Manipur is located as a lush green corner on the northeastern part of India’s Map. A beautiful valley in oval shape is bounded by bluish-green hills, lazy lakes, and bountiful flowers. Beautiful paradise on Earth with natural beauty all around with inspiring cultural heritage. Manipur is promisingly the most lovable destination of every tripper.
Numerous colorful communities and tribes of Manipur, namely Nagas, Meiteis, KukiChinMizo and communities including MeiteiPangals, Gorkhas, cohabited together with peace for centuries. Manipur is rich in cultural patterns and ancient traditions. Dance, folklore, legends, ethnic games, myths, handicrafts, handlooms of Manipur’s people are devoted to the charisma of nature.
Manipur just like any other northeastern states of India is isolated from the rest of India. Manipur stands for “land of jewels”, bordered by Assam to the west, Myanmar to the east and south, Nagaland to the North, and on the southwest is the Mizoram. Imphal is the state capital and located in the heart of the state.
Contents
Culture of Manipur
This beautiful state is a mosaic of rich culture and ancient traditions. The fascinating northeastern state boasts about the rich cultural heritage. Music and dance, art and culture, fairs and festivals, Manipur stand out when it’s, about culture. Raas Leela, a well-known dance form of Manipur depicts the bond of Lord Krishna and Gopis of Brindavan. The small state with diverse colors of culture and tradition that have tempted the foreign tourists. Manipur is the mesmeric beauty that is worth being explored and appreciated.
Language
Numerous dialects are common in Manipur, wherein Hindi is least spoken and English is used for official purposes. Meitei-lon is the native language of the state, it is used as a source to instruct the Manipur’s undergraduate level. Many local languages prevail amongst the tribes of Manipur. Bishnupriya Manipuri is another popular dialect commonly spoken and understood by the people of Manipur.
Locals
People of Manipur are greatly diversified in various communities like Kuki, Meitei, Meitei Pangal, Naga, and varied other colorful groups. Peace is kept intact amongst varied communities since centuries, each group is ethnic with their own distinct culture and traditions. Diverse tribes follow their rituals and traditions and at the same time, respect the custom and tradition of others, maintaining brotherhood amongst each other.
Melody of Manipur
This state is great music and dance lover, where music is accompanied by musical instruments that are unique such as Pena. Pena Ishei, Khullong Ishei, and Lai Haraoba Ishei are some of the popular folk music of Manipur. Gaur Padas, Nat, Dhob, Napi Pala, and Thabal Chongba are the devotional and classical rhythm of the state. Manohar Sai is one of the essential classical song, dedicated to a man of 19th century.
Handicraft
The art and craft of Manipur are depicted in their handicrafts and handloom clothes. The handloom of Manipur is well-known for its colorfulness, craftsmanship, uniqueness, and creativity. Bed sheets, tribal shawls, Manipuri saris, mats, bamboo work, dance dolls and, wood carving are world famous.
Dance
Folk, Modern, Classical, or Devotional are pretty distinct from all the other dance forms. Graceful rhythm and their elegant costumes add an aesthetic and elegant feel to their dance. Pung Cholom, Ras Lila, Maibi Dance, Khamba Thoibi Dance, and Nupa Pala are the popular dance forms of Manipur.
Costumes
Manipuri costumes are referred to as Futifali or Fijet by the people of Manipur. The traditional dress of Manipuri male is termed as Pachhati, worn around the waist, i.e., 5 feet long and is held around tight by Gunja. The upper body part is covered by the shirt. The authoritative men of Manipur with high social status, wrap Lemper Futi around the shoulder that is artistically crafted and they also carry turban or headgear.
Females of Manipur wear Lahing/Chakshabi along with a blouse in an ethnic look. This traditional dress is coarse that is embroidered on either side, with lengthwise stripes and laces on both ends. The artistic embroidery by craftsman enhances the elegance of these beautiful dresses.
The two most common traditional dresses for women are Phanek and Innaphi. Chin-Phi and Lai- Phi are the two beautiful traditional costume of Manipur. Khamen Chapta was used to offer as a gift to noble people and now it is worn by men of superior class.
