Manipur Sightseeing, Quick Facts, History, Packages, Tours & Excursions

Manipur is a state in northeast India, sharing common borders with Myanmar in the east and the Indian states of Nagaland in the north, Mizoram in the south and Assam in the west. It forms a cup-shaped valley surrounded by hills of the sub-Himalayan ranges. Chinganguba (or Surameti) peak is the highest at 12,557ft.

The main ethnic group of Manipur is called Meitei. Their language, Meitei, is also known as Manipuri and is the main language of the state. Naga and Kuki groups also inhabit the land. Migrants from Bengal and Bangladesh form a significant proportion of the population.

Lai-Haraoba is the most important Manipuri festival. The week-long celebrations represent the beginning of the universe and is observed in the Manipuri month of Kalen (April-May). Manipuris are also known for their classical and folk dance traditions. Manipuri classical dance is one of the six classical dances of India. Agriculture is the main economic activity and paddy is the chief crop.

Imphal is the capital of Manipur. Dating from the 3rd century BC, it is one of the oldest urban sites in India. Shri Govindaji Temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and famous for dance performances. Khwairamband Bazar (Mother's Market) is a large market run only by women and an excellent place to shop for handicrafts and handloom textiles. Imphal was an important centre of action during the World War II. There are two War Cemeteries maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

Keibul Lamjao National Park is a unique wild life sanctuary in that it occupies a floating island in Loktak Lake, which is the largest fresh-water lake in northeast India. Bishnupur is known for its 15th-century Vishnu temple built with unusually small bricks. Ukhrul, east of Imphal, is the highest hill station of the state and is famous for a variety of land-lily called Soroi, and the Khangkhui Lime Caves.

Foreign nationals require a Restricted Area Permit to visit Manipur.