Manipur Tourism
- Historical Palaces and Monuments: Discover royal heritage at Kangla Fort, ancient temples, and royal palaces that showcase Manipur’s fascinating history.
Spiritual and Pilgrimage Sites: Visit sacred shrines like Shree Govindaji Temple and Ningthoukhong, reflecting deep-rooted spiritual traditions.
Lakes and Scenic Beauty: Experience the serene Loktak Lake with its floating phumdis, and enjoy peaceful boat rides amid picturesque landscapes.
Cultural Festivals: Witness the vibrant Lai Haraoba festival, traditional Manipuri dance, and colourful local celebrations.
- Handicrafts and Art: Explore exquisite handwoven textiles, intricate bamboo crafts, and unique traditional art forms.
• Wildlife and Nature: Spot rare species like Sangai deer at Keibul Lamjao National Park and enjoy lush hills and forests.
• Adventure and Hill Stations: Trek in the scenic hills of Ukhrul and Churachandpur for breathtaking views and fresh air.
• Cuisine and Local Flavours: Savour authentic Manipuri cuisine, from Eromba to Ngari, and enjoy local food experiences.
About Manipur
Located in the north-eastern region of India, Manipur shares its borders with Nagaland, Mizoram, Assam, and Myanmar. Surrounded by green, lush valleys and peaceful lakes, the state exudes a pristine beauty that's difficult to discover anywhere else. Occupied by varied ethnic groups, Manipuri culture is based on music, dance, and traditional handicrafts. Ranging from the globally renowned Ras Leela dance to the floating islands on Loktak Lake, Manipur tourism harmoniously mixes cultural refinement with natural beauty. It's an adventurer's heaven, offering authenticity and serenity in each nook.
Explore its tranquil lakes, sacred temples, and scenic valleys with the best Manipur tours and packages for a truly unforgettable escape.
Quick Important Facts and Information about Manipur
| Region | North-eastern India |
| Establishment | Establishment 21st January 1972 (as a full-fledged state) |
| Official Language | Meitei (Manipuri) |
| Other Spoken Language | English, Hindi, Naga dialects, and regional tribal languages |
| Airports in Manipur | Imphal International Airport |
| Popular Tourist Places | Imphal, Moirang, Ukhrul, Churachandpur, Moreh |
| Popular Tourist Attractions | Loktak Lake, Keibul Lamjao National Park, Kangla Fort, Shree Govindaji Temple, Khongjom War Memorial, Ima Keithel Market |
| Best Time to Visit | October – March |
Top Tourist Places to Visit in Manipur
Imphal – The Heart of Manipur
The capital city of Imphal is a cultural and historical centre. Visit the Kangla Fort, the erstwhile royal throne of Manipuri kings, and pay respects at the Ima Keithel or "Mother's Market," the only all-women-run marketplace in the world. For a look into the state's rich heritage, don't miss the Manipur State Museum.
Loktak Lake – The Floating Wonder
Manipur's pride, Loktak Lake, is the biggest freshwater lake in Northeast India. Its distinctive phumdis (floating islands) are a sight to behold. The nearby Keibul Lamjao National Park, where the rare Sangai deer roams, provides an unparalleled wildlife experience.
Moirang – The Land of Legends
Moirang is rich in history and legend. Visit the INA Memorial, where the Indian National Army hoisted its flag during India’s freedom struggle. The town also provides direct entry to Loktak Lake and the picturesque Sendra Island, a great destination for boating and photography.
Ukhrul – The Land of the Tangkhul Nagas
A hill station surrounded by misty peaks, Ukhrul is spellbound by tourists for its rolling hills and state flower, the rare Shirui Lily. Perfect for trekking and nature walks, this lovely town personifies the aura of peace.
Moreh – The Gateway to Myanmar
Located on the Indo-Myanmar border, Moreh is a bustling trade town that provides the gateway to Southeast Asia by way of the Tamu border market. It's a great place for cross-cultural shopping and indulgence in fusion food.
Bishnupur – The Town of Temples
Renowned for its old Vaishnavite temples, Bishnupur has the Rasmancha Temple and Jorebangla Temple, which are famous for their exquisite architecture. The peaceful surroundings of the temple make it a tranquil haven.
Chandel – The Cultural Haven
From serene lakes to sacred shrines, Manipur tours and packages let you explore destinations that beautifully combine nature, spirituality, and culture.
Top Things to Do in Manipur
Manipur offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and adventure, making it an ideal destination for all kinds of travelers. Manipur Tours and Travels provides opportunities to explore scenic landscapes, rich traditions, and historical sites across the state.
- Boat Ride on Loktak Lake – Glide over the tranquil waters of Asia’s only floating lake and witness the unique phumdis (floating islands) up close.
- Ras Leela Performance – Experience the classical Manipuri dance that beautifully depicts the divine love story of Radha and Krishna.
- Ima Keithel Shopping – Explore Asia’s largest women-run market, offering handmade jewellery, traditional textiles, and fresh organic produce.
- Visit Keibul Lamjao National Park – Experience the world’s only floating national park, habitat of the endangered Sangai deer, and rich aquatic flora and fauna.
- Trekking in Ukhrul and Tamenglong – Embark on scenic treks across hills, waterfalls, and tribal villages, experiencing breathtaking views and local culture.
- Visit War Cemeteries in Imphal – Pay homage to soldiers who fought during World War II while learning about the region’s historical significance.
