What To Do in Imphal

Adventure activities nearby Imphal

Apart from the adventure activities available in Imphal, there are several nearby places where you can indulge in various outdoor activities. Here are some of the top adventure activities near Imphal:

Zipline and Rappelling at Tharon Cave: Tharon Cave is located about 120 km from Imphal and is famous for its natural limestone formations. The cave also offers adventure activities such as ziplining and rappelling, which is a thrilling experience for adventure enthusiasts.

Trekking and Camping at Dzukou Valley: Dzukou Valley is located about 30 km from Imphal and is a popular destination for trekking and camping. The valley is known for its beautiful landscape and stunning views of the surrounding hills. You can go on a trek to explore the valley and camp overnight amidst nature.

Kayaking and Canoeing at Loktak Lake: Loktak Lake is located about 50 km from Imphal and is the largest freshwater lake in the northeast region of India. You can go kayaking or canoeing on the lake and explore its beautiful surroundings.

Rock Climbing at Khangkhui Cave: Khangkhui Cave is located about 30 km from Imphal and is a popular spot for rock climbing. The cave offers a mix of steep and moderate climbs, which is suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers.

Whitewater Rafting at Barak River: The Barak River is located about 100 km from Imphal and offers a range of whitewater rafting experiences for adventure enthusiasts. The river has rapids of varying difficulty levels, which makes it suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

These are just a few of the adventure activities you can try near Imphal. Make sure to plan your trip in advance and book your activities with a reliable tour operator to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

More Things To Do in Imphal

Apart from adventure activities, Imphal also has several other things to offer. Here are some of the top Things To Do in Imphal:

Visit Kangla Fort: Kangla Fort is a historic fort in Imphal, which was the ancient capital of Manipur. The fort has several historic structures, including the Kangla Palace, which was the residence of the Manipuri royal family. You can take a guided tour of the fort and learn about its rich history.

Explore the Manipur State Museum: The Manipur State Museum is a must-visit attraction in Imphal, which houses several artifacts and exhibits related to the culture and history of Manipur. The museum has a collection of rare manuscripts, ancient coins, and traditional textiles.

Attend the Manipur Sangai Festival: The Manipur Sangai Festival is an annual cultural festival held in Imphal, which showcases the rich culture and heritage of Manipur. The festival has several cultural programs, including dance, music, and theater performances, as well as handicraft exhibitions and food stalls.

Visit the Ima Keithel Women's Market: The Ima Keithel Women's Market is a unique market in Imphal, which is run entirely by women. The market has several stalls selling traditional Manipuri textiles, handicrafts, and local food items.

Take a stroll at the Imphal War Cemetery: The Imphal War Cemetery is a memorial for soldiers who died during the Second World War. The cemetery has several graves of soldiers from India, the UK, and other Commonwealth countries. The cemetery is a peaceful place to take a stroll and pay respects to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives.

These are just a few of the Things To Do in Imphal. Imphal has a rich cultural heritage and a beautiful natural landscape, which makes it an ideal destination for both adventure enthusiasts and culture lovers.

Places to visit in Imphal
Kangla Fort: Explore the historic Kangla Fort, which served as the royal palace of Manipur's rulers. It showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region.

Loktak Lake: Visit Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India. Take a boat ride to see its floating islands (phumdis) and enjoy the scenic beauty.

Shree Govindajee Temple: Pay a visit to the beautiful Shree Govindajee Temple, a significant Hindu temple in Imphal dedicated to Lord Krishna.

Manipur State Museum: Discover the art, history, and culture of Manipur at the Manipur State Museum. It houses a vast collection of artifacts and traditional costumes.

War Cemetery: Pay your respects at the War Cemetery, a memorial dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. It is a serene and well-maintained place.

Khonghampat Orchidarium: Visit the Khonghampat Orchidarium, a botanical garden renowned for its diverse collection of orchids. It's a paradise for nature enthusiasts and photographers.

Women's Market (Ima Keithel): Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Ima Keithel, an all-women market where you can find a wide variety of local handicrafts, textiles, and traditional products.

