Things to do in Manipur

Basic info

The Kangla fort has been the official residence of the royal family till late 19th century. However, during the reign of the Ningthouja dynasty, the palace was not only an important political hotspot but also had immense religious significance in the lives of the royals as well as the locals. The sacred ponds, temples and others structures were regularly worshipped by the royals for good fortune.
The fort met its ultimate downfall in the end of Anglo-Manipur War in

1891. After the war, the British forces publically executed the crown prince and other important members of the royal family. Since then, the fort has been used by the security forces as a base. After independence, the fort has been used by the Assam Riffles as a base till 2004.
Besides this, the massive earthquake in the late 19th century also destroyed the major portions of the citadel. The ruins on the western part of the Imphal River are the only remains of the old fort.

Tourist attractions

Although the major portions of the fort have suffered major decays due to several reasons, the remaining parts of the fort on the western part of the Imphal River can be visitied

by the tourists. The Ruins of the Citadel, Uttra or the old coronation hall, several temples dedicated to the presiding deity of the Ningthouja clan can be visited by the tourists.

Things to do

One can visit the important landmarks within the vicinity of the fort. The temples dedicated to lord Krishna and his consort, Radha, is one of the few surviving temples in the area belonging to the pre independence era. Also, the ruins of the

One can visit the important landmarks within the vicinity of the fort. The temples dedicated to lord Krishna and his consort, Radha, is one of the few surviving temples in the area belonging to the pre independence era. Also, the ruins of the

Basic info

The Khangkhui Cave, or the Khangkhui Mongsor as locals call it, is a limestone cave. According to local legends, these caves were once inhabited by a king named Mangsorwung. He lived there with his two wives and sons and ruled in a just manner. As the locals point out, in one of the largest halls of the caves was his throne room, where he used to hold his court. Although, no definite evidences regarding King Mangsorwung have been

found, archeologists have definitely discovered some proof about human civilization dating back to Paleolithic age. Cave paintings, tools and other artifacts dating back to Paleolithic age have been discovered confirms this notion. Since late 19th century, many explorers have tried to uncover different facets of the caves learning new things about the Paleolithic age. During the WW II these caves were used as a shelter by the locals.

Tourist attractions

The Khangkhui Caves are a popular tourist spot in the Ukhrul district of Manipur. The limestone structure of the caves dating back to the prehistoric times is quite fascinating. The cave is

divided in chambers, each in different sizes. Also, a trip to the nearby Thoubal River is a must for the adventure seekers. The history buffs can admire the Paleolithic paintings done by the early men.

Things to do

Adventurous trip inside the cave is must for the tourists. Also, one can hike towards the nearby Thoubal

Adventurous trip inside the cave is must for the tourists. Also, one can hike towards the nearby Thoubal

Basic info

The beautiful Khonghampat Orchadarium or the State Orchidarium is a beautiful place. Locally it is also referred to as the Orchid House. Spread across 200 acres of land, this park is maintained by the State Forest Department. Here one can find more than 100 varieties of common and rarely found orchids in different shapes and sizes. Generally, orchids survive on the host tree. But in the Khonghampat

Orchadarium, one can see how beautifully the orchids have blended itself with the trees on which they grow. It almost seems as if they are part of a single unity.
During the monsoons, the park is at its full bloom. The park is filled with array of colors and sweet smell of the beautiful flowers. Besides orchids, the Orchidarium is also the house to several unique species of lizards, bees and moths can be found here.

Tourist attractions

According to the official records, Khonghampat Orchadarium, is the home to more than 100 varieties of orchids. Cattleya, Cymbidium Orchids, and Dendrobium are some of the orchids found in the

venue. Besides that, Phalaenopsis orchids in color yellow and pink are also grown here. According to local customs, the given flower is used in traditional Manipuri wedding and other auspicious ceremonies.

