Located in Northeast India amidst breath-taking blue hills, Manipur is amazingly soul captivating. The state is diverse in every way, whether it be in terms of natural beauty or cultural diversity. Ruled by kings for over centuries, the ancient history of Manipur dates back to 33 A.D. The birthplace of Modern Polo, a land of exquisite culture and diverse ethnicity, the rich and vibrant past of Manipur still remains unexplored.
The Jewel Land of India has a plethora of destinations to explore, all of which are endowed with nature's bounty, friendly locals, and a plethora of sightseeing and activity possibilities. Here is a list of the top 12 places in Manipur that you should not miss if you're planning an exciting vacation to this scenic wonder.
1. Shirui Kashong Peak
Where: Ukhrul
Distance from Imphal: 96 km.
Ideal for: Adventure enthusiast
Lying at an altitude of 2,835 m above sea level, the jaggedly misty Shirui Kashong Range resides near the village of Shirui in the Ukhrul district of Manipur. This place is famous for two main reasons - most of the important rivers that pass through Ukhrul originate on the slopes and crevices of the peak. Secondly, it is the place where the famous Shirui lilies grow. The supreme feature of the flower is that it cannot be transplanted anywhere else on the face of the Earth except in Shirui Hill, its natural habitat.
2. Phangrei Lake
Where: Ukhrul
Distance from Imphal: 102 km.
Ideal for: Picnickers, Adventure enthusiasts
Surrounded by a picturesque hill range, Phangrei is one of the picturesque tourist spots in Ukhrul district of Manipur. With incredibly rich scenery and outstanding sunrise views, this is an ideal spot for a leisure stroll, camping, and hiking. To get to the top of the hill, you'll need to walk for at least one hour. A surprise awaits you at the top of Phangrei Hill. And it's none other than a tranquil and lovely lake. On the western direction of the lake, Myanmar is there. A day spent on the hilltop will undoubtedly rejuvenate you and provide you with some quality time to spend with family and friends.
3. Andro Heritage Village
Where: Imphal
Distance from Imphal: 24 km.
Ideal for: Heritage and History buffs
Nestled in the forested foothills of the Nongmaiching range, Andro is located in the picturesque Imphal district of Manipur. This place is home to the Manipur Chakpa community, who are thought to be the region's earliest settlers. The main attraction here is a cultural complex cum museum which was built in 1993. The museum does not resemble a conventional museum. Rather, it is a congregation of several thatched huts, built following the styles of various ethnic Manipuri tribes.
4. Kangla Fort
Where: Imphal
Distance from Imphal: 3 km.
Ideal for: History and archaeology buffs
Being one of the most important historic and archaeological sites, the Kangla Fort is located in the heart of the capital city of Manipur- Imphal. From the reign of the legendary God-king Nongda Lairen Pakhangba in 33 A.D. until Maharaj Kulachandra in 1891 A.D., the fort was the traditional seat of kingly governance. Once the home of the Manipuri royals, the fort was soon overrun by the British and later the Assam Rifles. The Meitei people believe Kangla Fort to be one of their holiest sites. They believe that the almighty Lord Pakhangba rules the kingdom of Manipur from beneath the Kangla fort.
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 thought to be World's, if not Asia's, largest all-women market. It is an amazing sight to see local women dressed in traditional dresses setting up their shops and stalls every morning as they get ready to welcome scores of customers. The market is truly a paradise for shopping-lovers. The shops at the bustling market serve to all the needs of locals and tourists, from fresh fruits, vegetables, and spices to linens, handicrafts, and wicker products.
6. Khangkhui Cave
Where: Ukhrul
Distance from Imphal: 95 km.
Ideal for: Caving, Adventure enthusiasts
Caves are not everyone's cup of tea, but those who become thrilled at the prospect of entering a dark hole in the ground, caves are wonderful source of adventure, a lot of fun for sure. Manipur is home to some of the country's darkest and deepest caves, making it one of India's most fascinating caving destinations. And among them, Khangkhui Cave is one of the best. In the midst of millions of stalagmites and stalactites growing all over the cave, it narrates the story of a distant past. T Archaeologists unearthed valuable artefacts dating back to the Palaeolithic period in and around the cave. Isn't it enthralling?