INA Memorial Complex: Explore the INA Memorial Complex, which commemorates the contribution of the Indian National Army in the fight for independence. It houses a museum and a war memorial.

Keibul Lamjao National Park: Take a trip to Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park in the world. It is known for its unique ecosystem and the endangered Sangai deer.

Andro Village: Visit Andro Village, known for its traditional Manipuri pottery. Explore the pottery museum and witness the traditional techniques of pottery-making.

Remember to check the current travel advisories and guidelines before planning your visit to Imphal.

Places to visit nearby Imphal

Moreh: Located on the India-Myanmar border, Moreh offers a unique cross-cultural experience. Explore the bustling markets, taste local cuisines, and visit the nearby Tengnoupal district for its scenic beauty.

Sendra Island: Located in Loktak Lake, Sendra Island is known for its picturesque landscapes and serene surroundings. Take a boat ride to the island and enjoy the tranquility.

Ukhrul: Situated around 83 kilometers from Imphal, Ukhrul is known for its mesmerizing landscapes and the vibrant Shirui Lily Festival held in May-June. It is also a great place for trekking and adventure activities.

Khongjom: Visit Khongjom, which holds historical significance as the site of the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. Explore the Khongjom War Memorial and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding hills.

Tamenglong: Explore the scenic beauty of Tamenglong, known for its lush green valleys, waterfalls, and caves. Visit the Zeilad Lake, Tharon Cave, and the ancient stone monoliths at the nearby Barak River.

Moirang: Discover the town of Moirang, located near Loktak Lake. It is famous for its association with the Indian National Army and the INA Memorial Complex. Don't miss the ancient temple of Lord Thangjing and the Moirangkhom dance.

Andro: As mentioned earlier, Andro is a village known for its traditional Manipuri pottery. Witness the pottery-making process, visit the pottery museum, and explore the nearby villages to experience the local culture.

Bishnupur: Located about 25 kilometers from Imphal, Bishnupur is known for its historical sites and religious significance. Visit the ancient Bishnupur Fort and the Vishnu Temple dedicated to Lord Vishnu.

Thoubal: Explore Thoubal, a district near Imphal, known for its natural beauty and agricultural fields. Visit the Thoubal Dam and enjoy boating in the reservoir. The district is also famous for its pineapples.

Kakching: Visit Kakching, a town known for its scenic beauty and cultural heritage. Explore the Kakching Garden, visit ancient temples, and witness traditional Manipuri dance performances.

These nearby places offer a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences, complementing your visit to Imphal.

History of Imphal

Imphal, the capital city of the Indian state of Manipur, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Here is a brief overview of the history of Imphal:

Ancient Period: The area around Imphal has been inhabited since prehistoric times. The region was ruled by various tribal kingdoms, including the Kangleipak kingdom. The region was influenced by Hinduism and Buddhism.

Medieval Period: In the 18th century, the Kingdom of Manipur emerged as a major power in the region. It was ruled by several dynasties, including the Ningthouja dynasty and the Khuman dynasty. The kingdom maintained diplomatic relations with neighboring kingdoms and had cultural exchanges with Burma (now Myanmar) and China.

British Rule: In the 19th century, Manipur came under British influence. The British established political control over the kingdom in 1891 after the Anglo-Manipur War. Manipur became a princely state under British administration and remained so until India gained independence in 1947.

World War II: Imphal played a significant role during World War II. It was the site of a fierce battle between the British Indian Army and the Japanese forces in 1944. The Battle of Imphal and the Battle of Kohima, collectively known as the Battle of Imphal-Kohima, marked a turning point in the war in Southeast Asia.

Integration with India: After India gained independence, Manipur, including Imphal, became a part of India in 1949. It initially remained a separate administrative unit but later merged with the Union of India in 1972, becoming a full-fledged state.

Modern Era: Imphal has witnessed socio-political developments and conflicts in recent decades. The region has experienced periods of insurgency and political movements advocating for various issues and concerns.

Today, Imphal stands as a vibrant city with a mix of historical landmarks, cultural heritage, and a growing urban landscape. It serves as an important administrative, commercial, and cultural hub in the northeastern part of India.