Things to do

Orchid enthusiasts should definitely visit the place for watching some extremely rare orchids growing effortlessly. Also, nature lovers can definitely visit the park to soak in the abundant greenery. The tourists can

Orchid enthusiasts should definitely visit the place for watching some extremely rare orchids growing effortlessly. Also, nature lovers can definitely visit the park to soak in the abundant greenery. The tourists can

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The Khongjom War Memorial was built to honor the three martyrs of Meitei community who fought bravely against the British forces in 1891. The memorial was inaugurated by the then president of India, Sri Pranab Mukherjee in 2016. The 30 feet entrance gate, welcomes the tourists to marvel and appreciate the bravery of the soldiers who laid down their lives. Human figures and

canons, on the entrance gate represent the vigilance of the martyrs protecting their motherlands. The vicinity is surrounded by ponds, green parks, leading to a small hillock. On the top of the hill, there are three high towers, which represent the brave heroes who fought the Anglo-Manipur War. The peace and serenity of the complex can definitely have an emotional effect on the visitors.

Tourist attractions

The visit to the memorial is must for people who like to learn about the India prior to being colonized. Also, the lakes and the nearby gardens provide a

good opportunity to relax and unwind after a tiring day doing sightseeing. There is a climb to a small hillock, where three memorial towers have been erected.

Things to do

A trip to the top of the hill, where the memorial towers are standing, is a must. From the top, tourists can have a spectacular view of the nearby areas and the

A trip to the top of the hill, where the memorial towers are standing, is a must. From the top, tourists can have a spectacular view of the nearby areas and the

Basic info

The Khuga dam is an ambitious project aimed at providing hydroelectricity to the nearby areas. The dam is built over an artificial lake and is one of the popular places for sightseeing among locals. The project was initially launched during 1983, but due to several reasons the project was halted for two decades. Later on, in 2002 the project was commenced once again. In 2010, Smt. Sonia Gandhi

inaugurated the partially completed dam, and dedicated it to the people of the region. Most travelers come here to relax and enjoy the tranquility of nature.
The entire project, costing around 2.5 billion rupees, has drastically helped in providing livelihood to the locals in the nearby villages. The water supplied from the dam is used from irrigation, drinking water supply and hydroelectricity.

Tourist attractions

It is one of the most visited tourist’s spots in the region. The area is an important an picnic spot. The scenic beauty of the place and the relaxing atmosphere makes this place a favorite among the tourists. One can have a spectacular view of the area from particular vantage points of the dam. The nearby hillocks are ideal for hiking or trekking.Picnic at the Khuga Dam is

ideal for couples who want to spend some quality time with each other. Also, the nearby lake and the surrounding area near the dam are encircled by natural beauty. Most photo fanatics can have a field trip in this place. Besides that, adventure seekers can go for a hike to the adjacent hillocks. People can also visit the nearby Mara village for experiencing the rustic Manipur.

Things to do

Picnic at the Khuga Dam is ideal for couples who want to spend some quality time with each other. Also, the nearby lake and the surrounding area near the dam are encircled by natural beauty. Most photo

Picnic at the Khuga Dam is ideal for couples who want to spend some quality time with each other. Also, the nearby lake and the surrounding area near the dam are encircled by natural beauty. Most photo

Basic info

Loktak Lake is one of the largest fresh water lakes in India. The word ‘Loktak’ is derived from two words of Metei language. ‘Lok’ refers to stream and ‘Tak’ means the end. The lake is famous for something that locals refer to ‘phumids’. These are heterogeneous mass of soil, vegetation and other organic masses at different stages of breakdown. These phumdis

resemble small islands floating in the lake giving the entire place a surreal feeling.
This lake plays an important significance in the economy of the locals. The lake not only serves as a source of water required for hydropower generation, but it supplies water required for irrigation and other needs. The local fishermen living in the surrounding areas use the lake for fishing.

Tourist attractions

A visit to the Loktak Lake is a must for the nature lovers. It is one of the most beautiful freshwater lakes of the region. It is the home to diverse flora and fauna, giving them a safer sanctuary to sustain. At the Keibul Lamjao National Park, situated in the southwestern part of the Loktak Lake, one can find several endangered species of animals and birds

living peacefully. It is a floating national park, making it more unique.
Also, this place is ideal for wildlife photographers who love to capture birds in their lenses. The commonly sighted birds in the area are East Himalayan pied kingfisher, Burmese pied myna and so on. If one is lucky, birds like lesser eastern jungle crow and black kite can also be seen.

