Manipur is located in North eastern part of India. It is surrounded by beautiful blue hills and has a remarkable beauty. The state is diversified in every sense, including the variety of its breath-taking scenery and the variety of its cultural heritage. The history of Manipur may be traced back to the year 33 A.D., and it was ruled by the kings and for several centuries.
Manipur is widely regarded as the birthplace of modern polo. It is also known as the land with exquisite culture and a diversified ethnicity; nevertheless, much of its wealthy and colourful history is still unknown. There is an abundance of places to go, all of which are rich in natural resources, inhabited by friendly locals, and have a wide variety of attractions and things to do. We went to Manipur in 2021 to celebrate the post Christmas phase and the year end. In this article, I will share information on the 7 places in Manipur that were highlights of our trip and that you shouldn’t miss if you’re planning an enticing vacation to this scenic wonder.
1. Shirui Kashong Peak
Where: Ukhrul
Distance from Imphal: 96 km.
Ideal for: Adventure enthusiast
Located in the Ukhrul district of Manipur, at an elevation of 2,835 metres above sea level, the craggy and misty Shirui Kashong Range rises over the nearby village named Shirui. The terrain is significant because it is the source of numerous major rivers that flow through Ukhrul. Secondly, this is where you can find the rare and beautiful Shirui lilies. The most remarkable characteristic of the flower is that it is unable to be propagated in any other location on the Earth other than on Shirui Hill, which serves as its native habitat.
2. Phangrei Lake
Where: Ukhrul
Distance from Imphal: 102 km.
Ideal for: Picnickers, Adventure enthusiasts
Surrounded by a picturesque hill range, Phangrei is another picturesque tourist spots in Ukhrul district of Manipur. This place is perfect for strolling, camping, and hiking because of its beautiful, varied landscape and breathtaking sunrise views. However, in order to reach the peak of the hill, you will need to walk for at least one hour. When you reach the peak of Phangrei Hill, you will find a surprise waiting for you there. And it’s none other than a serene and gorgeous lake. To the west of the lake sits Myanmar. A day spent on the hilltop will definitely revive you and offer you opportunity to spend some quality time with family and friends.
3. Andro Heritage Village
Where: Imphal
Distance from Imphal: 24 km.
Ideal for: Heritage and History buffs
Another popular tourist destination in the picturesque Imphal district of Manipur is Andro, which is tucked into the forested foothills of the Nongmaiching range. The Manipuri Chakpa people are native to this area and are widely recognised as the region’s earliest settlers. The cultural complex and museum that was constructed in 1993 is the primary attraction of the place. The museum is not like other museums. Instead, it is a collection of thatched huts representing different ethnic Manipuri tribes’ architectural styles.
4. Kangla Fort
Where: Imphal
Distance from Imphal: 3 km.
Ideal for: History and archaeology buffs
Located in the centre of Manipur’s capital, Imphal, the Kangla Fort is widely regarded as one of the country’s most significant historical and archaeological sites. Beginning in 33 A.D. during the reign of the legendary God-king Nongda Lairen Pakhangba and continuing until 1891 A.D. during the reign of Maharaj Kulachandra, the fort served as the centre of the king’s rule. The Manipuri royal family once lived in this fort, but the British and later the Assam Rifles captured it. The Meitei consider Kangla Fort to be one of their most sacred places. They believe that from beneath the Kangla fort, the almighty Lord Pakhangba rules over the kingdom of Manipur.
5. Ima Market
Where: Imphal
Distance from Imphal: 2 km.
Ideal for: Shopaholic
Ima Keithel, also known as Ima Market, is a great example of women’s empowerment in Imphal, which has been going on for 500 years. Ima is the Manipuri word for mother. It is widely believed to be the largest all-women market not only in Asia but also in the entire world. It’s amazing to see local women dressed in traditional attire setting up their shops and stalls every morning as they prepare to welcome throngs of customers. Shopping enthusiasts will find the market to be a real paradise. The shops at the bustling market sell everything from fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices to linens, handicrafts, and wicker goods.
You can find my post on Ima Keithel in LG by clicking this link.
6. Loktak Lake
Where: Bishnupur
Distance from Imphal: 50 km.
Ideal for: Nature lover
Tucked away in the valley of Manipur, Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northeast India. Floating circular swamps, or phumdi in the local language, are one of the main attractions of the lake, which draws tourists from all over the world. In the wee hours of the morning, long fishing boats are perfect for cruising around the lake and taking in the sights. You can also go fishing on one of the fishermen’s islands that are located nearby. Hike up one of the hills that looks out over the lake for breathtaking panoramas of the setting sun and stand in awe as the fiery orb of the sun descends below the horizon. To get a feel for what it’s like to live near the water, you can book a homestay along the lake.
7. Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP)
Where: Bishnupur
Distance from Imphal: 48 km
Ideal for: Wildlife photographer, Nature enthusiasts
Keibul Lamjao National Park, on Loktak Lake, is the last remaining natural habitat of the Sangai, the dancing deer of Manipur, and the only floating National Park in the world. Any person who has a passion for wildlife should absolutely try to catch a glimpse of the deer that inhabit this one-of-a-kind wetland ecosystem. The park comprises of phumdis up to 50 to 75% of its total area and can be accessed through waterways by boats.
There are so many places in Manipur that would leave you dumbfounded. It’s an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil getaway in beautiful surroundings. For an unforgettable vacation, plan a trip to Manipur and visit all of these attractions.