Flora and Fauna of Manipur
This state has tremendous variety in flora and fauna as it exhibits alluring natural beauty. The serene beauty of Manipur is mesmerizing that intends tourists to visit Manipur every year. More than half of the geographical area is covered with hilly terrain and dense forest. With varying altitudes, climatic conditions also vary from area to area.
Plant Life of Manipur
The vibrant flowers offer an adoring view to Manipur. The numerous species of plants are found in the dense forest. Meadows and Grasslands are found in Siroi and Dzuko. Numerous rare and endangered plant species, beautiful orchids are an integral part of the flora of Manipur. The enchanting and exotic fragrance of flora relieves tourist from the tiredness. Churachandpur and Tamenglong are the districts of Manipur that host bamboo forests.
Animal Life of Manipur
Along with rich flora, Manipur is also rich in fauna species. Clouded leopard, Berbacked Pheasant, Blyths Tragopan, Spotted Linshang are some of the commonly found species of Manipur. Dancing deer is amongst the unique fauna species of Manipur that is termed as Sangai. Loktak Lake is well-known because of its floating vegetation that inhabits of the mass of Sangai. Lengwa is found in the bottom line of Siroi.
Places to Explore in Manipur
An impeccable destination for nature lovers referred to as “Switzerland of India”. It is beautifully situated in amidst of fascinating blue hills. The first prime minister of India, Late Jawaharlal Nehru described Manipur as “Jewel of India”. Be it cultural heritage or beauty of nature, this state is rich in every sense.
Tamenglong
Tamenglong is considered as “Land of Hills” that is rich in rare and endangered species of plant and animal life, rare spices and herbs are found in Tamenglong. This city captivates the heart and soul of tourists as it is the impeccable tourist spot. Beautiful lakes, valleys, waterfalls, hills, and greenery all around fill your heart with the content of life.
Some of the mesmerizing destinations that must be explored on your Trip to Tamenglong:
- Barak Waterfalls
- Tharon Cave
- Zeilad Lake
- Buning Meadow
- Kisha Khou
- Zeilad Wildlife Sanctuary
Senapati
A beautiful and unexplored city of Manipur that preserves the natural beauty and is incredibly alluring. It seems as if this land is blessed by Mother Nature with gorges, streams, hills, and rivers. This city boasts about rich plant and animal life vegetation as 80% land of Senapati is shielded with dense forests.
Some of the top destinations of Senapati:
- Purul
- Makhel Cave
- Dzuko Valley
- Mao
- Sadu Chiru Waterfalls
- Liyai
- Yangkhullen
- Maram Khullen
Thoubal
A picturesque destination of Manipur that is ideal for hiking and trekking, situated in amidst hills. Mesmeric lakes, captivating greenery, and enchanting rivers make it an ideal destination for an adventure trip. Inhabitants of Thoubal boost the greenery along the roadside and at home.
The mesmerizing hill stations and magnificence beauty of nature offer visual feast and tranquility to your soul. The soul-captivating and mind relaxing environment of this state make the trip to Manipur, fun-loving and lifetime memorable.
Best tourist spots that must be in your list of the tour to Thoubal:
- Imphal River
- Waithou Lake
- Lousi Lake
- Khongjom War Memorial
- Thoubal River
- People’s Museum
- Ikop Lake
- Thoubal Bazaar
Imphal
The state capital is remarkably the scenic beauty that fascinates the heart of every tourist. The heart of Manipur is beautifully covered hills and plains that attracts tourists all year long. This place has played a crucial role whilst independence of India as many of the independence movement took place here. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose gave inspiring Independence speeches. The foremost destination to explore in Manipur is the exhilarating beauty with fabulous fields, dense forests, refreshing air and scenic views of this place enthralls the soul. The rich tradition of Manipur is reflected by sprawling grasslands and dense forests.
Top destinations to be visited at this heaven-like beautiful place:
- Sirohi National Park
- Jama Masjid
- Loktak Lake
- Matai Garden
- Red Hill Lokpaching
- Kangla Fort
- Manipur State Museum
- Manipur Zoological Gardens
- Sekta Archaeological Living Museum
- Keibul Lam Jao National Park
- Shree Govindajee Temple
Chandel
The charismatic city of Manipur is the gateway towards Myanmar. This city is home of diverse species of flora and fauna. Wildlife enthusiasts are spotted at Chandel because plenty of rare plants and animals life are found here. It is a must visit tourist spot because of the unique surroundings and alluring environment.
