Memorial Access: Most temples like Shree Govindajee and memorials like the INA Memorial do not have a fixed entry fee, though donations are welcome. However, some specific sections of the War Museums might charge a small maintenance fee of Rs.10 to Rs.20. It is advisable to carry small change for these payments.
Inner Line Permit Costs: All domestic tourists must apply for an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which costs around Rs.100 for a temporary stay. This can be obtained online or at the Imphal Airport and border check-posts. The permit is a legal requirement and must be presented at various district checkpoints.Timing:
Regular Sightseeing Timings: Most tourist spots like Kangla Fort and the Manipur State Museum operate from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Markets like Ima Keithel are active from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the best atmosphere found in the early morning. Temples are generally open from ...Regular Sightseeing Timings: Most tourist spots like Kangla Fort and the Manipur State Museum operate from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Markets like Ima Keithel are active from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with the best atmosphere found in the early morning. Temples are generally open from 5:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM for evening prayers.
Ideal Visit Time for Wildlife: To spot the Sangai deer at Keibul Lamjao, the best time is between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM. During these early hours, the animals are most active and come out to graze on the phumdis. Afternoon visits are often too hot for the deer, making sightings difficult.
Best Time for Boating: Boating at Loktak Lake is best enjoyed during the late afternoon from 3:30 PM to 5:30 PM. This allows visitors to witness the sunset over the water, which is the most scenic part of the day. The lighting at this time is also perfect for photography and enjoying the cool breeze.
Nightlife and Evening Leisure: Imphal city generally winds down early, with most shops closing by 7:30 PM. For evening leisure, the BT Park area and Kangla surroundings are pleasant for a walk until 8:00 PM. It is recommended to plan dinners early as most local restaurants close by 9:00 PM.Special Events:
Sangai Festival: Celebrated in November, this is the grandest state festival aimed at promoting tourism and local culture. It features traditional boat races, martial arts, classical dance performances, and indigenous sports. Food stalls offering authentic Manipuri cuisine...Sangai Festival: Celebrated in November, this is the grandest state festival aimed at promoting tourism and local culture. It features traditional boat races, martial arts, classical dance performances, and indigenous sports. Food stalls offering authentic Manipuri cuisine are a major highlight for international visitors.
Yaoshang Festival: This is the Manipuri version of Holi, celebrated for five days in March with great enthusiasm. The festival includes the Thabal Chongba dance, where young men and women dance in circles under the moonlight. It is a time of joy, color, and community bonding across the entire state.
Shirui Lily Festival: Held in May at Ukhrul, this festival celebrates the blooming of the rare Shirui Lily found only on the Shirui Hills. It showcases the culture of the Tangkhul Naga tribe through music, folk dances, and traditional games. The event attracts nature lovers and botanists from all over the world.
Lai Haraoba: This ritualistic festival is dedicated to the traditional deities of the Meitei people, held in April or May. It involves complex dance dramas that reenact the creation of the universe and human life. The colorful costumes and ancient music make it a mesmerizing experience for cultural enthusiasts.
Ningol Chakouba: Celebrated in October or November, this is a special social festival where married women return to their parental homes for a feast. It is a day of strengthening family bonds, with brothers presenting gifts to their sisters. While a family event, the festive atmosphere in the markets is palpable and welcoming to guests.Best Photo Spots:
Sendra Island Lookout: This hilltop provides a bird's-eye view of Loktak Lake and the floating phumdis. The panoramic shots of the vast blue water interspersed with green circular islands are iconic to Manipur. Early morning shots during the golden hour capture the mist ri...Sendra Island Lookout: This hilltop provides a bird's-eye view of Loktak Lake and the floating phumdis. The panoramic shots of the vast blue water interspersed with green circular islands are iconic to Manipur. Early morning shots during the golden hour capture the mist rising from the lake beautifully.