Things to do

Boating at Loktak Lake is a must. To explore the local culture, visitors can make a trip to the local villages like Thanga near the lake. Also, for

Boating at Loktak Lake is a must. To explore the local culture, visitors can make a trip to the local villages like Thanga near the lake. Also, for

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The Lord Sanamahi is one of the oldest deities of the Meitei community of Manipur. The ‘Lainingthou Sanamahi’ is one of the oldest religions of South East Asia, and is still followed by the people of Manipur, Tripura and Assam. The Lord Sanamahi is one of the main deities of the religion and is still worshipped in the temple today. He is similar to the ‘Sun-god’ in the Hinduism and is one of the most important deities of the given religion.

The Lord Sanamahi Temple was built in 1891 by King Kulachandra, the last of the sovereign rulers of Manipur. The temple structure is built on an octagonal base. The arches of the temple are inclined at 45 degrees, giving it a unique look. The external wall of the temple is painted in yellow and white colors. It is the only temple dedicated to the Animism (a belief where objects, creatures and places have a special spiritual significance) tradition of Manipur.

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The Manipur Zoological Garden is one of the beautiful locations in Imphal. The zoological garden, fondly referred as the Jewel Box of Manipur, is the home to more than 400 species of common and rare species animals and birds. According to the Central Zoo Authority, the Manipur Zoological Garden is a medium zoo spreading over the area of 8 hectares.
In the zoological park, the captive breeding of Sangai deer is undertaken in a planned manner. The population of the Sangai

or Brow Antlered Deer was considered as extinct in 1950. However, a small herd of the deer was found in ‘phumdis’, a group of floating island in the Loktak Lake of Manipur. These animals were then taken under the government wing and special measures have been taken to protect them. Captive breeding in the Manipur Zoological Park is one such initiative. The zoo authorities with the help of the State Government have been able to preserve species of endangered birds and animals.

Tourist attractions

The Park has been known to officially conduct captive breeding of Sangai, an endangered deer and the state animal of Manipur. Animal lovers can see other rare species of bird called Nongin. Also, like low Loris, Leopard Cat, Himalayan Bear, Gibbon, Flying

Squirrel and Python are some of the animals can be seen here. The green bushes and trees in the park make it a stunning venue for nature lovers. Nature and wildlife photographers can have a good time photographing the rare avifauna and fauna within the vicinity of the zoo.

Things to do

The Zoological Park is a popular picnic spot among the locals. The trip to Manipur Zoological Park is popular among kids and grownups alike. While here, tourists must

The Zoological Park is a popular picnic spot among the locals. The trip to Manipur Zoological Park is popular among kids and grownups alike. While here, tourists must

Basic info

The Nillai Tea Estate is an upcoming tourist spot that provides an unfiltered view of the nature. Located in the Ukhrul district of Manipur, this place is well known for its flavorful green tea. The tea is handpicked by the locals and sun-dried. The soil as well as the suitable climatic conditions is ideal for growing such a high quality tea. Due to natural

processing of the tea leaves, most connoisseurs of tea can easily identify with the tea from the given area.
The beautiful Talui village, near the tea estate can be visited by nature lovers. The greenery around the region provides a romantic escapade for couples. Probably due to this reason, many honeymooners are choosing this destination for their honeymoon.

Tourist attractions

The beautiful tea estate is ideal for nature lovers. The tourists who want to know about tea processing and other aspects of the trade can pay a visit to the Nillai

Tea Estate. One can also visit the nearby Talui village. Watching tea workers picking up the delicate tea leaves is one of the highlights of the visit to the tea garden.

