Manipur Travel Guide: All You Need To Know

Manipur is a state located in Northeast India. It is known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and unique traditions. Some of the popular attractions in Manipur include:

• Loktak Lake: Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, and is known for its unique floating islands called phumdis. The lake is a popular destination for boating and bird watching.
• Imphal: Imphal is the capital city of Manipur and is known for its historical significance. The city has several important landmarks like the Kangla Fort, Imphal War Cemetery, and the Manipur State Museum.
• Khonghampat Orchidarium: The Khonghampat Orchidarium is home to over 110 varieties of orchids and is a popular attraction among nature lovers.
• Shirui Lily Festival: The Shirui Lily Festival is an annual festival held in Ukhrul district of Manipur. The festival celebrates the blooming of the Shirui Lily, which is a rare and endangered flower found only in the hills of Manipur.
• Keibul Lamjao National Park: The Keibul Lamjao National Park is the only floating national park in the world, and is home to the endangered Manipur brow-antlered deer.
• Women’s Market: The Women’s Market, also known as Ima Keithel, is a popular market in Imphal run entirely by women. The market is a great place to shop for traditional Manipuri handicrafts and textiles.

These are just a few popular attractions in Manipur. The state has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its unique traditions and festivals.

Best Time To Visit Manipur

The best time to visit Manipur is from October to March. During this period, the weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C. The skies are clear, and there is very little rainfall. This makes it an ideal time to explore the natural beauty of the state and to participate in outdoor activities like trekking and sightseeing.

The monsoon season in Manipur starts from June and lasts until September. During this time, the state receives heavy rainfall, which can sometimes cause flooding and landslides. This can make it difficult to get around and to participate in outdoor activities.

The summer season in Manipur starts from April and lasts until June. During this time, the weather can be hot and humid, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 35°C. It is not the best time to visit Manipur, as the heat can make it uncomfortable to explore the state.

Overall, the best time to visit Manipur is during the winter months, from October to March. The weather is comfortable, and the natural beauty of the state is at its best.

Things to Do in Manipur

Manipur is a state located in Northeast India, known for its rich culture, natural beauty, and unique traditions. Here are some popular things to do in Manipur:

• Explore Loktak Lake: Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and is known for its unique floating islands called phumdis. Take a boat ride to explore the lake and its many islands.
• Visit Kangla Fort: Kangla Fort is a historic fort located in the heart of Imphal, the capital city of Manipur. It was the seat of power of the Manipuri kings for many centuries and has a rich history.
• Attend the Shirui Lily Festival: The Shirui Lily Festival is an annual festival held in Ukhrul district of Manipur. The festival celebrates the blooming of the Shirui Lily, which is a rare and endangered flower found only in the hills of Manipur.
• Go Trekking: Manipur has many hills and mountains that are ideal for trekking. You can explore the Dzukou Valley, Shirui Hills, and the Mao Range.
• Visit Women’s Market: The Women’s Market, also known as Ima Keithel, is a popular market in Imphal run entirely by women. The market is a great place to shop for traditional Manipuri handicrafts and textiles.
• Experience Manipuri culture: Manipuri culture is unique and vibrant. Attend a traditional dance performance, witness a martial arts demonstration, or visit a local village to experience the local way of life.

These are just a few popular things to do in Manipur. The state has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its unique traditions and festivals. It’s a great destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and those interested in learning about different cultures.

How to Get Around in Manipur

Manipur has a well-developed transport system, with various options available for getting around the state. Here are some of the most common modes of transportation in Manipur:

• Taxis: Taxis are readily available in Manipur and are a convenient way to get around the state. You can hire a taxi for a day or for a specific trip, and negotiate the fare with the driver beforehand.
• Shared taxis: Shared taxis are a more affordable option and are widely used in Manipur. These taxis have fixed routes, and passengers can share the ride with other travelers.
• Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a common mode of transportation in Manipur, particularly in the cities. They are best for shorter journeys and are generally less expensive than taxis.
• Buses: Manipur has a well-connected network of buses that link the major towns and cities in the state. State-run and private buses are available, and fares are generally inexpensive.
• Motorbikes and scooters: If you are comfortable riding a motorbike or scooter, you can rent one to explore the state at your own pace. There are several rental agencies in the major cities of Manipur.
• Walking: Walking is a great way to explore the cities and towns in Manipur, particularly in the rural areas. It’s a great way to experience the local culture and traditions up close.

Overall, getting around in Manipur is fairly easy, with many options available to suit different budgets and preferences. However, it’s best to plan your transportation ahead of time, particularly if you’re traveling during peak season.

Where to eat in Manipur

Manipur, located in northeastern India, offers a wide range of local and regional cuisine that you can try. Here are some popular places to eat in Manipur:

• Imphal Market: Imphal has a vibrant street food culture, and the market is the perfect place to explore local delicacies. You can try the local snack ‘Singju,’ which is made with vegetables, chillies, and fish sauce, or ‘Chamthong,’ a vegetable stew with fish or meat.
• Classic Hotel and Restaurant: This restaurant in Imphal offers a range of Indian and Chinese dishes, as well as local specialties like Eromba, which is a mashed vegetable dish that is usually eaten with rice.
• Blue Restaurant: Located in Imphal, this restaurant is known for its North Indian cuisine, including Tandoori chicken, butter chicken, and biryani.
• Anjuman Hotel: Located in Ukhrul, this hotel offers a range of Indian and Chinese dishes. However, it is best known for its speciality, “Naga-style pork,” which is cooked with bamboo shoots and is a must-try.
• Madras Café: This restaurant, located in Churachandpur, is known for its South Indian cuisine, including dosas, idlis, and vadas.