Ima Keithel Aisles: The vibrant colors of traditional Phaneks (skirts) and the expressive faces of the women traders make for excellent street photography. The bustling energy and the symmetry of the stalls provide a unique urban cultural aesthetic. It is a great place to capture the essence of daily life in Imphal.
Kangla Sha Statues: The towering white dragon-lion statues at the entrance of Kangla Fort are perfect for architectural photography. With the historic fort walls in the background, these statues symbolize the royal dignity of the state. Shooting at sunset provides a dramatic silhouette effect against the sky.
Dzukou Valley Meadows: The undulating green hills and the crystal-clear streams of Dzukou Valley offer landscape photography opportunities similar to the Alps. During the flowering season, the contrast of colorful lilies against the green grass is breathtaking. The valley remains untouched, providing a pristine, natural backdrop for every frame.
Shirui Hill Top: The peak of Shirui Hill in Ukhrul offers a 360-degree view of the Eastern Himalayas and the Chindwin mountains in Myanmar. Capturing the rare Shirui Lily in its natural habitat is a prize for macro photographers. The cloud-covered peaks and deep valleys provide a sense of immense scale.Photo Gallery
Things To Do
@@Place Details: @@Commercial Hub: Moreh is a bustling international trade town that serves as a vital link between India and South East Asian nations through Myanmar. The town is a melting pot of cultures, where traders from various ethnic backgrounds like Meiteis, Kukis, Tamils, and Nepalis coexist and conduct business. @@Strategic Importance: Historically, it has been the cornerstone of India's "Act East Policy," facilitating the movement of goods and people across the international boundary. The town's atmosphere is energetic, filled with the sounds of different languages and the sight of exotic goods being transported daily. @@Cultural Diversity: Unlike any other town in Manipur, Moreh has a significant Tamil population that settled here decades ago, leading to the construction of South Indian style temples. This unique cultural blend is reflected in the local food, architecture, and the diverse festivals celebrated with great fervor throughout the year. @@Cross-Border Experience: The proximity to the town of Tamu in Myanmar allows for a unique international experience where visitors can witness the daily interactions of two neighboring nations. The trade markets are the heart of the town, offering everything from electronics and clothing to traditional Burmese handicrafts and food.
@@Overview of the Land: Tamenglong is a rugged hill district known for its dense forests and valleys. It is often referred to as the "Land of the Hornbill" due to the birds. The region is exceptionally rich in biodiversity and exotic flora and fauna. It offers a raw and untouched experience for the adventurous soul.@@Orange Capital: This place is famous across the state as the major producer of oranges. The hills are dotted with vast orange orchards that look stunning in winter. An annual festival is held here to celebrate this citrus fruit's bountiful harvest. The sweet aroma of oranges fills the air during the peak season.@@Tribal Community: The district is primarily inhabited by the Zeliangrong Naga community. Their traditions, folk songs, and dances are deeply rooted in the local nature. They are known for their warm hospitality and strong sense of community. Visitors can learn about their unique history through various village interactions.@@Mystical Landscapes: The topography is marked by deep gorges, high cliffs, and numerous waterfalls. The Barak River flows through the district, creating beautiful series of cascades. It is a land of myths, where every cave and lake has a story. It remains one of the most offbeat and scenic parts of India.
Moirang is a culturally and historically significant town located in the Bishnupur district of Manipur. It holds a pivotal place in the history of India's freedom struggle as the headquarters of the Indian National Army (INA) during World War II. On April 14, 1944, Colonel Shaukat Malik of the INA hoisted the Tricolour for the first time on Indian soil at this very spot. Moirang is also the birthplace of the epic love legend of Khamba and Thoibi, and the ancient temple of Lord Thangjing, which serves as a center for the traditional Lai Haraoba festival. The town is nestled on the banks of Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, and is the gateway to the world's only floating national park, Keibul Lamjao. It offers a unique blend of historical importance, natural wonders, and deep-rooted cultural heritage.
