MANIPUR
Manipur is a symbolic implication of a land which is believed to be created by the Almighty to dance in abandon. The state of Manipur is a paradise on Earth because the land creates relationship with cascading waterfalls, serene lakes, winding rivers and roads. This north eastern state has become a hot travel destination and Manipur tourism truly reflects its culture, people, dances, traditions and natural beauty in quite an extensive manner. For those who don’t know, the majesty of Manipur Tourism is increased with the existence of its rare and dancing deer called `sangai’. In addition, this little paradise on earth embraces people with her exquisite landscape.
The inhabitants of the state Manipur have been entitled as warriors since the days of kings and queens. Their attitude of warrior is evident from their competence to get exposure in martial arts, hockey, rugby and polo. Besides, the indigenous Manipuris breathe music, dance and sports and exhibit a tremendous zest for life.
Manipur Tourism
The beautiful and seasonal Shirui Lily at Ukhrul (district), Sangai (Brow antlered deer) and the floating islands at Loktak Lake are few of the rare things found in Manipur. Besides, the state of Manipur succeeds in drawing tourist attention with the support of its capital city, Imphal, Shree Govindajee Temple, Keibul Lamjao National Park, Loktak Lake, War Cemeteries, Khonghampat Orchidarium and Manipur Zoological Gardens.
A Home to Alluring Cultural Heritage
Manipur has a rich and vibrant cultural heritage, which is reflected in its art, craft and literature. The state’s broad vision of art and culture has left their influence in the dance and music, not to forget to mention that its legends and folklore haven’t even spare. The “Raas Leela” is a masterpiece of Indian classical dance which portrays mystical bond of Lord Krishna and Gopis of Braja Vrindavan, their desires to come to agreement with the Lord.
How to Reach
Airways : Imphal, the capital of Manipur has a strong network of flights connecting to the other parts of India. The airport is located in Imphal and it accommodates various domestic airlines including Indian Airlines, Jetlite and Kingfisher Airlines operate regular flights to and from Imphal.
Rail Network: The rail link in Manipur is poorer as compared to other states of India. But you can find railway stations close to the state that include Guwahati, Silchar and Dimapur. These stations are connected with the rest of India.
Roadways: Travel to Manipur via road is convenient because the state owns an extensive network of National and State Highways to let people move from one place to another quite easily. At the same time, Manipur State Transport Corporation runs delux and AC scheduled buses regularly, which are plying day and night from Imphal to the other cities in the region.
So, visit Manipur and enjoy its enchanting natural beauty along with the fusion of its rich culture and tradition in style.
Hotel & Resorts
Hotel Imphal ,North AOC. (Govt Tourism Deptt.)
Imphal, Tel: +91 385 2421373/ 2423372
State Guest House ,Sanjenthong,
Imphal Tel. : +91 385 2451212
The Classic Hotel, North AOC, Imphal
Tel: +91 385 2443967/2443969
http://www.theclassichotel.in
Hotel Nirmala,M.G. Avenue, Imphal
Tel: +91 385 2458904/2459014
Hotel White Palace,M.G. Avenue, Imphal
Tel: +91 385 2452322
Hotel New Airlines, M.G. Avenue, Imphal
Tel: +91 385 2440593/09862351312/098623429687
Hotel Prince, Thangal Bazar, Imphal
Tel: 2450587/2449136/9774472234
Hotel Pintu, North AOC., Imphal
Tel: 2454172/2421272
Hotel Tampha,North AOC., Imphal
Tel: +91 385 2451486/2405479
Hotel Avenue,M.G. Avenue, Imphal
Tel: +91 385 2241173
Youth Hostel,Khuman Lampak, Imphal
Tel: +91 385 2453422
State Youth Centre,YAS. Govt. of Manipur,
Khuman Lampak, Imphal
Tel: +91 385 2320014
Hotel Anand Continental, Thangal Bazar, Imphal
Tel: +91 385 2449422/2449433
Hotel Kristina,Pologround Road, Paona Bazar
Tel: +91 385 2445255/ 2242093
Mass Hotel,Assembly Road, Imphal
Tel: 2444342/ 2452797
Hotel Yaisana, Thangal Bazar, Imphal
Tourist Attactions.
