Manipur is the pride of north India. It is rich in sceneries and natural beauty. There is a number of places that will steal your heart and give you a lifetime experience. The state is very huge that you will often get confused about which place you must visit. Therefore, we have created a list of the top 20 places that you can visit and enjoy your trip to its fullest.
List of the 20 Best Places to Visit in Manipur:
1. Loktak Lake
Loktak lake is situated about 53 Km away from Imphal. It is the only floating lake in the whole of India. The lake is, very famous for boating, picnic, and photos. It is situated at the Sendra island of the state and is spread over a 300 square meter area. Lake is not famous for its beauty but supplies water to hydel power and irrigation.
Why Visit: Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, is famous for its floating islands called “Phumdis”. This scenic lake is a haven for nature lovers and offers a unique ecosystem.
Things to Do:
- Boating: Experience the tranquility of the lake by boating around the floating islands.
- Keibul Lamjao National Park: Visit the world’s only floating national park, home to the endangered Sangai deer.
- Bird Watching: Observe a variety of birds, including migratory species, in their natural habitat.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Imphal International Airport, about 48 km away. Cabs are readily available to reach Loktak Lake.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Dimapur, 215 km away. Buses and taxis can take you from Dimapur to Imphal.
- By Road: Loktak Lake is well-connected by road from Imphal. Public buses and taxis are available from Imphal to Moirang.
2. Tharon Cave
It is a very famous cage of Manipur situated near Tamenglong. Hovnanian culture of Vietnam is represented in this cage. There is dim light present in the cave that makes it very attractive. It is a famous spot for trekkers and adventure lovers.
Why Visit: Tharon Cave is an ancient cave system with complex tunnels and beautiful rock formations, providing a thrilling experience for adventure seekers.
Things to Do:
- Cave Exploration: Navigate through the cave’s five exits and 34 junctions, and marvel at the stalactite and stalagmite formations.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The nearest airport is Imphal International Airport, about 169 km away.
- By Train: The closest railway station is Jiribam, around 140 km away.
- By Road: Accessible via buses and taxis from Tamenglong town.
3. Keibul Lamjao National Park
The national park is encircling Loktak Lake. It is spread to over 40 square kilometers and has a variety of flora phumd is and lots of dears. It is the world’s single floating sanctuary giving the mesmerizing view of the Loktak lake. It is also a home for many endangered and common birds species.
Why Visit: The only floating national park in the world, Keibul Lamjao is famous for its unique ecosystem and the endangered Sangai deer.
Things to Do:
- Wildlife Watching: Spot the rare Sangai deer and other wildlife species in their natural habitat.
- Nature Walks: Explore the park’s trails and enjoy the unique floating environment.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 55 km away.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Dimapur, about 235 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Imphal with regular bus and taxi services.
4. Kangla Fort
Kangla Fort is situated near Imphal. It was the home to the many Manipuri kings. Now it speaks for the culture and heritage of Manipur. It has several temples, a coronation wall, and a citadel that attracts tons of tourists every month. It is the best place for photography lovers.
Why Visit: Kangla Fort is a historical and cultural landmark that offers insights into the rich heritage of Manipur.
Things to Do:
- Fort Tour: Explore the ancient fortifications and structures within the fort complex.
- Museum Visit: Learn about Manipur’s history and culture at the on-site museum.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The fort is located about 8 km from Imphal International Airport.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Dimapur, around 205 km away.
- By Road: Easily accessible by local transport within Imphal.
5. INA Memorial Complex
INA complex is made to give tributes to the Bravehearts of the Indian army who sacrificed their life for us. There is a huge bronze statue of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose. Apart from this, it has a war museum for patriotic people. You will see the parts of World War II and the freedom fight of India there.
Visiting Time – 10 am to 4 pm
Charges – Rs.10 for the museum only
Why Visit: This memorial honors the Indian National Army’s efforts in the fight for India’s independence.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 120 km away.
- By Train: The closest station is Jiribam, about 170 km away.
- By Road: Accessible by buses and taxis from Moirang and Imphal.
6. Singda Dam
It is the mud dam this is situated at the highest height in the whole world. The height of the dam is about 920 meters from the ground level. There are lots of paddy fields all around the dam. It supplies water for irrigation to the whole of Manipur. The sceneries of the dam are beautiful.
Visiting Time – 8 am to 6 pm
Why Visit: Singda Dam offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and valleys, making it an ideal spot for a peaceful retreat.
Things to Do:
- Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic by the dam amidst serene surroundings.
- Nature Walks: Explore the area around the dam on foot.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 26 km away.
- By Train: Dimapur Railway Station is around 230 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Imphal with regular bus and taxi services.
