Manipur
The 'Jewelled Land' of floating lakes, classical dance and Asia's largest women's market.
At a glance
Ideal duration
4–5 days
Best season
Oct–Mar
Nearest airport
Imphal (Bir Tikendrajit)
Nearest railhead
Dimapur (Nagaland) / Jiribam
Inner Line Permit
Required (ILP)
Main languages
Meitei (Manipuri), English
Overview
Manipur is a lush valley ringed by hills near the Myanmar border. Its centrepiece is Loktak Lake with its floating phumdis and the rare Sangai deer, alongside the historic Kangla Fort and Imphal's famous all-women Ima Keithel market.
Best Time to Visit
October to March, when the valley weather is pleasant.
How to Reach
Imphal airport connects to Guwahati, Kolkata and Delhi; road links run via Dimapur (Nagaland) and Silchar (Assam).
Permit Requirements
Inner Line Permit (ILP) required for Indian visitors to Manipur; we arrange it.
Top Attractions
- • Loktak Lake
- • Keibul Lamjao
- • Kangla Fort
- • Ima Keithel
- • Moirang (INA)
- • Andro village
- • Shirui / Ukhrul
Local Cuisine
- • Eromba
- • Chamthong (kangshoi)
- • Singju salad
- • Chak-hao (black rice) kheer
Festivals
- • Yaoshang
- • Ningol Chakkouba
- • Lai Haraoba
- • Sangai Festival
Things to Do
- Boat among the floating phumdi islands of Loktak Lake
- Look for the rare dancing Sangai deer at Keibul Lamjao
- Browse Ima Keithel, Asia's largest market run entirely by women
- Walk the historic Kangla Fort in the heart of Imphal
- Drive up to the Shirui hills and Ukhrul for valley views
Know Before You Go
- An ILP is mandatory — arrange it before you arrive and carry copies.
- Stick to the main valley and tourist circuits and check current local advisories before travelling.
- Carry cash outside Imphal; ATMs are limited around Loktak and the hill towns.
- Evenings get cool in winter — pack a light jacket for October–February.
Packages for This Destination
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an Inner Line Permit needed for Manipur?
Yes, Indian visitors need an ILP for Manipur, which we arrange for you. Foreign nationals must also register as required.
What is Manipur best known for?
Loktak Lake with its floating islands and the rare Sangai deer, the historic Kangla Fort, and Imphal's all-women Ima Keithel market.
How many days do I need in Manipur?
Around 4–5 days covers Imphal, Loktak Lake, Moirang and a hill excursion to Ukhrul.
When should I visit Manipur?
October to March has the most pleasant weather. The Sangai Festival in November is a colourful time to visit.
Can I combine Manipur with Nagaland?
Yes. Kohima to Imphal is about a 5-hour drive, so the two states pair well — especially from late November into December, around the Sangai and Hornbill festivals.
Often Combined With
Plan your Manipur trip
Tell us your dates and travel style — we'll craft a custom itinerary with permits, stays and transport sorted.