Top tourist destinations to visit in Chandel are:
- Yangoupokpi- Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary
- Moreh
- Tengnoupal
Ukhrul
The aspiring beauty of the sparkling sky, enchanting view of the valley, rarely found species of flora and fauna enthralls the soul of every tripper. This place will grab all your attention and make your trip a memorable one. Ukhrul is the best choice for hiking, camping, trekking, and many more activities to be explored by tourists. This place is a dreamland that elevates your spirit way higher and is an impeccable spot for nature lovers.
Top tourist destinations to visit in Ukhrul are:
- Ango Ching
- Shirui Kashung
- Nillai Tea Estate
- Kachouphung Lake
- Hundung Mangva Cave
- Khangkhui Cave
- Khayang Peak
- Shirui Kashung Peak
Bishnupur
A beautiful land that is rich in the religious aura, full of beautiful temples that are termed as the Holy Land. This city is real natural beauty and the best place for spiritual people. The rich culture and architectural excellence of Manipur are depicted by the beauty of ancient temples. One can feel the divine presence of Almighty and makes your Trip to Manipur a complete satiate.
Places to visit on your trip to Bishnupur:
- Dal Madol
- Radha Shyam Temple
- Sridhara Temple
- Rasmancha
- Jorebangla Temple
- Shyamrai Temple
- Susunia Pahar
- Siddheswar Temple
- Pancha Ratana Temple
The beauty of Manipur makes you visit again and again. A nature-deprived dreamland is a must visit to explore as it offers something for all, be it spiritualism, adventure, wildlife, peace, and serenity.
Festivals of Manipur
Kut Festival
A festival of autumn season of diverse tribal groups -Kuki, Mizo and Chin tribes of Manipur. A feast to celebrate the food production after the hard labor of a year. Music and dance are accompanied with thanksgiving for honoring the giver of ample harvest.
This festival is celebrated on 1st November, at this time farmer delightedly celebrates this fest because the complete harvested crop is gathered after endless hard work of the whole year. The Kut festival relieves all stress as the cultural folk music and dance let you get carried away with it. Tourist can explore the unique culture of Manipur and enjoy the exotic delectable during this festival. Locals of Manipur whitewash their houses to welcome this gracious festival in their home.
Ningol Chakouba
A fiesta of sisters and daughters of every family of Manipur tribal communities. It is celebrated from October to November and was introduced in 33 B.C. according to myths of Manipur. A huge festival celebrated by every family and amongst all categories of people be it male or female, young or old, everyone enjoys it with togetherness. This festival signifies love between brothers and sisters and within families. Daughters and Sisters on this day are offered gifts and they bless them all prosperity and happiness for all year long. This festival is now celebrated with great enthusiasm at different places and amongst different social groups. Ningol Chakouba is has been observed as state-level festival and state holiday is declared on this day.
Kang Rath Yatra
Kangchingba is also famous as Kang Rath Yatra is festive of Meitei people. Idols of Shri Subhadra, Shri Balarama, and Shri Jaganatha are worshipped on this auspicious yatra festival. The big and tall Shri Jagannatha Rath is decorated beautifully with idols and procession is just as Rath Yatra in Puri, Odisha.
This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal, where people offer fruits, flowers, and many other offerings to Lord Jagannatha and their siblings. Men follow women and sing on the rhythm of a mirdanga known as Pung, used in Manipur. It is followed by a dance group of young people. Kshechiri, prasadam is offered is offered by Brahmans to all devotees without any bars of community.
Heikru Hidongba
The boat race festival known as Heikru Hidongba celebrated by the Meities people according to Meitei calendar. This joyous festival is celebrated at Thangapat Lake of Imphal and this festival is observed since 1074 A.D. The enthusiasm and pompous of this festival is marked by racing boats that are the main attraction of festivals as there is huge gathering to celebrate this boat race festival.