These are just a few options to explore the local cuisine in Manipur. You can also try visiting local food stalls, food markets and cafes to try the authentic local food experience.

Famous street stalls in Manipur

Manipur is known for its vibrant street food culture. Here are some famous street stalls in Manipur that you can check out:

• Ima Market, Imphal: Ima Market is an all-women market and is known for its street food stalls that offer a variety of local delicacies. You can try the local snack “Singju,” which is made with vegetables, chillies, and fish sauce or “Chamthong,” a vegetable stew with fish or meat.
• Moirangkhom, Imphal: Moirangkhom is a popular street food hub in Imphal, and you can find a range of local street food here. One of the popular street stalls is “Chamthong Mami,” which serves delicious vegetable stew with fish or meat.
• BT Road, Imphal: BT Road is a busy street in Imphal, and you can find a range of street food stalls here. One of the popular street stalls is “Napali Chole Bhature,” which serves spicy chickpea curry with deep-fried bread.
• Keishampat, Imphal: Keishampat is another popular street food hub in Imphal. You can find a range of local street food stalls here, and one of the popular ones is “Lai Haraoba Cafeteria,” which serves local delicacies like “Eromba” (mashed vegetables) and “Chak-hao Kheer” (black rice pudding).
• Wangkhei, Imphal: Wangkhei is known for its street food stalls that offer a range of local snacks and sweets. One of the popular street stalls is “Chinjabi,” which serves a fusion of Chinese and Punjabi cuisine, including “Chowmein” and “Chilli Chicken.”

These are just a few famous street stalls in Manipur, and you can explore more places to get a taste of the local street food.

Where to stay in Manipur

Luxury accommodation

Manipur offers a range of luxury accommodations to choose from. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Manipur:

• The Classic Grande: The Classic Grande is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Imphal. The hotel offers spacious rooms and suites, a rooftop swimming pool, a fitness center, and multiple dining options.
• Hotel Imphal: Hotel Imphal is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Imphal. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a fitness center, and multiple dining options. The hotel also has a beautiful garden and a banquet hall for events.
• Sangai Continental: Sangai Continental is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Imphal. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a rooftop swimming pool, a fitness center, and multiple dining options. The hotel also has a banquet hall and conference facilities.
• Classic Grande Galdan: Classic Grande Galdan is a luxury hotel located in the outskirts of Imphal. The hotel offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a fitness center, and multiple dining options. The hotel also has a beautiful garden and a banquet hall for events.
• Ukhrul Guest House: Ukhrul Guest House is a luxury guest house located in Ukhrul. The guest house offers well-appointed rooms and suites, a garden, and a terrace. The guest house also has a restaurant that serves local and regional cuisine.

These are some of the best luxury accommodations in Manipur that you can consider for a comfortable and luxurious stay.

Budget accommodation

Manipur offers a range of budget accommodations for travelers on a budget. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Manipur:

• Hotel Yaiphaba: Hotel Yaiphaba is a budget hotel located in the heart of Imphal. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant that serves local and regional cuisine, and free Wi-Fi.
• Nongin Tourist Home: Nongin Tourist Home is a budget guest house located in Imphal. The guest house offers well-appointed rooms, a garden, and a terrace. The guest house also has a restaurant that serves local and regional cuisine.
• Hotel Imphal by Polo Towers: Hotel Imphal by Polo Towers is a budget hotel located in the heart of Imphal. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant that serves local and regional cuisine, and free Wi-Fi.
• Blue Berry Lodge: Blue Berry Lodge is a budget guest house located in Imphal. The guest house offers well-appointed rooms, a garden, and a terrace. The guest house also has a restaurant that serves local and regional cuisine.
• Ukhrul Homestay: Ukhrul Homestay is a budget homestay located in Ukhrul. The homestay offers comfortable rooms, a garden, and a terrace. The homestay also has a kitchen where you can cook your own meals.

These are some of the best budget accommodations in Manipur that you can consider for a comfortable and affordable stay.

Travel Tips Manipur

If you are planning a trip to Manipur, here are some travel tips that can help make your trip smoother and more enjoyable:

• Best time to visit: The best time to visit Manipur is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and conducive to outdoor activities.
• Transportation: Public transportation in Manipur can be limited and erratic. It is advisable to hire a car or a taxi to travel around. You can also use auto-rickshaws, buses or shared cabs.
• Safety: Manipur is generally a safe place, but it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially in the evenings and at night.
• Local Customs: Manipur has a rich cultural heritage and local customs that should be respected. Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering religious places, and ask for permission before taking photographs of people.
• Local Cuisine: Manipuri cuisine is unique and delicious. Do not hesitate to try out the local delicacies like Singju, Chamthong, Eromba, Chak-hao Kheer, and various types of local teas.
• Accommodation: There are a variety of accommodation options available in Manipur, ranging from budget guest houses to luxury hotels. Make sure to book your accommodation in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.
• Outdoor activities: Manipur is known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities like trekking, camping, and bird watching. Make sure to carry appropriate clothing and footwear if you plan to indulge in such activities.
• Inner Line Permit: If you are a foreigner or a non-Manipuri Indian citizen, you need to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit certain areas of Manipur. It is advisable to apply for the permit in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.

By following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Manipur.