Imphal – The Capital of Manipur

Tucked amid the blue-tinged hills of the Eastern Himalayas, Imphal, the vibrant capital of Manipur, is where ancient royal heritage meets untouched natural beauty. The city still breathes the rhythm of its warrior kings, the grace of Vaishnava devotion, and the calm of its serene valleys. Surrounded by emerald paddy fields and the Imphal River gliding through, the city is both urban and timeless—making it one of Northeast India’s most fascinating travel destinations.

For travellers exploring the Seven Sisters of Northeast India, a journey is incomplete without stepping into the soulful lanes of Imphal—a place where history, faith, art, and nature blend effortlessly.

Getting to Imphal

By Air

Imphal is easily accessible by air through the Bir Tikendrajit International Airport (Tulihal Airport). The airport connects the city with major Indian destinations such as Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, Aizawl, Agartala, Dibrugarh, Dimapur, and Bengaluru. The airport is just about 8 km from the city centre, making transfers quick and convenient.

By Road

A well-connected network of roads links Imphal to other northeastern cities. The Dimapur–Imphal Highway (via Kohima) is popular among travellers who love road journeys through mountain curves. You can also reach Imphal from Guwahati, Shillong, Aizawl, or Agartala via comfortable overnight buses or private vehicles.

By Rail

Currently, Manipur does not have a railway station; the nearest one is Dimapur, roughly 215 km away. From there, one can travel to Imphal by car or bus through scenic routes winding across the hills of Nagaland and Manipur.

Ema Keithel – The Women’s Market of Imphal

If there is one place that captures the essence of Manipur’s matriarchal spirit, it’s Ema Keithel, the “Mother’s Market.” Located at the heart of Imphal, this bustling bazaar is run entirely by women, making it the largest all-women’s market in Asia.

Dating back to the 15th century, Ema Keithel stretches over 3.5 kilometres and houses nearly 5,000 women vendors. From fresh vegetables, handwoven Manipuri shawls, bamboo crafts, fruits, and flowers to fish, utensils, and woollens—everything you can imagine is sold here. Men can shop, but only women can sell. Divided into three main sections—Ema Market, New Market, and Laxmi Market—it’s not just a place to shop but to experience the power of women shaping the region’s economy and culture.

Kangla Fort – The Soul of Manipur’s History

At the heart of the city stands Kangla Fort, a revered landmark that narrates 2,000 years of Manipuri history. Once the royal seat of the Meitei kings, this sprawling fort complex was the capital of the Manipur kingdom until the British invasion in 1891.

Myth and history intertwine here—local legends trace the origin of the Meitei dynasty to Pakhamba (33 AD), who ruled from Kangla. While the fort today lies in ruins, it remains a sacred site symbolising Manipuri pride and resistance. The moats, earthen ramparts, and ancient relics evoke a deep sense of the region’s regal past. Strolling through Kangla is like stepping into a living history book.

Shree Govindajee Temple – Where Faith Meets Elegance

Built in 1846 by Maharaja Nara Singh, the Shree Govindajee Temple is the largest and most important Vaishnavite shrine in Manipur. The temple’s twin golden domes gleam under the sun, while chants of devotion fill the air. Dedicated to Lord Govindajee (Krishna) and Radha, the temple also houses deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra.

The temple was rebuilt in 1876 after an earthquake, preserving its classic Manipuri architecture with a large congregation hall for festivals. Major celebrations like Janmashtami, Ratha Yatra, and Raas Leela draw thousands of devotees, making it one of Imphal’s most spiritually vibrant attractions.

Manipur State Museum – A Walk Through Time

Opened in 1969 by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, the Manipur State Museum is a treasure trove of the region’s rich cultural and ecological heritage. Its galleries display traditional costumes, tribal ornaments, archaeological finds, ancient manuscripts, musical instruments, and agricultural tools.

One of the highlights is a 78-foot royal boat displayed in the open-air section. The museum’s dedicated galleries on natural history, ethnology, and art make it a must-visit for history buffs and cultural enthusiasts. It’s open from 10 AM to 4:30 PM (closed on Mondays, 2nd Saturdays, and public holidays).

Imphal War Cemetery – Remembering the Fallen

Located at Dewlahland, Kabo Leikai, the Imphal War Cemetery stands as a solemn reminder of the fierce Battle of Imphal (1944) during World War II. The site commemorates over 1,600 Indian and British soldiers who laid down their lives resisting the Japanese forces. Maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, the cemetery’s perfectly manicured lawns and marble headstones inspire quiet reflection. It remains open daily from 9 AM to 4:30 PM.

Shaheed Minar – Tribute to Manipur’s Heroes

Inside the Bir Tikendrajit Park stands the towering Shaheed Minar, built to honour the Manipuri soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. Dedicated to Yuvraj Tikendrajit Singh and General Thangal, who were executed by the British, the monument reflects Manipur’s indomitable spirit and fight for freedom.

Loktak Lake – The Floating Jewel of the Northeast

A 90-minute drive from Imphal takes you to the spellbinding Loktak Lake—the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and one of the most unique ecosystems in Asia. The word Loktak literally means “the end of streams.”

What makes Loktak truly magical are the floating islands of vegetation, known as Phumdis, which drift gracefully on the water. Dotted across these floating masses are Phumsangs, or fisherman's huts, creating a surreal sight. The lake supports the livelihoods of thousands of locals and is also the main source of drinking water, irrigation, and hydropower for the region.

Boating is regulated and eco-conscious—life jackets are mandatory—but gliding across the calm waters among the Phumdis is an experience that stays etched in memory.

Keibul Lamjao National Park – Home of the Dancing Deer

At the southern edge of Loktak Lake lies the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the world’s only floating national park. Spanning around 15 square miles, it is the last natural refuge of the Sangai deer, also known as the “Dancing Deer of Manipur.”

The park is a haven for wildlife lovers and birdwatchers. Apart from Sangai, visitors can spot hog deer, migratory waterfowl, and a variety of aquatic species. The best time to visit is from November to April, when visibility is excellent and the weather is pleasant.

Singda Dam – A Scenic Escape

Just 20 km from Imphal, Singda Dam offers a refreshing day outing. Surrounded by pine-covered hills and lush valleys, this highest mud dam in the world doubles as a favourite picnic spot for locals. The tranquil waters and panoramic landscape make it an ideal getaway for those looking to unwind after city sightseeing.

Cuisine – The Flavours of Imphal

Manipuri cuisine is as diverse as its culture. While vegetarian dishes are common, fish, chicken, and pork dominate most local menus. A must-try is Eromba (a mashed dish with fermented fish and local vegetables) and Ngari-based curries. Try bamboo shoot delicacies for a truly local taste. The city’s restaurants offer everything from authentic Manipuri meals to pan-Indian and international cuisine, making dining in Imphal a memorable experience.

Weather and Best Time to Visit

Imphal’s climate remains pleasant for most of the year. October to April is the ideal travel period, with cool, dry weather perfect for sightseeing. Winters (December–February) are chilly but comfortable. Summers (April–June) are warm and humid, while July to September brings monsoon showers, turning the valleys lush and green.

Plan Your Trip with NBTT

If you wish to experience the best of Imphal and Manipur tourism, from Loktak Lake to Kangla Fort, plan your journey with experts who know the region like no one else.

NBTT Travel Solution Pvt. Ltd., a Ministry of Tourism-approved tour operator with over two decades of expertise in Eastern Himalayan tourism, offers personalised itineraries, local guides, transport, and complete travel assistance.

Contact us today at +91 9733300696 / +91 9733000593 to plan your Imphal experience the right way!