Things To Do in Manipur

From the beautiful Loktak Lake, which is the largest freshwater lake in northeast India, to Ima Keithel which is crowded with women selling wares, Manipur tourism does not come short of options. If you want a serene holiday or you want to indulge in activities full of biological diversity, Manipur Tour Packages will surely impress you. Let us discover the top 10 things to do in Manipur that will leave you impressed.

A handsome gift of Mother Nature, Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in North East India. It is the only lake in the whole world located in the northeastern state of Manipur, India. Covering a substantial area of over 286 square kilometres, this atypical wetland system is famous for its phumdis or floating islands. The most important attraction on the lake is situated in Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is the only floating national park in the world and the last natural reserve for the endangered Sangai or Marsh deer which is an animal state of Manipur.

This lake is a wonderful place for ornithologists and wayfarers, gaining instant praise with a staggering diversity of more than two hundred and thirty types of aquatic flora and more than one hundred species of birds. The lake is best viewed early in the morning when it is covered with mist, which is caused by the late rise of the sun, and thus possesses a real fairy-like, reminiscent of a rather good atmosphere. More than one hundred thousand tourists visit the lake every year which makes the Silk Lake of Manipuri tourism and the importance of any Manipur tour Package.

Ima Keithel also called the Mother’s Market is another interesting place to visit in Manipur and it seems to be built differently than most places. This Imphal-based market, which is the largest in Asia, is run exclusively by women’s participation. With the market for over 500 years and counting, Ima Keithel is seldom a market but a projection of the high regard enjoyed by the women of Manipuri society.

As you walk about in the colourful and narrow pavements of Ima Keithel, you will find more than 5000 Imas, mothers, who will be selling everything from vegetables and masalas to textiles and craftwork. It is one of the things to do in Manipur for anyone interested in immersing oneself in the culture of the place.

For those who are adventurous, Tharon Cave is a must-visit place in Manipur. The nearly 655-meter-long Tharon cave is one of the inhabited sites in Northeast India, and this cave is said to hold evidence of human existence, dating back to the Paleolithic period.

Tharon Cave is a thrilling place to visit. While slotting in those hares and rabbits in the excavated gravel and dust, you will find surprising rock formations and underground streams which add to the elegance of the cave. There is the thrill of adventure brought about by the internal acoustics of the cave. There are such tours that tell that there were ways of life that employed crude stones, other animals, and their bones. At present the cave marks an average of 5,000 visitors per year but it is quite obvious that its desire towards adventure frog heads and fans of excavating is increasing.

Tucked away at the hilly surroundings of Iroisemba Hills, there is also a fascinating site, the Manipur Zoological Garden, which provides leisure in the wilderness. This poaching-free zoo which covers an area of 8 hectares of land, has a number of animals some of which are endangered species within the country.

It is possible, for example, to show Hutcherson the strange Hoolock Gibbons above for what is fairly argumentative purposes. However, the main attraction here is the Sangai deer exhibited in a habitat simulation. Visitors can also get access to the butterfly park and the aquarium, which makes it fun for people of all age groups. The small guts very much appreciated a mini-train ride which goes around the zoo and this provided a good chance to relate and learn. More than 200,000 visitors come to the Manipur Zoological Garden each year, and more importantly, it helps raise interest in wildlife protection in the region. This is why it is an unavoidable attraction in any Manipur tour package.

If historical cultures may be your cup of tea, The Manipur State Museum located in Imphal is highly recommended. Founded in 1969, this museum, which signifies the history of Manipur, boasts everything from prehistoric implements to modern-day paraphernalia.

During the course of your trip inside the museum galleries, your attention is drawn to different objects on display: ancient stone sculptures, tribal ornaments, other decorative items, traditional costumes, and regal attire. The ethnography section of the museum is quite interesting, as it deals with the tribes of Manipur and their lifestyle. For the royal emblems, it holds the likes of the Manipuri kings’ crown to ceremonial swords. Over 50,000 visitors visit the Manipur State Museum every year making it an important knowledge centre for local people as well as guests. 

For all those who are in love with nature, Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the places to visit when in Manipur. This wildlife sanctuary is located in the Chandel district and encompasses an area of 184 sq km with a variety of ecosystems comprising tropical semi-evergreen forests, grasslands and wetlands.

Whether one chooses to walk around the sanctuary or ride in a jeep safari, there is a likelihood of seeing various fauna including the Hoolock Gibbon, the Slow Loris, and the Clouded Leopard which are all endangered species. Mrs Hume’s Pheasant and Blyth’s Tragopan are some of the rare birds that will leave bird watchers in awe. Given the geography of the sanctuary, it has numerous scenic spots from where one can have a clear view of the hills and valleys. The most favourable weather and wildlife activity is between the months of November and April, and most people prefer to visit the park during this time. This sanctuary gives habitat to more than 200 species of birds and 30 species of mammals.

Kangla Fort, located in the centre of Imphal, is one of the sites which reflects the history of the royal figure of Manipur. These buildings spread over a vast area that was formerly the abode and seat of the Meetei kings and, therefore, speak volumes of the cultural and political history of the state.

On entering the premises of Kangla Fort, tourists are welcomed with exquisite lawns and cool, calm water bodies forming the distinct features of the Citadel, Coronation Hall and Shri Govindajee and Pakhangba temples, which are all historic structures. There is also the Hijagang, where copies of traditional boats of Manipur are displayed. The museum, which is part of the complex, consists of engravings and numerous items that allow a better understanding of the past of Manipur and its rulers. Kangla Fort is also a city of artists and people of art and craft who organise festivals and other events all throughout the year. The area’s recent restorations have increased the number of visitors, now over 300,000 each year.

Adventurists consider the Barak River, which flows out of the hills of Manipur, to be their Eden. It is this aspect of the Barak that tourists flock to as part of the beauty and or the thrill of water sports and other adventure spurts.

In regard to recreational activities on the river Barak, white water rafting dominates, with several grades of rapids available. A mild kayaking experience may also be available on the calm parts of the river, or one may take a gentle float on the river in a boat. Fishing for the local Mahseer fish can also be rewarding. River banks seem to be suitable for camping. 

Ukhrul has become a popular destination as it is endowed with stunning natural beauty, spirited Tangkhul Naga culture, and enticing weather, which makes it perfect for a break away from the noise and pace of urban living. The winding roads will also offer you mesmerising views of fog-covered hills and green valleys as you ascend. The town is renowned for its unique Shirui Lily flower, which only blooms in the Shirui hills of Ukhrul. If you manage to visit in the month of May, don't miss attending the lively celebration of the Shirui Lily festival, which advocates this flower and Tangkhul culture with all vibrance.

Visit some local bazaars to buy Tangkhul shawls and other ornamental products made by hand. Visit a traditional Tangkhul village as they are with very rich people in terms of culture and peaceful coexistence with different tribes. If you are looking for adventure, you can trek up to Shirui Peak, where breathtaking views of the landscapes below are accessible. 

This is one of the most active and colourful markets as it is filled with a range of items, including electronics, garments, handicrafts, and spices, among others.

Moreh Market is home to traders from both India and Myanmar, which has made it a cultural exchange market. It is just more than a market and a constant engagement of wilful sellers and buyers, which are filled with lots of haggles, arguments and very well-worn items on display. Difficult to miss are several Manipuri hand-woven fabrics, Burmese wooden boxes with lacquer coating, and herbal products that are advancing on the market. The market is equally very busy, especially with regard to food, as there are a number of foods that serve traditional Manipuri and Burmese dishes.