On the prior day of the festival, the boat is purified with Mantra and Konyai are thrown on the boats and prayers are offered to Meitei Gods. Silver and Gold coins with a garland in a towel are offered the deck of a boat. Two boats join together on this day that is known as Shri Shri Bijoy Govinda and Hi- Khabak- Lakpa. People visit on both sides of Thangapat Lake and gather at the seating arrangements made by King and Queen. The grandeur festival held in a year is a wonderful experience to witness.
Tempting Food of Manipur
Food of Manipur is undoubtedly very healthy and tasty. The ingredients of food are highly organic and contribute to good health. The hills and peaks of Manipur require more n more strength and flexibility to live a healthy life. The food of Manipur has to be free from much spices and oil. Manipur people are more likely to eat leafy vegetables, fish, rice, etc and they use lots of herbs while plantations. Check out the list of delectable of Manipur you must try on your visit to this beautiful northeastern state.
Eromba
A delightful dish that is prepared in combination of fish and rice, it is one amongst the favorite dishes of Manipuris. The tonne of vegetables is boiled with dry fish to prepare this dish. Eromba is finally, garnished well with sprinkles of coriander leaves and maroi.
Singju
One of the yummiest salad of all the cuisines that taste incredibly well with vegetables. This dish not only includes few chief vegetables such as onions and tomatoes. It is prepared in combination with multiple veggies such as lotus stems, onions, ginger, cabbage, singju leaf, coriander leaves, and varied alike vegetables. It is prepared in combination with Ngari fish.
Kangshoi or Chamthong
A vegetable stew is prepared using seasonal vegetables that are accompanied by cloves, garlic, ginger, garlic, maroi, and sliced onions. It is very hot and is served with fish and rice. It is one of the popular dishes of Manipur.
Paaknam
Ever heard about a fish cake??
A pancake that is prepared using Ngari fish. These pancakes are wrapped in banana leaf, steamed well and are served with sweet chili sauce. This yummy delicacy is one love of tourists and locals of Manipur!!!
Alu Kangmet
A simple dish that is a great solution for your hunger. Potato dish that is loved by Manipuris is an easy but wholesome dish of Manipur Cuisine. Mashed potatoes are mixed up well with salt, few drops of mustard oil and some fried red chili. It is a must try vegetarian dish on your visit to Manipur.
Chahhao Kheer
A delicious sweet dish, Kheer prepared on special events of Manipur. The yummy delicacy with pleasing purple is prepared using rice, cardamom, and milk. It is beautifully garnished to enhance the taste and look of the dish with healthy nuts and raisins.
Shopping Places
A beautiful state amongst the northeastern states of India is turning steadily into an attractive tourist spot. In spite of not being as glamorous and posh as metropolitan cities, it has won the hearts of tourists and achieved a higher place in varied sectors, to name a few, agriculture, tourism, and commerce. Tourists seek for the marketplace to get back home a memento from a place. Some of the top shopping places where one must visit:
Tera Bazaar
A colorful market that is located in the state capital, Imphal. This market has so much to offer and amazing souvenirs for their dear ones at the remarkably low price and at strikingly attractive choice. The handicrafts offered at local shops depict the diverse traditions and culture of Manipur that seeks for the attention of the tourists. Accessories, household products, fruits and vegetables, this market has everything to offer. It is undoubted the most crowded place on the weekends and on holidays as there is a heavy sale on these products during these days.
Paona Bazaar
The numerous shops of this market sell beautiful stuff such as bamboo, silk saris, ivory items, hand-woven shawls, and many more uniquely arty products. The beautiful handicrafts are offered at reasonable rates designed by skilled craftsmen of Manipur. Handicraft Development Corporation Sales Emporium and Manipur Handlooms are a must visit shopping places of Manipur. Paona Bazaar offers a significant collection of bamboo artifacts, scarf, colorful mats, etc.
Nagampal Market
The important commercial spot located at Imphal is the delight of every shopper. This market offers a wide range of stocks varying from apparels to veggies to handlooms to other accessories. Nagampal Market has certain well-known and top restaurants that offer all delicious Food of Manipur that can be enjoyed after the tiredness of shopping by locals as well as tourists.
