“Chandel” is a district located in the northeastern state of Manipur in India. It is the southernmost district of Manipur and is bordered by Myanmar to the south and east. The district headquarters is located in the town of Chandel, which is also the largest town in the district.
Chandel district is known for its scenic beauty, with hills, valleys, and rivers dotting the landscape. The district is home to several ethnic communities, including the Anal, Lamkang, Monsang, Moyon, Chothe, and Thadou-Kuki.
Tourist attractions in Chandel district include the Tengnoupal viewpoint, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, and the Khangkhui Cave, which is known for its stalactites and stalagmites. The district is also home to several waterfalls, such as the Hundung Mangjing, Nungrei, and Lamdan waterfalls, which are popular destinations for visitors.
Places to Visit in Chandel
Chandel, a district in Manipur, India, is a beautiful and serene place to visit with many natural attractions. Here are some of the top places to visit in Chandel:
Tengnoupal Viewpoint: The Tengnoupal viewpoint is located in the Tengnoupal town and offers a stunning panoramic view of the hills and valleys surrounding the area.
Khangkhui Cave: The Khangkhui Cave is a popular tourist destination and is known for its stalactites and stalagmites.
Yangoupokpi-Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary: The Yangoupokpi-Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area that is home to many species of animals and birds, including the rare and endangered brow-antlered deer.
Moreh: Moreh is a town located on the border of India and Myanmar and is a popular shopping destination for tourists.
Hundung Mangjing Waterfall: The Hundung Mangjing Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located near the village of Hundung Mangjing and is a popular picnic spot.
Chakpi River: The Chakpi River is a scenic river that runs through Chandel district and offers opportunities for fishing and boating.
Nungrei Waterfall: The Nungrei Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located near the village of Nungrei and is a popular destination for trekking and picnicking.
These are just a few of the many places to visit in Chandel district. Visitors to the area will find plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
Best Time To Visit Chandel
The best time to visit Chandel district in Manipur, India is between October and March. During this time, the weather is pleasant and cool, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The skies are clear, and there is little to no rainfall, making it an ideal time for sightseeing, trekking, and outdoor activities.
From April to September, Chandel experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity levels, which can make it uncomfortable for travelers. The monsoon season in Chandel can also lead to landslides and road closures, making it difficult to get around.
It’s worth noting that winters in Chandel can be quite cold, especially at night, so visitors should pack warm clothing if they plan to travel during this time. Overall, the best time to visit Chandel is during the winter months when the weather is comfortable and dry.
Things to Do in Chandel
Chandel, a district in Manipur, India, is a great destination for those looking to explore natural beauty and cultural heritage. Here are some of the top things to do in Chandel:
Visit the Khangkhui Cave: The Khangkhui Cave is a popular tourist attraction and is known for its stunning rock formations and stalactites and stalagmites.
Trek to the Hundung Mangjing Waterfall: The Hundung Mangjing Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall located near the village of Hundung Mangjing and is a great place to trek and explore.
Explore the Yangoupokpi-Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary: The Yangoupokpi-Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area that is home to many species of animals and birds, including the rare and endangered brow-antlered deer.
Shop in Moreh: Moreh is a town located on the border of India and Myanmar and is a great place to shop for unique souvenirs and local handicrafts.
Visit the Tengnoupal Viewpoint: The Tengnoupal viewpoint is located in the Tengnoupal town and offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Go Fishing or Boating on the Chakpi River: The Chakpi River is a scenic river that runs through Chandel district and offers opportunities for fishing and boating.
Attend the Sangai Festival: The Sangai Festival is an annual cultural festival held in Manipur that celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the state, including music, dance, food, and crafts.
These are just a few of the many things to do in Chandel district. Visitors to the area will find plenty of opportunities to explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
How to get around in Chandel
Getting around Chandel district in Manipur, India, can be a bit challenging as there is limited public transportation available. However, there are a few options for getting around:
Taxis and Auto-rickshaws: Taxis and auto-rickshaws are available in Chandel town and can be hired for short trips or for a full day. It’s best to negotiate the fare before getting in.
Private Cars or Bikes: Renting a private car or bike is another option for getting around Chandel district. There are a few rental companies in Chandel town, and prices vary depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration.
Shared Sumos or Jeeps: Shared sumos or jeeps are available for travel between towns in Chandel district. These are generally crowded, and the fare is relatively low.
Walking and Trekking: Walking and trekking are great options for exploring the natural beauty of Chandel district. There are several trekking routes, and visitors can hire a guide to accompany them.
It’s worth noting that road conditions in Chandel district can be poor, especially during the monsoon season, so it’s important to plan your travel accordingly. Additionally, it’s advisable to carry a map or GPS device as the road signs can be limited in some areas.
Where to eat in Chandel
Chandel district in Manipur, India, offers a unique blend of traditional Manipuri cuisine along with some popular Indian and Chinese dishes. Here are some of the best places to eat in Chandel:
Khuman Restaurant: Khuman Restaurant is a popular local eatery that serves traditional Manipuri dishes, including Eromba, Chamthong, and Ngari.
Bishnupriya Restaurant: Bishnupriya Restaurant is another great place to try traditional Manipuri cuisine, including fish curry, bamboo shoot pickle, and Chak-hao kheer.
Sana Restaurant: Sana Restaurant is a popular hangout spot in Chandel town that serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes, including biryani, noodles, and fried rice.
Raja Fast Food: Raja Fast Food is a popular street food joint that serves delicious and affordable snacks such as samosas, pakoras, and jalebis.
Shangrila Bakery: Shangrila Bakery is a popular bakery in Chandel town that serves a variety of freshly baked bread, cakes, and pastries.