Whether you seek adventure, culture, or nature, Manipur tours and packages ensure unforgettable experiences, connecting you with the heart of this vibrant North-eastern state.
How To Reach Manipur?
By Air :
The nearest airport is Bir Tikendrajit International Airport (Imphal), well-connected to Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati.
By Rail :
The closest major railhead is Dimapur (Nagaland), about 215 km away, with bus and taxi services to Imphal.
By Road :
Manipur is linked by National Highway 2 and NH 37 to Assam and Nagaland. Regular buses and taxis make intercity travel convenient.
Easy connectivity enhances the appeal of Manipur tours and travel packages for both domestic and international travelers.
Important Travel Tips for Manipur
- The best time to visit Manipur is between October and April, when the weather is cool and pleasant.
- Dress modestly and comfortably; light woollens may be needed during winter.
- Hire local guides for trekking or village visits to understand cultural nuances.
- Avoid isolated areas after dark.
- Keep a copy of your ID and permit handy while traveling.
Follow these Manipur travel tips to ensure a safe and memorable trip.
Fairs and Festivals of Manipur
Manipur is renowned for its vibrant festivals that reflect the state's glorious cultural heritage. They are more than rites; they present a glimpse of Manipuri existence, traditions, and arts. Visiting them through Manipur tours and travel packages enables tourists to experience the state's vibrant culture in its truest sense.
- Yaoshang (Manipur Holi) – Lasts five days in March, Yaoshang has traditional games, music, dance, and vibrant celebrations that represent joy and camaraderie.
- Lai Haraoba – A local deity-oriented festival, it involves ritual dances and ceremonies that tell the Meitei people's creation myths, upholding age-old traditions.
- Ningol Chakouba – A domesticated festival where married daughters come to their parental house for a grand meal, reinforcing family bonds and community cohesion.
- Kang Festival (Rath Yatra) – A nine-day Vaishnavite festival characterized by vibrant chariot processions of Lord Jagannath that draw devotees as well as cultural enthusiasts.
- Kut Festival – Celebrated by the Kuki-Chin-Mizo tribes at the conclusion of the harvest season, it is a celebration of gratitude and plenty through music, dance, and communal banquets.
Experiencing these festivals offers a perfect blend of tradition, art, and communal joy, making Manipur tourism an enriching cultural journey for every visitor.
Things to Know Before Visiting Manipur
- Indian tourists must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) before entering Manipur.
- English and Manipuri are commonly spoken in urban areas, making communication easier.
- ATMs are limited in remote regions — carry sufficient cash.
- Check weather forecasts before visiting hill destinations.
Booking through trusted Manipur tours and travel packages ensures a safe, smooth, and well-guided journey across the state.
Religious Tourism in Manipur
Religion forms a vital part of Manipur tourism, with temples, monasteries, and holy sites scattered across the landscape. The inhabitants of Manipur are Hindu, Christian, and hold traditional tribal faiths in an atmosphere of peaceful cohabitation.
- Shree Govindajee Temple, in Imphal, is one of the most sacred shrines of the state. Its twin domes of gold and peaceful courtyard are sought after by devotees throughout the year.
- Sanamahi Temple showcases the ancient Meitei faith, dedicated to Lainingthou Sanamahi, the household deity of the Meitei community.
- Bishnupur Temples are classic examples of blending traditional Manipuri and Bengali styles of architecture, signifying the Vaishnavite impact that pervaded in the 15th century.
- Christian Churches in Ukhrul and Churachandpur also play a significant role in local spiritual life, surrounded by serene landscapes perfect for meditation and reflection.
For travelers seeking peace and devotion, Manipur tours and travels offer a blend of scenic beauty and spiritual awakening.
Souvenirs to Shop in Manipur
Manipur offers a wonderful range of handicrafts perfect for souvenirs. Must-buy items include handwoven Phanek sarongs, Kauna grass baskets, and Longpi black pottery, known for its unique earthy charm. You can also shop for colourful shawls, bamboo crafts, and traditional jewellery made by local artisans. Purchasing these souvenirs supports indigenous craftsmanship and keeps your Manipur tourism memories alive.
Popular Dishes of Manipur
Manipuri cuisine is lively, flavourful, and deeply embedded in the state’s heritage, delivering a harmonious blend of taste, nourishment, and tradition. The meals are delicate, aromatic, and intimately linked to native ingredients and fresh, seasonal harvests. Exploring Manipur tours and packages enables food enthusiasts to relish these distinctive gastronomic delights.
- Eromba – A classic Manipuri dish prepared with fermented fish and mashed vegetables seasoned with hot red chilies. A staple in every Manipuri kitchen, it is served with rice.
- Singju – A salad that is hot and crunchy, which includes cabbage, lotus stem, herbs, and local spices. Served as street food, it is hot and tasty.
- Chakhao Kheer – A classic sweet dessert prepared with black rice, milk, and cardamom, which is known for its nutty taste and dark purple colour.
- Nga-Thongba – A traditional fish curry prepared with minimal oil and spices, following the native flavours of fresh freshwater fish.
- Paknam – A traditional pancake made from gram flour, vegetables, and herbs, steamed in banana leaves to provide a healthy taste.
These cuisines offer a rich gastronomic experience through Manipur's ethnically diverse communities, rendering culinary discovery an essential part of Manipur tourism.