Top Things to Do in the Imphal | Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Plan Your Travel To Imphal

Places To Visit In Imphal

Ebudhou Thangjing Temple, Moirang

Located in Bishnupur, Moirang is famous for its rich cultural background. During May, when the Moirang Lai Haraoba festival is celebrated, people flock to seek the blessings of 'Ebudhou Thangjing'. The festival continues for almost a month and on each Sunday, a mega cultural program is offered to the deity. This is also the place where the freedom struggle was started by Netaji Subhashchandra Bose and where he hoisted the flag on 14th April 1944. Read More

Once used as the unofficial headquarters of the Indian National Army, this memorial was built to honour the soldiers who had sacrificed their lives for India. Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose motivated and formed armies here to participate in the freedom struggle.

Also known as the Palace of Kangla, this place situated on the banks of the Imphal river, served as the royal palace of King Pakhangba. After 2003 this fort has been open for public viewing. It has historical as well as archaeological significance which makes it a great tourist attraction.

Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park in the world, is located in the north-east Indian state of Manipur. It lies in the district of Bishnupur and is a vital part of Loktak Lake. The fact that it is a floating island is a unique feature that attracts nature enthusiasts and researchers from all over the world. This aspect of nature is magical and can only be seen only here, in Imphal. As one explores the National Park, they will come across many species including an endangered species of Deer, called the Brow Antlered Deer, Eld's deer or the dancing deer. This deer is locally called Sangai. So make sure you carry your binoculars and a good camera to capture some fabulous pictures. The Keibul Lamjao National Park is a vast expanse of nature covering over 40 square kilometres of area. It is home to various species of plants and animals, including the migratory visitors. The beautiful park hosts over 450 varieties of orchids and has perfect climatic conditions for over 100 species of aquatic flora and numerous species of birds like East Himalayan Pied Kingfisher, Black kite, ducks etc.The national park was initially a sanctuary, however, only after it was announced that the beautiful dancing deer is an endangered species was the park declared as a National Reserve in 1977. Due to infringement and demand by the locals, the natural reserve has also been reduced, but the mesmerising view of the phumdis in the crystal clear lake waters under the clear striking blue skies is a sight never to be missed. Read More

This historically important place marks the site where Major General Paona along with his soldiers fought against the British invasion, ending in complete British control over Manipur. In the open air gallery, a 78 feet long boat called the Hiyang Hiren can be viewed. Science fairs and exhibitions are also carried out here.

One of the major attractions of the city, Langthabal is most famous for its magnificent temples and historical monuments. The jackfruit and pine plantations among the splendid architectural beauties are a must see.

The largest fresh water lake in the country, Loktak Lake and the Sendra Island on it, are one of the most beautiful attractions of the state. Situated about 50 km from Imphal, Loktak Lake is situated in the valley of Imphal and is home to all the rivers and rivulets that run in the state of Manipur. Loktak Lake and Sendra Island present a combination of beauty unmatched anywhere else in the country. One is the largest freshwater lake in India while the other a floating island made of organic waste on the very same lake, housing the only tourist home in the area. The Lake consist within itself many other floating islands which sustain fishermen villages and are also made of organic waste. The pristine water, the labyrinth of boat routes, the greenery of the surroundings and the riveting crimson sunset, provide one a mesmerizing site. Loktak Lake and Sendra Island are treasures of a dynamic ecosystem and demand protection and preservation. In recent years human encroachment has led to shrinkage of the lake. Read More

Set up in 1969, this museum caters to various categories of artifacts such as Ethnology, Archaeology, Natural History and Painting. It showcases articles owned by the Manipuri rulers.

Specialised in the preservation and breeding of rare species, this place with its lush greenery and calm atmosphere is surrounded by hills and was established in 1976.

