Why did we pick Manipur...
The spell-binding north-eastern states of our country have always called out to our ‘travel soul’. First and foremost, due to their exotic charm of being off the beaten-path. And despite their geographical proximity, they are the perfect representation of India’s sheer diversity.
Our family holiday in Manipur was just that. Our visit to Meghalaya the previous year, had already heightened expectations. And Manipur, did not disappoint, it had all the makings of a Perfect Holiday that was also easy to Plan!
Together with being the birth place of the modern-day Polo, it is also home to the exquisite Ras Leela dance. Manipur is blessed with a unique natural beauty & is the immortalized in history for its storied military past. Yet, there are so may more reasons to visit this ‘Jeweled Land’!
10 Reasons To Visit Manipur
1. Marvel at Loktak – the World’s Only Floating Lake & National Park.
2. Visit the iconic Kangla Fort & reminisce in the grandeur of Manipuri royalty.
3. Wonder at the skilled handiwork of the Andro in the Mutua Heritage Village.
4. Spot the elusive & sacred Sangai, at the Keibul Lamjao National Park.
5. Pay a patriotic homage at the INA Museum & the Khongjom War Memorial.
6. Spend a day exploring the many attractions of the capital – Imphal.
7. Indulge in the rich Manipuri Culture – Dance, Handicraft & Cuisine.
8. Visit Myanmar for a day without a Passport from the border town of Moreh!
9. Day Trips Galore – Singda Dam, Orchidarium, Awunching & Imphal Zoological Park to name a few.
10. Take in the beauty of the Imphal Valley, especially at Ukhrul & Senapati!
Suggested 6-Day Itinerary
Arrive Imphal & Onward to Moreh via Tegnoupal
Arrive into Imphal & head towards the border town of Moreh. Along the way, stop to admire the decorated Kakching Gardens & pay homage to our bravest at the Khongjom War Memorial. Afterwards halt at Gaby’s café which offers delicious local & global cuisine. In addition to, offering stunning views of the picturesque Tegnoupal district. Finally, reach Moreh and rest up for the night.
Half-day trip to Mynamar & onward to Sendra
Wake up to the promise of visiting a new country, however without a passport! Head to the Moreh-Tamu border & once there, hire a local tuk-tuk to get a taste Myanmar. Complete with visits to Pagodas, Monasteries, Temples, Shopping & an excellent Burmese lunch! Afterwards, drive to Sendra for that first look at the incomparable Loktak Lake. Cozy up in your lakeside cottage & see the sky blend into the lake.
In and Around Loktak & Moirang
Firstly, post breakfast drive to the Keibul Lamjao National Park. Once there, keep your eyes peeled as you wind around the floating lake to the viewing platform . The locals believe this endangered & elusive Brow-Antlered Deer as the link between nature & humankind! Afterwards, make your way to the Tourist Boating Center and charter a boat to one of the floating villages. Along the way admire the ‘Phumdis’ and see the locals go about their everyday. Return to your lakeside perch & enjoy sipping another evening tea. Put your feet up for the day.
Moirang to Imphal via Loukoipat & India Peace Memorial
Start the day on a patriotic note as you visit the INA Museum. Later en route to Imphal, stop to admire the calm of the Loukoipat Ecological Park & the India Peace Memorial. After satiating hunger pangs with sumptuous local fare, choose to experience the chaos in Ima Keithel (Asia’s Largest women-run market). Conversely, do a quick stop by the Shaheed Minar at the Bir Tikendrajit Park. In addition, peek into the adjoining Mapal Kangjeibung – possibly the world’s oldest Polo Ground!
Imphal, Santhei Park & Andro Village
It’s a day to seep into Manipuri heritage. Firstly, visiting the famed Kangla Fort with its artificial lake, gardens, Hijagang & Govindaji Temples. Together with a quick tour of the small yet impressive Manipur State Museum. Thereafter, head to a picnic lunch at the verdant Santhei Natural Park. Once over there, admire the many stalls showcasing the famous Andro clayware & pottery. Afterwards, a walk into the past awaits in the form of the elaborate Mutua Heritage Village complex. Return towards Imphal to call it a day.
Imphal, Awunching, Singda & Zoo
Begin with a somber yet peaceful Imphal War Cemetery. Thereafter followed by a fun visit to the colorful & decorated Awunching Park. Later, head to the Singda Dam, which doubles up an adventurous hike to the reservoir head. Afterwards, head to the Manipur Zoological Garden to visit its many residents. Finally, head back to Imphal with an optional stop at the State Orchidarium!
For More Details
Click here to read our detailed blog on Manipur with in-depth information on expenses, best time to visit, where to stay, must-do highlights & unique experiences, what to do with additional days, souvenirs, food & drink, logistics & much more...
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