7. Loktak Lake
Where: Bishnupur
Distance from Imphal: 50 km.
Ideal for: Nature lover
Nestled in the valley of Manipur, Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northeast India. The lake attracts visitors from all over the world due to its ethereal beauty and floating circular swamps known as phumdi in the local language. In the early hours of the morning, you can explore the lake by boating in long fishing boats. You can also go fishing on one of the nearby fishermen islands. Hike to any of the hills overlooking the lake for spectacular sunset views and watch in awe as the sun's burning orb slides down the horizon. One can book a homestay along the lake to get a first-hand experience of life by the lake.
8. Dzukou Valley
Where: Senapati
Distance from Imphal: 115 km.
Ideal for: Nature lover, Adventure enthusiast
Dzukou Valley in Senapati district is often described as an epitome of eternal beauty, with lush green trees, beautiful valleys, crystal clear water, and a calming ambiance The Valley, on the border of Nagaland and Manipur, is a wonderland of exquisite landscapes with foggy clouds and breath-taking views. Dzukou Valley is an ideal destination for those adventurers who love to break a sweat through hiking and trekking. So, if you are someone who loves to adore the beauty of mother nature or loves to trek on an adventurous trail surrounded by the lavishing nature then Dzukou Valley is the place which is just meant for you.
9. Moreh border
Where: Chandel
Distance from Imphal: 108 km.
Ideal for: Shopaholic, Xenophile, Nature lover
On the India-Myanmar border, Moreh is a commercial hub of Manipur and is often touted as India’s Gateway to South-East. The resplendent nature of the place attracts a lot of tourists round the year. Furthermore, the region is well-known for its cultural richness. The busy commercial town of Moreh is a paradise for shopping lovers. From Manipuri handicrafts and electronic items to daily consumables, the town's bustling markets are lined with stores selling everything that a tourist needs.
10. Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP)
Where: Bishnupur
Distance from Imphal: 48 km
Ideal for: Wildlife photographer, Nature enthusiasts
The only floating National Park in the world, the Keibul Lamjao National Park located on the Loktak Lake is the last natural habitat of the 'Sangai', the dancing deer of Manipur. A glimpse of the deer in this unique wetland ecosystem is a must for any wildlife enthusiast. The park comprises of phumdis up to 50 to 75% of its total area and can be accessed through waterways by boats.
11. Willong Khullen
Where: Senapati
Distance from Imphal: 117 km.
Ideal for: Archaeology and history buffs
Located in the remote mountains of northern Manipur, the magnificent collection of standing stones of Willong Khullen is one of the most mysterious and unstudied sacred places in the state. There are about 150 standing stones, some of which are as tall as 23 feet. The place is located on the slopes of the valley and offers a breath-taking spot for the travellers. It is said that the stones are uncountable as there is a spirit that would confuse you midway while counting. Each Stone has its own stories to share. All of the stones, according to a local villager, have their own names and really converse to each other at night.
12. Zeilad Lake
Where: Tamenglong
Distance from Imphal: 160 km.
Ideal for: Nature buffs
The Tamenglong district of Manipur has the greatest number of lakes and Zeilad Lake is one of them, as well as the most famous. Situated on a high platform up on the hill, the lake is known for its scenic setting and abundance of adventure opportunities. It is surrounded by dense forests and plantations. The tranquil environment encircling the lake will surely rejuvenate you. Zeilad Lake is also well-known for its exotic biodiversity, since it is home to a variety of animals and birds.
There are so many places in Manipur that would leave you dumbfounded. It is a true paradise for nature lovers and a wonderful place to visit for a relaxed vacation. Plan a trip to Manipur and see all of these sites for a memorable vacation.
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