Moirang is a small town nestled in the state of Manipur. This place has seen wars and upheavals in the past but is beautiful nonetheless. Moirang is famous for the Loktak Lake whose serene water is home to plethora of flora and fauna. This place is perfect for a weekend getaway to unwind and relax. Moirang is also a safe haven for Sangai deers which were once thought to be extinct. A short trip to Moirang will rejuvenate your soul and make you feel refreshed. HistoryMoirang is the very place where Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose along with his Indian National Army fought a war with Britishers. During the second World War, Moirang was the unofficial headquarters for Indian National Army from where everything was controlled. Flora and FaunaSince Moirang houses a serene lake and a national park, it is bound to be abundant in flora and fauna. A large number of animals and birds live here and can be spotted easily. Animals including sambar, barking deer, monkeys, Sangai deer can be seen roaming all around the place. Birds like hornbills, ducks, crows and kingfisher are the most common which can be seen fluttering their wings. A lot of migratory birds come and visit this place also. Snakes like Python and cobra are common in this place and can be seen making their way amidst trees. Places to Visit1. Loktak LakeLoktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in North India. People visit loktak Lake to see the large amount of phumbis floating over it. Loktak lake is home to a lot of flora and fauna. The lake is surrounded by lush green trees that makes the surrounding look serene and tranquil. A large number of water birds and migratory birds including hornbills and ducks visit this lake every year and can be seen fluttering around it. Animals such as sambhar, barking deer, wild Bear, monkeys, marbled cat and Indian python roam around this lake and can be spotted. This serene place is perfect to spend some relaxing time and enjoy some solitude.Source2. Indian National Army ComplexIndian National Army Complex is a treasure that depicts the Freedom Struggle through letters, photographs and other artifacts. A lot of unsung heroes of the freedom struggle are honoured. A bronze statue of Subhas Chandra Bose is erected in the complex to honour him. You can pay a visit to this museum anytime between 8am to 6pm.3. Keibul Lamjao National ParkKeibul Lamjao National Park is one of a kind as it is the only floating National Park in the world. This National Park is home to a lot of animals and birds. Some of the animals include Wild Boar, Sambar, flying fox, common shrew, bamboo rat and brow antlered deer. Being a floating National Park lot of fishes can also be seen. Channa striata, common carp, pool Barb are some of them. The national park also houses a lot of reptiles including tortoise, viper, Cobra, water Cobra, Banded krait, Asian rat snake and python that roam freely here. Colourful Birds such as Kingfisher, black kite, spot billed duck, Rudy shell duck, and Indian white beasted waterhen can be seen perched on the trees. The ideal time to visit the national park is between 6am to 10am in the morning and 5pm to 7pm in the evening. Guided tours of the national park are also available if you want to explore the place to the fullest.4. Sendra IslandSendra Island is a hidden gem in Moirang. This place encompasses a small hillock which is surrounded with water. The beauty of this place is simply mesmerizing. A lot of cafes and lodges are available on the hilltop. If you cannot stay here make sure to dine in the cafeteria to experience bliss. The serene water around the hillock and the verdant trees magnify the beauty of this place making it picturesque. 5. PhubalaLocated? at a distance of 5km from Moirang, Phubala is a picturesque village situated on the banks of Loktak Lake. Phubala is famous and visited by travelers for boating. People visit this village surrounded by verdant trees to rejoice some peaceful time and spend some moments in the lap of nature.6. TemplesMoirang is also a land of temples as a lot of beautifully constructed temples with pristine aura are located here. Pakhangba temple, Loktak Maru Temple, Ibudhou Thangnarel Temple, Oknarel Temple, Radha Mandhop Temple and Gopinath temple are some of the famous ones. People visit these temples in large numbers to pray and seek blessings. These temples are a must visit as they will fill you with positive vibes and make you feel calm.Things to DoBoatingYou can take a boating trip around the loktak lake and the Keibul Lamjao National Park or Phubala to explore the places to the fullest. The boat passes through colourful water plants and lush green trees which provides travellers with scenic beauty. Paddling in the water is the best way to spend some quality and peaceful time with your loved ones.FestivalsMoirang Lai HaraobaMoirang Lai Haraoba festival is celebrated with great zeal in the month of May. This festival is celebrated to worship and thank Lord Thangjing. Men and women come together and celebrate this festival by singing folk songs and dancing the famous Khamba-Thoibi dance which was originated in Moirang itself. Everybody is dressed in beautiful local attire and the festival is worth attending. Moirang is a great place to get away from the hustle bustle of the city and make memories amidst nature and myriad variety of flora and fauna. This place is filled with serenity and peace and a trip here will be totally worth it. Read More