Wandernest
Nestled in the green folds of Northeast India, Manipur is a treasure trove of culture, nature, and tradition. Known as the “Jewel of India”, this lesser-explored state offers an experience far removed from mainstream travel hubs. With emerald lakes, mist-covered hills, and indigenous heritage, Manipur is ideal for offbeat travelers looking to connect with nature and culture alike.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, nature lover, or cultural enthusiast, here are the top 5 destinations in Manipur—along with the must-do activities to make your journey unforgettable.
1. Loktak Lake – The Floating Paradise
Location: Moirang, Bishnupur District
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Loktak Lake is the beating heart of Manipur—literally and symbolically. It’s the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and is best known for its unique floating phumdis—masses of vegetation, soil, and organic matter that form miniature islands on the lake’s surface.
Must-Do Things:
- Boat ride through the phumdis: Witness the surreal sight of floating islands as local boatmen guide you through the maze of water and green.
- Visit Keibul Lamjao National Park: The only floating national park in the world and home to the endangered Sangai deer, Manipur’s state animal.
- Stay in a lakeside or floating homestay: Wake up to misty mornings and the soothing sounds of water and birds.
Tip: Early morning is the best time for boat rides and birdwatching.
2. Imphal – History, Culture, and Vibrant Markets
Location: Central Manipur
Best Time to Visit: October to February
As the capital city of Manipur, Imphal is where ancient tradition meets urban energy. It’s a place where history lives in fort walls, where women run Asia’s largest all-female market, and where every street has a story to tell.
Must-Do Things:
- Explore Kangla Fort: This iconic site was once the royal palace of Manipur’s rulers. A guided tour will walk you through centuries of rich Meitei heritage.
- Shop at Ima Keithel (Mother’s Market): A cultural marvel where thousands of women manage every stall, selling everything from spices and textiles to handmade crafts.
- Visit the INA Memorial Complex: A site of great historical significance where Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose hoisted the Indian national flag during the freedom movement.
- Witness Manipuri dance: Visit the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy or catch a local performance to see this graceful classical dance form in its true essence.
Don’t leave without tasting Eromba, a spicy fermented dish that locals love!
3. Ukhrul – Hills, Lilies, and Tribal Hospitality
Location: About 84 km from Imphal
Best Time to Visit: May to September (for Shirui Lily bloom), October to February (for trekking and clear skies)
Ukhrul is a scenic hill town inhabited by the Tangkhul Naga tribe. It’s quiet, clean, and known for its rolling hills, vibrant culture, and the world-famous Shirui Lily—a rare flower that blooms only in this region.
Must-Do Things:
- Trek to Shirui Hills: If you’re visiting between May and June, you might be lucky enough to see the elusive Shirui Lily in full bloom. The view from the hills is breathtaking.
- Visit Khayang and Khangkhui Caves: Ancient limestone caves with historical significance and local folklore surrounding them.
- Experience local festivals: The Shirui Lily Festival (usually held in May) showcases the best of Tangkhul Naga culture—dance, music, indigenous cuisine, and crafts.
Ukhrul is also a great spot for photographers and documentary filmmakers looking for authentic tribal stories.
4. Moreh – Cross-Cultural Gateway
Location: Indo-Myanmar Border
Best Time to Visit: November to February
Moreh is a fascinating border town and a vital trade hub between India and Myanmar. Located just a few kilometers from the town of Tamu in Myanmar, Moreh offers a blend of cultures, languages, and cuisines unlike anywhere else in India.
Must-Do Things:
- Day trip to Tamu (Myanmar): With the right documentation (and local advice), you can cross over to Myanmar and explore markets selling everything from Burmese handicrafts to exotic street food.
- Visit the Indo-Myanmar Friendship Gate: A symbol of diplomatic and trade relations between the two nations.
- Shop in local markets: From Burmese silk to Manipuri spices, the marketplace is a mix of cultures and colors.
Ensure you carry your ID and consult local authorities or travel agents regarding border crossing regulations.
5. Andro – Village of Living Heritage
Location: 25 km from Imphal
Best Time to Visit: October to March
Andro is a small village that has preserved its rich cultural identity over centuries. Known for its terracotta pottery and folk traditions, Andro offers a hands-on cultural experience that’s rare in today’s fast-paced world.
Must-Do Things:
- Pottery workshop: Try your hand at traditional Manipuri pottery techniques taught by skilled artisans.
- Andro Cultural Complex: A well-maintained center showcasing traditional homes of various ethnic groups in Manipur, complete with tools, textiles, and household items.
- Explore the village: Talk to locals, observe their lifestyle, and sample local food in homestays that offer a real taste of Manipuri hospitality.
Andro is great for slow travelers, art lovers, and those interested in ethnography.
Final Thoughts
Manipur remains one of India’s best-kept secrets. Far from the crowds, it invites you to slow down and soak in a land where folklore lives in everyday life and nature still rules untouched. The state’s beauty isn’t just in its landscapes but in its people, traditions, and stories that are deeply rooted in its soil.
Whether you’re gliding across Loktak’s mystical waters, hiking the Shirui Hills, or browsing at a women-run market, Manipur will surprise and stay with you long after you’ve left.