@@Place Details: @@Unique Phenomenon: Phumdis are a heterogeneous mass of vegetation, soil, and organic matter at various stages of decomposition, floating on the surface of Loktak Lake. These are unique to Manipur and vary in thickness, with some being strong enough to support the weight of houses and even a national park. @@National Park: The largest and most significant Phumdi covers an area of 40 sq km and constitutes the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating park in the world. This mass of vegetation is the last natural refuge for the endangered Sangai (brow-antlered deer), which has adapted to "dance" on the spongy surface. @@Livelihood Source: For centuries, the local fishing community has lived on these floating islands in temporary huts called Phumshangs. They use the Phumdis for traditional fishing techniques like "Athaphum," where circular enclosures are created to trap fish, showcasing a deep human-nature synergy. @@Environmental Balance: The Phumdis play a crucial role in the lake's ecosystem by filtering nutrients and providing a breeding ground for various aquatic species and migratory birds. During the dry season, the Phumdis sink to the bottom to absorb nutrients from the soil, rising again when the water levels increase.
@@General Introduction: Ukhrul is a picturesque hill station perched at an altitude of over 5,400 feet. It is the highest district headquarters in the state, offering cool weather. The town is the cultural heart of the Tangkhul Naga community. It is a land of misty peaks, rare flowers, and deep historical roots.@@The Shirui Lily: This place is internationally famous for the Shirui Lily, which grows only here. This rare flower blooms on the Shirui Kashong peak during the month of May. It attracts botanists and nature lovers from all over the world. The flower's delicate beauty is a symbol of the district's unique natural heritage.@@Cultural Identity: The Tangkhul people are known for their distinct art, music, and colorful attire. Their history is marked by a strong warrior tradition and a love for local festivals. Every village in the district has its own dialect and unique cultural nuances. It is a vibrant place where tradition and modernity blend seamlessly.@@World War II History: The district was a significant site of action during the Second World War. Several memorials and battle sites like Shangshak are located in the region. It played a crucial role in the defense of India against the Japanese forces. History enthusiasts will find many interesting relics and stories from that era here.
@@History of Bishnupur: The town was formerly known as Lumlangdong and served as a significant royal seat for the kings of Manipur. It is deeply rooted in the Vaishnavite culture that flourished under King Kyamba in the 15th century. @@Natural Beauty: It is the gateway to the magnificent Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, featuring unique floating islands. @@Cultural Significance: The area is a center for traditional Manipuri dance and ancient craftsmanship, particularly stoneware and pottery that have survived through generations. @@Wildlife Hub: The region houses the world's only floating national park, making it a critical ecological zone for the endangered Sangai deer.
@@Cultural Essence: Kakching is renowned as the cleanest town in the state and serves as a major agricultural hub. The people of Kakching are known for their hard work and dedication to preserving their cultural heritage. The town sits on the banks of the Sekmai River, which adds to its scenic and fertile landscape. It is a place where tradition meets modernity in a very organized and clean environment. @@Agricultural Hub: Often referred to as the granary of Manipur, it produces a vast variety of vegetables and grains. The local markets are famous for fresh produce, especially the unique variety of onions and garlic grown here. Farming is not just a profession but a way of life that is celebrated through various local festivals. The vast stretches of paddy fields around the town offer a serene green vista to visitors. @@Tourism Growth: In recent years, it has emerged as a major tourist destination due to the development of the Kakching Garden. The town's administration and locals have worked together to create beautiful public spaces. These gardens are meticulously maintained and offer world-class facilities to visitors from across the country. It has become a popular spot for weekend getaways for people living in the capital city of Imphal. @@Traditional Arts: Kakching is also a center for traditional Manipuri music and dance forms. The community actively participates in Sankirtana and other ritualistic art forms that are intrinsic to their identity. Local artisans are skilled in making agricultural tools and traditional handlooms that are highly sought after. This rich cultural background makes every visit to the town an educational experience.Show All
@@Vibrant Culture: Locally known as Lamka, it is the second-largest town in Manipur and serves as a major cultural hub for the Zomi and Kuki tribes. @@Rapid Growth: The town has grown from a small village to a bustling urban center, known for its educational institutions and high literacy rates. @@Natural Splendor: Surrounded by rolling hills and rivers, it offers a scenic escape with attractions like the Khuga Dam and numerous waterfalls. @@Handloom Center: The district is famous for its intricate tribal shawls and textiles, which are exported to other parts of India and abroad.Information
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Why Famous:
World's Only Floating Lake: Manipur is home to Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, famous for its floating islands called phumdis. These are circular masses of vegetation, soil, and organic matter that float on the water surface. The lake hosts the...World's Only Floating Lake: Manipur is home to Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, famous for its floating islands called phumdis. These are circular masses of vegetation, soil, and organic matter that float on the water surface. The lake hosts the world's only floating national park, Keibul Lamjao, where the rare Sangai deer resides.