Imphal : Imphal, the capital of Manipur is a picturesque small town although Manipuris fondly call it Imphal city. It stands 780 meter above the sea level. The bombardment of Imphal by the Japanese war planes on Sunday the 10th of May 1942, during the second World War is still remembered as a sudden shock to the happy-go-lucky Manipuris.
Shri Govindajee Temple: A historic vaishnavite sanctum of worship inside the sprawling premises of the RoyalPalace, the abode of former Maharajas of Manipur, the Govindajee temple is an edifice of graceful and serene appearance. This temple of Shree Govindajee is devoted to Lord Krishna. It is a very important centre for the Vaishnavaites The temple with twin domes atop in sparkling colours of gold creates an atmosphere of spiritual bliss. There is a congregation hall or Mandop in front of the Mandir (Temple) where devotees gather in prayer to the revered idols of Lord Govindajee, His Consort Raseshori, Balabhadra and Balaram and Jaganath, Balabadra and Subhadra.The Khwairamband Keithel or the Ima Market: The uniqueness of this traditional market which buzzes in the heart of the State capital (Imphal) is that the vendors are all commonly called Imas (mothers). The commercial transaction of the market-begins from the wee hours of the morning till the late evening in both the seasons summer and winter
Kangla: In ImphalCity ‘Kangla’ was the ancient capital of Manipur from the ancient times down to the year 1891 A.D. It is the historical embodiment of Manipur Rulers and the people of Manipur, Kangla has a significant place in the heart and mind of the people of Manipur. The old Govindajee temple, outer and inner moat and other relics are perfect reflections of the rich art and culture of Manipur and her civilization.
War Cemetries: There are two sprawling compound of tombstones maintained under the aegis of the Commonwealth Graves Commission, these war cemetries in Imphal are serene memorial of those Indian and British soldiers who lost their lives in World War II (1939-1945). These historic monumentS are being visited by the relatives of those soldiers from far off lands off and on.
Khonghampat Orchidarium: A beautiful abode of orchids situated at Khonghampat a locality 12 Kms. away from Imphal on the National Highway (NH) No.39 is maintained under Central Sponsorship. The opulent-garden of orchids on the small hill slope of an area of 200 acres accommodates about 120 rare species of which nearly a dozen are found locally endemic.
Langthabal: The seat of a historic palace of the ancient kings of Manipur, Langthabal is at a distance of 6 kms. to the south-west of Imphal on the Indo-Myanmar Road. The architectural remnants of the ancient edifice would still enamour the visitors to the site. Langthabal, also known as Canchipur to-day, has now become a vital seat of learning with the advent of ManipurUniversity, a temple of modern education.
Manipur State Museum: This interesting Museum near the Polo Ground, has a fairly good collection and display of Manipur’s tribal heritage and a collection of portraits of Manipur’s former rulers. Particularly interesting items are costumes, arms & ammunitions, relics and historical documents.
Manipur Zoological Garden: ManipurZoological Garden at Iroisemba is only 6 kms. on the Imphal- Kangchup Road at the foot of the pine growing hillocks . Here apart from various endangered species, tourists can have an opportunity to see the graceful brow antlered deer (Sangai), one of the rarest & endangered species in the world, in sylvan surroundings.
Nupi Lal Memorial Complex: A tribute to the courageous Manipuri women who sacrifice thier lives fighting for justice against the British on 12th December, 1939.
MutuaMuseum: This Museum, a Cultural Complex is at Andro village (about 26 kms.) from the capital. Here artifacts of the State and from all over the North East are housed, such as pottery collection,rare coins,rare manuscripts of the state, paintings, basketries, bell metals, jewelleries, wood carving etc. There are exact replicas of the houses from different tribes and groups of the state like: Poumai, Kabui, Meitei, Kuki, Tangkhul etc.
Red Hill (Lokpaching): Red Hill is a hillock about 16 kms. from Imphal on Tiddim Road (NH – 150). It is a thrilling spot where the British and the Japanese fought a fierce battle during World War II. War Veterans had constructed “India Peace Memorial” a monument in memory of Japanese soldiers who died in the battle. It is a place of pilgrimage for Japanese tourists.
Loukoi Pat: This tiny lake located near the Tiddim Road on N.H. 150 at Bishnupur is a retreat for visitors from within and outside the state. Boating facilities and the scenic beauty of the place is able to mesmerise the visitors.
