A travel Guide to Imphal

Manipur, one of the seven sisters in India, is blessed with beautiful waterfalls and lakes, breathtaking hilltops and valleys making it one of the most popular travel destinations across the country. The numerous tribes that inhabit this land bring along rich culture and traditions through folk songs and dance forms. Whether you’re an offbeat traveller, someone who wants to rejuvenate amidst the serene beauty and natural music of this place or you’re an adventure seeker, Manipur tourism caters to all.

Manipur India shares its border with Assam, Nagaland, Mizoram and Myanmar. Some of the popular Manipur tourist attractions are Dzokou Valley, Manipur State Museum, Shri Govindjee Temple, Ningombam Bazaar, Zeilad Lake and many others. If you’re planning to visit Manipur here’s a precise Manipur travel guide that can help you plan your itinerary.

Here’s a list of things you can indulge in during your visit to Manipur

Trekking to Dzukou Valley

One of the top Manipur attractions, the Dzukou Valley is also known as the ‘Valley of Flowers of the East’. It is situated at an altitude of 2462 m above sea level on the border of Nagaland and Manipur. A trek to this place takes you through the pristine beauty of the valley and the gardens of rare exotic Lilies. It is a major tourist attraction among adventure seekers and photographers who can capture some of their best works of nature photography at this place.

Visit Manipur District Museum

Situated in the capital city, District Museum is one of the top Manipur attractions. It was established in 1969 and inaugurated by our former Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi. It exhibits the culture and heritage of the tribes who are inhabiting the marvellous land of Manipal through artefacts. The museum also houses ornaments, sculptures and photographs that depict the history of this state. The main highlight is the 54-feet-long gold-plated boat called Hiyag Hiren. This Museum is managed by the Manipal tourism department and the state government.

Pay your respects at the Khongjom War Memorial

Khongjom War Memorial is located 36 km from the capital city, Imphal. It was established in memory of the people who lost their lives during the Anglo-Manipur War. Major Brajabashi is remembered for fighting with all the courage against the invasion of the Britishers during the year 1891. 23rd April is celebrated as Khongjom Day and if you’re visiting at this time, then the War Memorial is the place to be. Remember the sacrificed lives of the people who fought bravely for their native land.

Shopping in the local markets

The culturally rich state of Manipur is famous for its handicrafts and textile. You can take a stroll down the local bazaar only to be drawn by the beautiful local products like dreamcatchers, jewellery, shawls and other apparels which you can take as a souvenir for your loved ones back at home.

Try out the local delicacies of Manipur

When in Imphal, it is extremely important for you to taste authentic Manipuri cuisine. Influenced by Tibetan cuisine, the local Manipuri delicacies have beautiful flavours and enchanting aroma. Grab yourself a plate of all the famous dishes like Kanshoi, Eromba, and Paaknam.

Visit Manipur Zoological Park

Located 8 km from the city centre, Manipur zoological Park is home to several animals who are being preserved from getting endangered. You can visit the park amidst thick forests, go for a wildlife safari and click pictures of nature. This is a famous spot among birdwatchers as you can notice some rare species as well. Just a walk through the trails of this forest leaves a rejuvenating effect on the mind and soul.

Best time to visit Manipur

Travellers can take a trip to Manipur whenever they wish as it is a year-round holiday destination, however the best time to visit Manipur is between the months of October and March, the weather is pleasant making it a memorable experience for its visitors.

Manipur hosts several festivals during the winter months such as the Hornbill Festival in December, Gaag Ngai in December or January, and Sekreny in February; making winters and the onset of summers the best season to visit Manipur.

How to reach Manipur

Now when it comes to how to reach Manipur, the answer is very simple. Manipur is accessible by all means of transport i.e airways, railways, and by road. However, flights are the most convenient way to set out on your journey to Manipur.

By Air

Tourists can take direct flights to Imphal, the capital city which houses the airport. The airport operates flights to the nearby cities of the seven sisters as well as other major Indian cities like Kolkata and Delhi. If you’re a foreign tourist, all you have to do is fly to one of these cities and then go ahead on your journey to Manipur.

By Railways

Manipur doesn’t have its own railway station. The nearest railway station that will connect you to Manipur is the Dimapur Railway Station in Nagaland. Tourists can get buses or taxis at the railway station that will take them ahead to their hotels in Imphal or other cities of Manipur.

By Road

The road network to Manipur is pretty efficient. You can hop on a Manipur State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) or other private buses and enjoy the scenic beauty during the journey. Road trips are advisable only if you’re travelling from nearby cities and towns otherwise the journey can get really tiring.