Imphal: Complete Travel Guide 2025

Kangla Fort

⏱ 3-4 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Kangla Fort is a historically significant site that served as the ancient capital of Manipur. It holds great cultural and religious importance for the Meitei people.

Explore the ruins of palaces, temples, and ceremonial grounds. The fort offers insights into the rich history and royal heritage of Manipur. Key attractions include the Kangla Men Shrine and the Citadel.

Allow ample time to walk around the extensive grounds. Wear comfortable shoes and carry water, especially during warmer months.

Hours: 09:00-17:00 daily
Best Time: Morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat.
Getting There: Auto-rickshaw or taxi from Imphal city center.

Honest Take: Worth visiting to understand Manipuri history and culture. However, don't expect a perfectly preserved fort; it's more about the historical significance.

💡 Insider Tip:

Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the different structures within the fort.

Ima Keithel (Mother's Market)

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Ima Keithel is a unique market run entirely by women. It's one of the largest and oldest all-women markets in the world, and a vibrant hub of commerce and culture.

Browse through stalls selling everything from fresh produce and handicrafts to textiles and traditional medicines. Experience the lively atmosphere and interact with the local women vendors.

Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours. Bargaining is acceptable, but be respectful and polite.

Hours: 08:00-19:00 daily
Closed: Sundays
Best Time: Morning or afternoon for the best selection of goods.
Getting There: Located in the heart of Imphal city; easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.

Honest Take: A must-visit for a unique cultural experience. Skip if you dislike crowded markets.

💡 Insider Tip:

Try some of the local snacks and delicacies sold by the vendors in the market.

Loktak Lake

⏱ Full day ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, famous for its floating phumdis (heterogeneous mass of vegetation, soil, and organic matter). It's a vital ecosystem and a source of livelihood for many local communities.

Take a boat ride on the lake to explore the phumdis and visit Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park in the world. Observe the unique flora and fauna, including the endangered Sangai deer.

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking and boating. Carry sunscreen, a hat, and insect repellent.

Hours: Open 24 hours
Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds.
Getting There: Hire a taxi or shared vehicle from Imphal (approx. 45 km).

Honest Take: A highlight of any trip to Manipur. The floating islands are truly unique.

💡 Insider Tip:

Consider staying overnight in a guesthouse near the lake to experience the sunrise and sunset over Loktak.

Shree Shree Govindajee Temple

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

Shree Shree Govindajee Temple is an important Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Krishna. It's a prominent religious and cultural center in Manipur.

Observe the traditional Manipuri dance and music performances that often take place in the temple courtyard. Admire the intricate architecture and the serene atmosphere.

Dress respectfully when visiting the temple. Photography may be restricted in certain areas.

Hours: 06:00-12:00, 16:00-19:00 daily
Best Time: During morning or evening prayers for a spiritual experience.
Getting There: Located near Kangla Fort in Imphal city; easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.

Honest Take: A peaceful and culturally significant site. Worth a visit if you're interested in Hinduism and Manipuri traditions.

💡 Insider Tip:

Attend the Aarti ceremony in the evening for a particularly special experience.

Manipur State Museum

⏱ 2-3 hours ₹20 (Indians), ₹500 (foreigners)

The Manipur State Museum showcases the rich history, art, and culture of Manipur. It houses a diverse collection of artifacts, including archaeological finds, textiles, and tribal art.

Explore the exhibits on Manipuri kings, traditional costumes, weapons, and musical instruments. Learn about the state's unique cultural heritage.

Allow ample time to browse through the various exhibits. Photography is allowed in some areas, but check with the museum staff.

Hours: 10:00-16:30 daily
Closed: Sundays and public holidays
Best Time: Anytime during opening hours.
Getting There: Located in Imphal city; easily accessible by auto-rickshaw or taxi.

Honest Take: A good place to learn about the history and culture of Manipur. Worth a visit if you have an interest in museums.

💡 Insider Tip:

Focus on the sections that interest you most, as the museum has a wide range of exhibits.

Keibul Lamjao National Park

⏱ 4-5 hours ₹30 (Indians), ₹600 (foreigners)

Keibul Lamjao National Park is the world's only floating national park, located on Loktak Lake. It's the last natural refuge of the endangered Sangai deer (Manipur brow-antlered deer).

Take a boat safari through the park to try and spot the Sangai deer and other wildlife. Observe the unique ecosystem of the floating phumdis.

Wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for boating and walking. Carry binoculars for better wildlife viewing.

Hours: 06:00-18:00 daily
Best Time: Early morning for the best chance of spotting wildlife.
Getting There: Located within Loktak Lake; accessible by boat from nearby villages.

Honest Take: A must-visit for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Seeing the Sangai deer in its natural habitat is a unique experience.

💡 Insider Tip:

Hire a local guide who knows the park well to increase your chances of spotting wildlife.