7. Shri Govinda Jee Temple
The temple is majorly dedicated to the Radha Krishna and Govinda Jee. There is the idol of Govinda Jee at the center of the temple. Other gods’ idol is placed in the surrounding temple. It is indeed a very beautiful and spiritual temple.
Visiting Time – 5 am to 12 noon and 4 pm to 9 pm
Why Visit: An important Vaishnavite temple known for its beautiful architecture and spiritual ambiance.
How to Reach:
- By Air: The temple is located about 8 km from Imphal International Airport.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Dimapur, about 205 km away.
- By Road: Easily accessible by local transport within Imphal.
8. Waithou Lake
The lake is about 16km away from the city of Imphal. It offers a very beautiful view of pristine beauty. The lake is full of tourists every year because of the heart-melting sight that it offers. It is a perennial lake that you can relax at.
Why Visit: Waithou Lake is known for its serene environment and picturesque views, making it a perfect spot for relaxation.
Things to Do: Boating: Enjoy a tranquil boat ride on the lake.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 30 km away.
- By Train: Dimapur Railway Station is around 230 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Imphal with buses and taxis.
9. Dzukou Valley
It is very beautiful and famous for its natural views and sceneries. It is located at the border of Nagaland and Manipur. The water is crystal clear, the forests are green and the view is amazing. You can see a number of flowers here in the season of summer. You must visit this valley if you are a hardcore nature lover.
Charges – Rs. 20 for local people, Rs. 50 for other Indians, and Rs. 100 for the foreigners
Why Visit: Dzukou Valley is famous for its stunning landscapes and seasonal flowers, making it a paradise for trekkers.
Things to Do:
- Trekking: Explore the various trekking routes in the valley.
- Camping: Experience camping under the stars in the valley.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 45 km away.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is Dimapur, around 150 km away.
- By Road: Accessible via buses and taxis from Kohima and Imphal.
10. Shirui Kashung Peak
The peak is located in the Ukhrul town. It is very famous for its rare flowers. There grows a special Shirui lilies species of flowers here. It only grows in this valley and hence, attracts lots of tourists every year. The valley is also very famous for birds.
Tip to visit the place – Don’t forget your strongest pair of trekking shoes at home.
Why Visit: Shirui Kashung Peak is renowned for the rare Shirui Lily, which blooms only in this region.
Things to Do: Hiking: Hike to the peak to see the beautiful lilies.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 95 km away.
- By Train: The nearest station is Dimapur, about 295 km away.
- By Road: Accessible by road from Ukhrul town.
11. Leimaran Waterfall
It becomes one of the most famous places in Manipur in recent years. There is a total of three waterfalls surrounded by greenery. The view of the place is perfect for photogenic people.
Why Visit: Leimaran Waterfall offers a tranquil escape into nature with its scenic beauty and refreshing ambiance.
Things to Do: Picnicking: Enjoy a picnic by the waterfall with family and friends.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 30 km away.
- By Train: Dimapur Railway Station is around 230 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Imphal with buses and taxis.
12. Dal Madol
It is a historical thing in Manipur. The thing is actually a long and broad cannon. It was made by the Malla kings to fight the battle against the Marathas. The attractive part of the canon is that it is made up of total iron but does not get rust.
Situated at – Chinnamasta Temple
Why Visit: Dal Madol is a historic cannon located in the Bishnupur district, significant for its historical importance.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 30 km away.
- By Train: Dimapur Railway Station is around 230 km away.
- By Road: Accessible by road from Bishnupur town.
13. Andro
Andro is the home for unique pottery. It is a village where local married women make some local and unique pottery. The women also sell the tribal dollhouses. There is a total of 29 tribes that are living here simultaneously.
Tip – Visit the village between the month of October to February because of the pleasant climate.
Why Visit: Andro is a cultural village known for its traditional pottery and local crafts.
Things to Do:
- Pottery Workshop: Participate in pottery-making workshops.
- Cultural Tour: Explore the local culture and traditions.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 25 km away.
- By Train: Dimapur Railway Station is around 215 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Imphal with buses and taxis.
14. Jorebangla Temple
The temple is situated in the village of Bishnupur. The temple was built by King Raghunath Singha Dev back in the era of 1655. He was a Malla king. The architecture of the temple is very attractive and traditional.
Why Visit: Known for its unique architecture and intricate terracotta designs.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 30 km away.
- By Train: Dimapur Railway Station is around 230 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Bishnupur town.
15. Rasmancha
It is a less explored but very famous tourist exploration of Manipur. It is also located in Bishnupur. People used to celebrate the Ras festival there. It is the oldest pyramidal-shaped brick temple. It becomes now the heritage center of Manipur. The temple is under the Archeology Survey of India.