Sadu Chiru Waterfall (Sadar Hills): About 20 Kms. from Imphal beside the Tiddim Road (NH-150) is a picturesque site famous for its perennial Water Fall in a scenic foot hill. There are three waterfall spots. This is a newly open tourist spot.
Kangchup (Sadar Hills): 16 kms. from Imphal towards west, is a health resort on the hills over-looking the Manipur valley. The scenery is picturesque and worth seeing. With the construction of Singda Dam here, the place has become one of the important picnic spots.
Moirang: Apart from being an ancient suzerainty, Moirang today, is all the more akin to India’s political history. It was on the 14th of April, 1944 that the flag of the Indian National Army (INA) was for the first time hoisted on the Indian Soil of Moirang, about 45 Kms. away from Imphal, the capital of Manipur. Moirang is believed to be under the auspices of Lord Thangjing, an ancient deity. Moirang is also predominantly connected with the legend of Khamba and Thoibi, which is the fountainhead of Meitei Folklore. The annual festivities known as “Lai Haraoba” is performed in the month of May or Kalen to invoke Lord Thangjing. Some of the folk dance forms of Manipur originate from this episode of ”Lai Haraoba” organised at the abode of Lord Thangjingat Moirang in a lavish manner. The INAMuseum at Moirang is a treasure of relics connected with Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose’s struggle against British imperialism to emancipate the Indian motherland.
Loktak and SendraIsland: The legendary Loktak lake of Manipur is said to be largest fresh water lake in the entire North East. The lake, in fact, has an intrinsic influence on the economy of communities who inhabit the surroundings of the lake by d of its natural produce like fish and other varieties of vegetables from the sloppy greenery around the lake. Sendra, although a small hillock entangled by the lake-water on all sides is linked with the mainland through a pathway. A tourist-lodge is put up on the hill-top which is equipped with modern amenities including a Cafeteria.
Keibul Lamjao National Park: The only floating National Park in the world, on the LoktakLake is the last natural habitat of the “Sangai” (Rucervus eldii eldii) the dancing deer of Manipur. A glimpse of the deer in this unique wetland ecosystem is a must for any wildlife enthusiast. Other wildlife to mention a few are: Hog deer, Otter and a host of water fowls and migratory birds can also be sighted during November to March. The forest Department of Manipur maintains watch towers and two rest houses within the park.
Phubala: This is another locality with a close affinity to Moirang as well as the lake of Loktak, on the bank of which the place is situated. Boating as well as other water relocated sports are being introduced at Phubala. The story ofPhubala Hanuba (an oldman of Phubala) is an episode with terrific humour within the trend of the story of Khamba – Thoibi.
Khongjom War Memorial: Khongjom War Memorial, 36 kms. from Imphal on the Indo-Myanmar road is a major historical place. It was here that Major General Paona Brajabashi, one of the great warriors of Manipur proved his valor against the superior might of the invading British Army in 1891. The hillock at the foot of which he laid down his life in defence of his motherland, is reminiscent of the past heroic deeds of Manipuri warriors. A war memorial has been constructed on the top of Kheba hill; and Khongjom day is celebrated every year on 23rd April.
Kakching Gardenat Uyok Ching: A beautiful artificial garden on the way to Moreh, it has many exotic native flowers, herbs, orchids and is a must-visit for any domestic & foreign tourist.
Moreh: This is a busy market town on the Indo-Myanmar border, located at a distance of 110 kms. from Imphal. A commercial town and a real shopping paradise for shoppers where sundry products ranging from electronics to daily consumables are available in plenty. This place holds importance for the visiting tourists not only for being a border town but also for providing a unique opportunity to experience the different cultures, lifestyles of Myanmar through its border town at Tamu which is only 5 kms. away from here. There are ample hotels of medium range providing comfortable stay at Moreh.
Manipur Mountaineering Institute, Lamdan:About 44 kms. form Imphal, this Institute is the first of its kind in North East India. Adventure Sports training in Spidernet, Burma Bridge, Parasailing, Rock Climbing, Hill Trekking, etc. are imparted here. The Institute is managed by Manipur Mountaineering & Trekking Association (MMTA).
DzukoValley: It is a very beautiful green valley and the most pictureque place in Senapati District bordering Nagaland. It is famous for its rare terrestrial lily called “Dzuko Lily” and the enchanting snow clad valley during January & February. The highest peak of Manipur “MountIso” is also located behind this valley.