Culture of Imphal

The culture of Imphal, the capital city of Manipur, is rich and diverse, reflecting the traditions, customs, and lifestyle of the people of Manipur. Here are some key aspects of the culture of Imphal:

Dance and Music: Imphal is renowned for its traditional dance forms, particularly the Manipuri dance. Manipuri dance combines graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive gestures. The Raas Leela, a dance drama depicting the love story of Lord Krishna and Radha, is a popular form of Manipuri dance. Traditional musical instruments like the pung (drum), flute, and pena (a string instrument) accompany these dance performances.

Handicrafts and Weaving: Imphal is known for its exquisite handicrafts and handloom products. Skilled artisans create beautiful handwoven textiles, including the famous Manipuri shawls, sarongs, and phaneks (traditional wraparound skirts). The city is also known for its pottery, wood carving, and bamboo crafts.

Festivals: Imphal celebrates a range of colorful festivals throughout the year. The Lai Haraoba festival, held in April-May, is a major cultural event where traditional rituals, music, and dance performances take place. The Yaoshang Festival, celebrated during Holi, features traditional folk dances and sports like the Thabal Chongba (moonlight dance) and the Kang game (a traditional game played with pottery).

Cuisine: Imphal offers a unique culinary experience. Manipuri cuisine features a variety of flavors and ingredients, with an emphasis on locally grown vegetables, fish, and aromatic herbs. Traditional Manipuri dishes include Eromba (a spicy stew), Chamthong (a vegetable dish), and Singju (a salad). Black rice is a popular staple in Manipur.

Sports: Imphal has a strong sporting culture, particularly in indigenous sports. Manipuri people excel in martial arts, including Thang-Ta (sword and spear fighting) and Sarit Sarak (wrestling). Polo, believed to have originated in Manipur, is also a popular sport in the region.

Language and Literature: Manipuri (Meiteilon) is the primary language spoken in Imphal. The region has a rich literary tradition, with ancient texts and manuscripts written in the Meitei script. Manipuri literature encompasses various genres like poetry, prose, and drama.

The culture of Imphal is deeply rooted in its history, traditions, and close ties with nature. It continues to thrive and evolve, reflecting the pride and identity of the people of Manipur.

Take a trip to Imphal

Taking a trip to Imphal, the capital city of Manipur, can be a fascinating experience. Here's a suggested itinerary for a trip to Imphal:

Day 1:

Start your day by visiting Kangla Fort, the historic palace complex that symbolizes Manipur's royal heritage.
Explore the Manipur State Museum, which houses a vast collection of artifacts and showcases the art and culture of Manipur.
Visit the War Cemetery to pay homage to the soldiers who lost their lives during World War II.
Take a stroll through the Ima Keithel, the all-women market, to experience the vibrant local culture and shop for traditional handicrafts and textiles.
End the day by witnessing a traditional Manipuri dance performance, such as the Raas Leela or the Lai Haraoba dance.
Day 2:

Embark on a day trip to Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India. Take a boat ride to see the floating islands (phumdis) and the unique ecosystem of the lake. Visit the Keibul Lamjao National Park, home to the endangered Sangai deer.
Explore Moirang, a town near Loktak Lake, and visit the INA Memorial Complex to learn about the Indian National Army's role in the fight for independence.
Return to Imphal and explore the Khwairamband Bazaar, a bustling market where you can find local produce, spices, and handicrafts.
Day 3:

Visit the Shree Govindajee Temple, an important Hindu temple in Imphal dedicated to Lord Krishna. Take part in the morning aarti (prayer) to experience the religious rituals and atmosphere.
Head to Andro village, known for its traditional Manipuri pottery. Visit the pottery museum and witness the pottery-making process.
Explore the scenic beauty of the nearby Sendra Island, located in Loktak Lake. Enjoy the tranquility and capture beautiful views of the surroundings.
End the day by indulging in authentic Manipuri cuisine at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like Eromba, Chamthong, and Singju.
Imphal offers a blend of history, culture, natural beauty, and culinary delights. Remember to plan your trip according to the weather and check for any travel advisories or guidelines before visiting.