Things to do

The tea garden is a popular picnic spot for the locals. One can take some stunning pictures of the area, or go for a hike to the nearby hilltop within the

The tea garden is a popular picnic spot for the locals. One can take some stunning pictures of the area, or go for a hike to the nearby hilltop within the

Basic info

The Red Hill Lokpaching or as the locals refer "Maibam Lotpa Ching"played an important part in the history of India. During 1944, the Japanese forces engaged in a gruesome battle with the Commonwealth army. This combat between the two armies is popularly referred to as the ‘Battle of Red Hill’. The fight was fierce resulting in the loss of precious

lives on the both side of the defense force. The sheer amount of bloodshed in the area was huge and quite intense.
Later on, a memorial was built by Japan in collaboration with Indian army. The commemorative structure honors the memory of the brave soldiers who laid down their lives during WW II. The memorial was later remained as the India Peace Memorial.

Tourist attractions

Anyone interested in learning about the WW II, can visit the commemorative building. The India Peace Memorial, built by Japan, honors

the soldiers who led down their lives. Another war memorial was built by the locals, similar to the India Peace Memorial’s basic structure.

Things to do

History buffs can definitely have a field trip at the Red Hill Lokpaching. The memorial has a Japanese Anti-Aircraft gun that was

History buffs can definitely have a field trip at the Red Hill Lokpaching. The memorial has a Japanese Anti-Aircraft gun that was

Basic info

The beautiful Shree Govindajeee temple is one of the largest Vaishnav temples in the Imphal area. Located near the Kangla Fort, this temple was originally built in 1846 by Maharaja Nara Singh. A severe earthquake in 1868 caused a huge damage to the structure of the temple. Later on, Maharaja Chandrakriti rebuilt the temple. The temple has three chambers, dedicated to different gods. The central chamber is dedicated to the Govindaji, one of the many forms of Lord Krishna, and Radha. In

one of the chambers, deities of Balabhadra and Krishna are placed, while in the other chamber Lord Jagannath with his siblings Subhadra and Balabhadra reside.
The temple has a special significant in the lives of the people in the area. The images of Shree Gobindajee and Radha, as well as Jagannath and his siblings, were carved out of special wood. However, the image of Balaram and Krishna are made from Plaster of Paris. On special days, the deities are adorned with jewels and crown.

Basic info

Shree Hanuman Thakur Temple is an important shrine for the people of Imphal. The temple was built on the banks of the Imphal River near the groves of Mongba Hanba. This 18th century temple was commissioned by then king Garib Niwaj. According to Cheitharol Kumbaba, the royal chronicle of Manipur, the deity of Hanuman was carved out from stone. The image of the lord is seen wearing a dhoti similar to a Hindu priest and adorning a Rudraksh mala. A mace (gada) is placed in the

right hand of the idol.
This is the only temple built by the King Garib Niwaj, and was very important to the people of the region. The architecture of the temple resembles the Ekchala (hut style) architecture typical to Bengal. The inner sanctum and the nearby walls are constructed in a rectangular shape, rising up to the roof. On the eastern and western wall have unique windows in triangular shape with nine slits in it. Also, the roof of the temple is designed in a dome shape.

Basic info

Establish in the 1982, the Sirohi National Park is a beautiful place. Home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, one can find some rare species in this reserve. The entire national park stretches around 40 sq km, making it one of the

tiniest national parks in the country. Many rivers and their tributaries originate from the nearby areas. During the monsoons the entire park witnesses the abundant flowering of the orchids, giving this location a something extra to look at.

Tourist attractions

Wildlife lovers can enjoy the pure beauty of nature. Around the area, one can see tigers and leopards in their natural habitat. Also, different species of birds found like the Blyth’s tragopan, owls, and warblers can be seen

wandering freely in the area. This place adds ample opportunity for birdwatchers to observe interesting avifauna in their natural habitat. For photographers interested in wildlife, this place can prove as an interesting subject.

Things to do

Besides the usual visit to the National park, the tourists can go for a hike to the nearby Khayang Peak and Shirui Peak. The peaks provide an

Besides the usual visit to the National park, the tourists can go for a hike to the nearby Khayang Peak and Shirui Peak. The peaks provide an

Basic info

Tourist attractions

Things to do