Why Visit: A historic temple with a distinctive architectural style, located in Bishnupur.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 30 km away.
- By Train: Dimapur Railway Station is around 230 km away.
- By Road: Well-connected by road from Bishnupur town.
16. Ima Keithel
It is also known as the mother market because it is a women’s market. It’s not like men are not allowed here but all the stuff is made for women only. The best part is, it is 500 years 500-year-old marker and about 5000 shops are there.
Visiting time – 3 am to 7 pm
Why Visit: Known as the largest women-run market in Asia, Ima Keithel offers a unique shopping experience.
Things to Do: Shopping: Shop for local handicrafts, textiles, and fresh produce.
How to Reach:
- By Air: Imphal International Airport is about 8 km away.
- By Train: Dimapur Railway Station is around 205 km away.
- By Road: Easily accessible by local transport within Imphal.
17. State Museum
As the name tells itself, it is a museum will lots of traditional and local things to explore. You will find things like ornaments, weapons, etc. here. It is the place to host awareness programs and several exhibitions.
Visiting time – 10 am to 4 pm
Charges – Rs. 3 for Indians and Rs. 20 for foreigners
18. Manipur Zoological Park
The zoo is spread over 8 hectares of land. It is the home for both local and common as well as for some rare animal species. There are lots of zebras present in the zoo.
Visiting time – 10 am to 4 pm / The zoo is closed on Sunday
Charges – Rs. 3
19. Senapati
Senapati is a very famous place for its natural sceneries. About 80 percent of the land is covered with dark forest and the rest is occupied by the villagers. You can explore the forest in daylight and spend cozy evenings with locals.
Best time to visit – October to March
20. Chandel
Chandel is the gateway of Myanmar. The place represents the cultural scenario of Manipur. It is also one of the most happening places in Manipur. You can wake up early in the morning and have a trek to this place. You will also spot the number of animals there.
Tip – Wear tights and trekking shoes and keep your cameras ready
We hope that you like this collection of the top 20 places in Manipur. Don’t forget to visit them on your next trip to Manipur.
Furthermore blogs on North-East India:
- Best Places to Visit in North East India in July
- 10 Best Places to Visit in North East India
- Top 10 Best Places for Adventure in North East India
- Places To Visit In North East India in June
- Best Honeymoon Destinations in North East India
- North-East India in December: 10 Best Destinations to Visit
- North-East India in April – Weather, Things to Do, Events, Essentials
Frequently Asked Questions:
1. What are the best places to visit in Manipur?
Some of the best places to visit in Manipur include Loktak Lake, Imphal Valley, Khonghampat Orchidarium, and Keibul Lamjao National Park.
2. What is the best time to visit Manipur?
The best time to visit Manipur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.
3. What is Manipur famous for?
Manipur is famous for its natural beauty, rich culture, traditional dance forms like Manipuri, and scenic landscapes.
4. What are the famous lakes in Manipur?
The most famous lake in Manipur is Loktak Lake, known for its phumdis (floating islands).
5. What is the coldest place in Manipur?
Ukhrul is considered one of the coldest places in Manipur, especially during winter.
6. What are the famous tourist spots in Manipur?
Famous tourist spots in Manipur include Loktak Lake, Kangla Fort, Shree Govindajee Temple, and INA Memorial.
7. What is the famous personality of Manipur?
Mary Kom, the renowned boxer, is one of the most famous personalities from Manipur.
8. What are some picnic spots in Manipur?
Popular picnic spots in Manipur include Sendra Island on Loktak Lake, Khongjom War Memorial, and Leimaram Waterfall.
9. What is the natural beauty of Manipur like?
Manipur is known for its lush green landscapes, rolling hills, beautiful lakes, and vibrant flora and fauna.
10. What are the famous things in Manipur?
Manipur is famous for its handloom and handicrafts, traditional dance, Thang Ta martial arts, and the scenic beauty of its landscapes.
11. What are the important places to visit in Manipur?
Important places to visit in Manipur include Imphal, Ukhrul, Thoubal, and Churachandpur.
12. What is the famous lake of Manipur?
Loktak Lake is the most famous lake in Manipur, known for its floating islands and rich biodiversity.
13. What are the best places to visit in Imphal?
In Imphal, the best places to visit include Kangla Fort, Ima Keithel (Mother’s Market), and Shree Govindajee Temple.
14. What is the famous waterfall in Manipur?
Ishiing Thingbi Waterfall is a well-known waterfall located in the Senapati district of Manipur.
15. What are the top tourist attractions in Manipur?
Top tourist attractions in Manipur include Loktak Lake, Kangla Fort, Keibul Lamjao National Park, and Shree Govindajee Temple.