Birthplace of Modern Polo: The state is historically recognized as the birthplace of modern Polo, locally known as Sagol Kangjei. Ancient manuscripts record the game being played by the gods and later adopted by the royalty. The Imphal Polo Ground is one of the oldest functional polo grounds in the world.
Classical Manipuri Dance: Manipur is world-famous for its Raas Leela, a classical dance form that depicts the eternal love of Radha and Krishna. The dance is known for its graceful, fluid movements and the unique cylindrical mirrored skirts called Potloi. It is a spiritual performance that reflects the deep-rooted Vaishnavite culture of the valley. -
Architecture:
Kangla Fort Heritage: The Kangla Fort in Imphal is the pinnacle of Manipuri royal architecture, featuring massive brick walls and sacred temples. Its dimensions span over 237 acres, with an inner moat and outer walls that were historically used for defense. The Kangla Sha,...Kangla Fort Heritage: The Kangla Fort in Imphal is the pinnacle of Manipuri royal architecture, featuring massive brick walls and sacred temples. Its dimensions span over 237 acres, with an inner moat and outer walls that were historically used for defense. The Kangla Sha, dragon-lion statues, represent the spiritual power of the Meitei rulers.
Shree Govindajee Temple Style: This temple is a classic example of the Vaishnavite style, featuring twin gold-plated domes and a large congregation hall. The architecture includes a paved courtyard and raised platforms for ritual performances, measuring roughly 50 feet in height. It reflects a blend of local Manipuri styles with traditional Hindu temple elements.
Bishnupur Vishnu Temple: Built in the 15th century, this temple is famous for its unique terracotta and brickwork with distinct Chinese influence. It is a small structure, approximately 10 meters in height, featuring a conical roof and intricate carvings. The use of small, hard-burnt bricks makes it one of the oldest and most resilient structures in the state. -
How To Reach:
By Air Transport: The Bir Tikendrajit International Airport in Imphal is the primary air gateway to the state. It is well-connected with regular flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bengaluru. The airport is located about 8 kilometers from the city center, and pre-pa... -
Near Tourist Places:
1. Moirang (45 km), 2. Loktak Lake (48 km), 3. Bishnupur (27 km), 4. Ukhrul (84 km), 5. Senapati (62 km), 6. Moreh (110 km), 7. Thoubal (22 km), 8. Churachandpur (63 km), 9. Tamenglong (150 km), 10. Andro Village (25 km).
Tourism Tips
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Health and Safety: Travelers should carry basic medicines for motion sickness, as the hill roads are quite winding. It is important to stay updated on the local political situation and follow any travel advisories issued by the government. Drinking bottled or boiled water ...
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Information about New and Updated Locations(477+) of Manipur Has Been Added :-
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Sakti FallsSophi VillageTolloi VillageTummu VillageWanglei PeakWanglei VillageKhayang WaterfallsLairok Maru Lairok Maru Peak Sirohi National ParkAkham Khou Azuram Community ReservesBarak WaterfallsBuning MeadowDailong VillageDevpriya HillDilji WaterfallDuithailong VillageMore PlacesNote:-
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