Why Visit Manipur?
Nestled in the folds of the Eastern Himalayas, Manipur is often called the “Jewel of India” — and rightly so. With its floating lakes, misty mountains, martial arts, and melodies of Manipuri dance, the state offers a kind of beauty that flows deeper than the eye. It’s a land of story and silence, of ritual and rhythm, waiting to be felt more than seen.
Top Places to Visit in Manipur
Loktak Lake – The Floating Heart
India’s only floating lake, home to phumdis (floating biomass)
Visit Sendra Island for panoramic views
Boat ride at sunrise is a must-experience moment of peace
Keibul Lamjao National Park
The world’s only floating national park
Sanctuary for the endangered Sangai deer, also known as the “Dancing Deer of Manipur”
Spot rare birds and immerse in untouched wetland biodiversity
Imphal – The Cultural Capital
Visit the Kangla Fort – once the seat of the Manipuri kingdom
Ima Keithel (Mother’s Market): Asia’s largest all-women-run market
Manipur State Museum – a great introduction to local crafts, dance, and culture
Ukhrul – The Land of the Tangkhul Tribes
Misty mountains, tea gardens, and vibrant tribal culture
Visit Shirui Hills to witness the rare Shirui Lily (blooms in May-June)
Trekking, village walks, and storytelling with locals
Moreh – The Indo-Myanmar Border Town
A unique border market with Burmese & Indian influences
Great for cross-cultural shopping, cuisine, and experiencing the edge of India
Culture, Dance & Festivals
Ras Lila Dance: A classical Manipuri dance expressing Radha-Krishna love — delicate, graceful, spiritual
Thang-Ta: Traditional martial art of sword and spear fighting
Lai Haraoba Festival: Celebration of deities with dance, rituals, and folk theatre
Yaoshang (Holi of Manipur): Blends color, sports, and indigenous games
Where to Shop & What to Buy
| Item | Where |
|---|---|
| Handwoven Shawls & Phaneks | Ima Market, Khwairamband Bazaar |
| Cane and Bamboo Crafts | Ukhrul, Churachandpur |
| Black Pottery | Andro Village |
| Organic Tea & Pineapples | Loktak region, local tribal markets |
What to Eat in Manipur
Eromba – mashed boiled vegetables with fermented fish and chili
Nga Thongba – fish curry with local herbs
Chak Hao (Black Rice) Pudding – aromatic and unique to the region
Singju – spicy salad made from seasonal vegetables
Bamboo Shoot Dishes – sour, tangy, and deeply local
Vegetarians will find many flavorful options; food is light, earthy, and deeply connected to the land.
Best Time to Visit
October to March: Best for sightseeing, festivals, and trekking
April to June: Pleasant but slightly warm
July to September: Monsoons make everything lush, but some areas become slippery
Where to Stay
| Type | Recommendations |
|---|---|
| Budget | Hotels in Imphal town (Classic Hotel, Sangai Continental) |
| Boutique | Loktak Eco Resort, Sendra Park Cottages |
| Cultural | Tribal homestays in Ukhrul or Senapati |
| Offbeat | Andro village cottages for pottery and culture lovers |
Suggested 4-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Imphal → Explore Kangla Fort, Ima Market, local museum
Day 2: Visit Loktak Lake → Keibul Lamjao Park → Sunset at Sendra Island
Day 3: Head to Ukhrul – hike Shirui Hills, interact with Tangkhul tribe
Day 4: Cultural trail – Black pottery at Andro village → return to Imphal
Travel Tips from AzaadiRoutes
Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for Indian citizens — apply online or at Imphal
English is widely understood, but Meitei is the local tongue
Photography inside temples or tribal homes requires permission
Be respectful of cultural sensitivities — Manipur values tradition deeply
Cash is still king in remote areas; ATMs available mostly in cities
From AzaadiRoutes:
“Manipur doesn’t scream for attention — it offers a hand to walk with.
Through every lotus pond, drumbeat, and floating hut,
it teaches that peace isn’t found in silence — it’s grown in identity.”