Handicrafts of Manipur
Wood Carving
The inevitable craftwork of Manipur people makes them stand out-of-the-box. The small state of northeastern part of India is secluded from the whole world that makes the communication and transportation a troublesome task. The artisans of Manipur have gained skills of making the utility stuff from wood. Using wood they beautifully carved many day to day utility products such as a bowl, buckets, spoons, tray, mugs, etc.
Textile Weaving
The art of textile weaving is recognized as Laichamphi that stands for cotton cloth. The unawareness of woolen yarn amongst the women of Manipur, before the Second World War, made them use the cotton yarn as the raw material for textile weaving. Every Manipuri women hold specialization is weaving Loin Loom and loom is available in every house of Manipur for weaving beautiful textile products.
Stone- Carving
The artistic and distinct products designed by the skilled Manipuri people. The beautiful products that are carved out of stone are great attraction amongst the tourist of Manipur. The stone carved products are very innovative and are definitely a great significance of souvenirs for every tourist. The beautiful stone carved products include plates, grinders, bowls, candle stands, etc.
Climate of Manipur
Manipur boasts as one of the best tourist destinations because of soothing beauty and endless treasures of nature. The incredible beauty of valleys, gracious Himalayan ranges with enormous, springs, and wildlife habitats will ultimately play a drastic role in the climatic condition. The maximum temperature is summer season goes up to 32-degree centigrade and minimum temperature goes till 0-degree centigrade. January is considered as the coolest month and July as warmest month in Manipur. This place experiences alpine and tropical climate, its affable climatic conditions alter from season to season in specific months. Global warming has affected the hilly region.
Summer Season
Pleasant and Soothing Summer Season is dynamic but not intense as it reaches the maximum of 32-degree centigrade and a minimum of 18-degree centigrade. Days are covered by sunny side and as the day sets cold wind blows to hustle. Summer Season in Manipur starts from March till May.
Monsoon Season
Due to Himalayan ranges, freshwater drenches down the hills, during the monsoon season. Monsoon Season in Manipur starts from June till October. The average rainfall record experienced in Manipur is 1460mm, Imphal experiences rainfall of around 933 mm and Tamenglong experiences heavy rainfall of about 2593mm.
Winter Season
The winters are extreme at some part of the state-varying and not topography of hilly regions. The climate of the northeastern corner is generally friendly, however, winters can turn out to be very chilly. November to February are the winter months in Manipur.
Facts about Manipur
- Manipur literally stands for “The Jeweled Land” and is highly rewarded with the magnificence of nature.
- Nagaland in the north, Assam in the west, Mizoram in the south and Myanmar in the east, this state is beautifully bordered by them from all sides.
- Sanaleibak, Kangleipak, and Meeteileipak are various names of Manipur.
- Sericulture and Handloom Weaving are the chief sources of living of Manipuri Locals.
- The four rivers that flow in Manipur are- the Yu River Basin in the east, the Barak River Basin in the west, a portion of Lanye River Basin in north, and Manipur River Basin in the heart of Manipur.
- Loktak Elementary Floating School is the first floating elementary school of India that was built in February 2017 on Loktak Lake of Manipur.
- Polo sport was initiated by Manipur and later it was adopted by British people, therefore, it became famous in the west.
Facts about Government
- Capital- Imphal
- Governor- Najma Heptullah
- Chief Minister- Okram Ibobi Singh
- Chief Justice of High Court- Justice Rakesh Ranjan Prasad
Facts about state Symbols
- Formation Date- January 21, 1972
- State Bird- Nongin
- State Flower- Lilium Mackliniae (Lily)
- Languages- Meitei, Manipuri
- State Animal- Sangai( Brow-antlered deer)
- State Tree- Indian Mahogany
How to Reach
By Air
Imphal Tulihal Airport is situated at a distance of 8km away from the center of the city and it is well connected by all metropolitan cities and other major cities of India. It also connects with the major cities of northeastern states such as Silchar, Aizwal, Dimapur, etc.
By Train
This state does not have any railway service but it is connected via road by other northeastern cities like Dimapur, Silchar, Guwahati, etc. that has proper railway connectivity.
By Road
The road facilities are quite convenient in Manipur. Almost 35 National Highway build connectivity among major cities such as Kohima, Dimapur, and Guwahati. Around 50 National Highway connects this state with northeastern states of India.
