Things to do in Imphal for a Fantastic Holiday

Things to Do in Imphal for a Fantastic Holiday

Are you planning a trip to Imphal, the capital city of Manipur, India? Imphal is known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and historical significance. There are several things to do in Imphal that can make your trip memorable. In this article, we'll explore some of the top things to do in Imphal to make your holiday fantastic.

1. Visit the Kangla Fort

Kangla Fort is a historical fort in Imphal that was once the seat of power for the Manipur kingdom. The fort has a rich history and has witnessed many battles. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and is maintained by the Indian Army. You can explore the fort and learn about its history and significance.

2. Explore the Loktak Lake

Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and is located near Imphal. The lake is known for its floating islands called phumdis, which are made of vegetation and soil. You can take a boat ride on the lake and explore the phumdis. You can also visit the Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is located on one of the phumdis and is home to the endangered Sangai deer.

3. Visit the War Cemetery

The War Cemetery in Imphal is a memorial to the soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. The cemetery is well-maintained and has several graves of soldiers from the Allied forces. It is a peaceful place and offers a chance for reflection and remembrance.

4. Shop at the Ima Keithel

Ima Keithel, also known as the Mother's Market, is a unique market in Imphal run entirely by women. The market sells a variety of items such as handloom products, traditional clothing, and fresh produce. It is a great place to shop for souvenirs and experience the local culture.

5. Visit the Manipur State Museum

The Manipur State Museum is a must-visit for history and art lovers. The museum has a collection of artifacts, manuscripts, and paintings that showcase the history and culture of Manipur. You can learn about the different tribes of Manipur and their customs and traditions.

6. Explore the Shri Govindjee Temple

The Shri Govindjee Temple is a popular Hindu temple in Imphal that is dedicated to Lord Krishna. The temple has a unique architecture and is known for its beautiful carvings and paintings. You can attend the daily puja (worship) and experience the spiritual atmosphere of the temple.

7. Take a Stroll in the Khonghampat Orchidarium

The Khonghampat Orchidarium is a botanical garden in Imphal that has a collection of over 110 varieties of orchids. The garden is a great place to take a stroll and admire the beauty of the orchids. You can also buy orchids and other plants from the garden.

8. Taste the Local Cuisine

Imphal is known for its unique cuisine that has a blend of Indian and Southeast Asian flavors. You can try local delicacies such as Eromba, Chak-hao kheer, and Paknam. You can also try the local tea, which is made with herbs and has a distinct flavor.

9. Attend the Lai Haraoba Festival

The Lai Haraoba Festival is a popular festival in Manipur that celebrates the creation of the world according to the Meitei mythology. The festival involves music, dance, and rituals and is a great way to experience the local culture. The festival is usually heldduring the months of April and May and draws a large number of tourists.

10. Trek to the Dzukou Valley

The Dzukou Valley is a picturesque valley located near Imphal that is known for its beautiful landscapes and trekking trails. The valley is home to a variety of flora and fauna and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. You can take a trek to the valley and experience the natural beauty of the region.

11. Visit the INA Memorial

The INA Memorial is a tribute to the soldiers of the Indian National Army who fought for India's independence from British rule. The memorial is located in Moirang, which is a town near Imphal. You can explore the memorial and learn about the contributions of the INA soldiers.

12. Attend the Manipur Sangai Festival

The Manipur Sangai Festival is a popular festival that is held annually in Imphal. The festival is a celebration of the state's culture, traditions, and cuisine. The festival involves various cultural events, including folk dances, music performances, and sports events. You can attend the festival and experience the vibrant culture of Manipur.

13. Visit the Andro Village

Andro Village is a small village located near Imphal that is known for its pottery. The village has a unique pottery-making tradition that has been passed down for generations. You can visit the village and learn about the pottery-making process and even try your hand at making pottery.

14. Explore the INA Museum

The INA Museum is located in Moirang and is dedicated to the Indian National Army. The museum has a collection of artifacts, photographs, and documents that showcase the history of the INA and its role in India's struggle for independence. You can explore the museum and learn about the INA's contribution to India's freedom movement.

15. Relax at the Sendra Island

Sendra Island is a small island located near Imphal that is known for its serene and peaceful atmosphere. You can take a boat ride to the island and spend some time relaxing and enjoying the beautiful views of the lake. You can also try fishing and other water sports activities on the island.

In conclusion, Imphal offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and historical significance. From exploring historical forts and museums to trekking in the beautiful valleys and experiencing the local culture and cuisine, there are several things to do in Imphal that can make your holiday fantastic. So pack your bags and head to Imphal for a memorable holiday experience.