Singh’s Coffee House: Singh’s Coffee House is a popular hangout spot that serves a variety of coffee and tea blends, along with light snacks such as sandwiches and pastries.
These are just a few of the many places to eat in Chandel district. Visitors to the area will find plenty of options to suit their taste and budget.
Famous street stalls in Chandel
Chandel district in Manipur, India, has a vibrant street food scene, with numerous street stalls offering a variety of local and Indian snacks. Here are some of the famous street stalls in Chandel:
Sawai Kitchen: Sawai Kitchen is a popular street stall in Chandel town that serves a variety of local snacks, including Singju (a spicy salad made with lotus stem), Chamthong (a vegetable soup), and Paknam (a rice flour cake).
Ningthoukhongjam Pani Puri Centre: Ningthoukhongjam Pani Puri Centre is a famous street stall that serves Pani Puri (a popular Indian snack made with crispy hollow puris filled with a tangy tamarind water and mashed potatoes).
Laitonjam Juice Centre: Laitonjam Juice Centre is a popular street stall that serves a variety of fresh fruit juices and shakes, including pineapple, watermelon, and mango.
Thokchom’s Chinese Fast Food: Thokchom’s Chinese Fast Food is a famous street stall that serves a variety of Chinese dishes, including noodles, fried rice, and Manchurian.
Yumnam Food Corner: Yumnam Food Corner is a popular street stall that serves a variety of local snacks, including Pakora (a deep-fried snack made with chickpea flour and vegetables) and Chana Chaat (a spicy chickpea salad).
These are just a few of the many famous street stalls in Chandel district. Visitors to the area can explore the vibrant street food scene and indulge in a variety of local and Indian snacks. It’s worth noting that street food can be spicy, so it’s advisable to check the spice level before ordering. Additionally, it’s important to choose stalls that maintain proper hygiene and cleanliness.
Where to stay in Chandel
Luxury accommodation
Chandel district in Manipur, India, is still relatively untouched by tourism, so there are limited options for luxury accommodation in the area. However, there are a few resorts and hotels that offer comfortable and luxurious stays. Here are some of the best luxury accommodations in Chandel:
Classic Grande: Classic Grande is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Imphal, the capital city of Manipur. It offers spacious rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. The hotel also features a spa, fitness center, and an outdoor pool.
The Classic Hotel: The Classic Hotel is another luxury hotel located in Imphal. It offers luxurious rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. The hotel also features a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center.
Baruni Hilltop Resorts: Baruni Hilltop Resorts is a luxury resort located in the scenic countryside of Chandel district. It offers luxurious rooms and cottages equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. The resort also features a restaurant, a bar, and a spa.
The Classic Grande Ghar: The Classic Grande Ghar is a luxury homestay located in Imphal. It offers luxurious rooms and suites equipped with modern amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. The homestay also features a restaurant, a bar, and a garden.
These are some of the best luxury accommodations in Chandel district. Visitors to the area can enjoy a comfortable and luxurious stay at one of these properties while exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
Where to stay in Chandel
Budget accommodation
Chandel district in Manipur, India, has limited options for budget accommodation, but there are a few affordable guesthouses and lodges in the area that offer comfortable stays at a reasonable price. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Chandel:
Hotel Sadafuli: Hotel Sadafuli is an affordable hotel located in the heart of Chandel town. It offers clean and comfortable rooms equipped with basic amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, and attached bathrooms. The hotel also features a restaurant and a bar.
N.S Guest House: N.S Guest House is a budget guesthouse located in Chandel town. It offers basic rooms equipped with amenities such as fans, attached bathrooms, and room service. The guesthouse also features a restaurant that serves local and Indian cuisine.
Hill View Guest House: Hill View Guest House is a budget guesthouse located in the scenic countryside of Chandel district. It offers basic rooms equipped with amenities such as fans, attached bathrooms, and room service. The guesthouse also features a garden and a terrace that offer panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Nirmal Guest House: Nirmal Guest House is a budget guesthouse located in Chandel town. It offers clean and comfortable rooms equipped with amenities such as fans, attached bathrooms, and room service. The guesthouse also features a restaurant that serves local and Indian cuisine.
These are some of the best budget accommodations in Chandel district. Visitors to the area can enjoy a comfortable stay at one of these properties while exploring the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region, without having to break the bank.
Travel Tips Chandel
If you are planning to visit Chandel district in Manipur, India, here are some travel tips that can help you make the most of your trip:
Plan your trip in advance: Chandel district is a relatively untouched and remote area, so it is important to plan your trip in advance. Make sure to research the area, the attractions you want to visit, and the best time to visit.
Be prepared for the weather: Chandel district experiences a tropical climate, so it can get hot and humid during the summer months. Make sure to pack light and breathable clothing, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
Respect local customs and traditions: Manipur has a rich culture and tradition, so it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, remove your shoes before entering temples and other religious places, and ask for permission before taking pictures of people.
Try local food: Manipuri cuisine is unique and delicious, so make sure to try the local food while you are in Chandel district. Some popular dishes include Eromba (a fish-based curry), Chamthong (a vegetable soup), and Chak-hao Kheer (a black rice pudding).
Be prepared for limited amenities: Chandel district is still relatively untouched by tourism, so there may be limited amenities and services in the area. Make sure to carry cash, basic medicines, and any other essentials you may need during your trip.
Hire a local guide: Hiring a local guide can help you explore the area better and learn more about the local culture and tradition. Make sure to hire a licensed guide who has good knowledge of the area.
Respect nature: Chandel district is home to many beautiful and natural attractions, so make sure to respect nature and not litter or damage the environment.
By following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Chandel district in Manipur.