Manipur occupies a bowl-shaped valley surrounded by hills and is often called the 'Jewel of India'. Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, has floating islands called phumdis that support an endemic species, the Sangai deer. Polo was born in Manipur, and the Meitei culture has preserved an ancient classical dance form (Manipuri dance) that was nearly lost. Ima Keithel in Imphal is the world's largest all-women market, operating continuously for over 500 years.
An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for all non-Manipur Indian nationals. The ILP is valid for 10-30 days and can be obtained online, at Imphal Airport on arrival, or at the Manipur border checkposts.
Cities to Explore
Hub Cities & Gateways
Major base cities to plan your Manipur trip from
Imphal
Essential hub city for exploring Manipur. Capital and main entry hub; base for most of the state.
Explore city guide Loktak Lake
Essential hub city for exploring Manipur. Signature lake hub with floating islands and rare Sangai deer.
Explore city guideUkhrul
Essential hub city for exploring Manipur. Hill-station hub east of Imphal; Tangkhul Naga culture and treks.
Explore city guideFood & Dining
Restaurants & Cafes in Manipur
102 dining spots across 3 cities
The full list
All destinations in Manipur
Manipur Travel: Common Questions
- What is Manipur famous for?
- Manipur is famous for Loktak Lake (the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, known for its floating phumdis and the endangered Sangai deer), Ima Keithel in Imphal (the world's largest all-women market), Kangla Fort (the ancient seat of Meitei kings), the Shirui Lily (a flower endemic to Shirui Peak), and Manipuri classical dance.
- Do I need an Inner Line Permit to visit Manipur?
- Yes. An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is required for all non-Manipur Indian nationals and foreign nationals. It can be obtained online through the Manipur government portal, at Imphal Airport on arrival, or at the land checkposts at Jiribam, Mao, and Moreh. It is usually issued for 10-30 days.
- What is the best time to visit Manipur?
- October to March is the best time to visit Manipur, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies. The Shirui Lily blooms on Shirui Peak in April-May. The Sangai Festival is held in Imphal each November, coinciding with the Sangai deer rutting season at Loktak Lake.
- How do I get to Manipur?
- Imphal International Airport (IMF) is well-connected with direct flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bengaluru. No railway line reaches Imphal yet. By road, NH-2 connects Imphal to Dimapur in Nagaland (about 215 km), which has the nearest railway station.