In a single word, Imphal can be described as “spectacular” and there are all the good reasons why this is appropriate to say. With innumerable places to visit and things to enjoy, diversity in flora and fauna, and multiple mouth-watering cuisines; Imphal is a true gem of North-East India. If you are planning to visit Imphal with your friends and family, then here are some places that shouldn’t be missed at any cost.
See Also: Best time to visit Imphal
Several people visit here every year to enjoy the beauty and environment of Imphal. Compared to the other places nearby; Imphal still lacks a lot of infrastructures. But that doesn’t mean it is anywhere less in luring people. Here is a list of places to visit in Imphal with your family and friends.
These are the top 12 places to visit in Imphal in 2023
1. Kangla Fort
If you were to witness the beauty of North-East India, there surely is one way of doing so and that’s by checking out the historic monuments.
Yes, you heard that right! And of the prime attractions of Imphal is the historic Kangla Fort. It is believed that this structure was built in 33 AD and it has been here since then. You can explore the fort to know what secrets it holds.
2. Manipur State Museum
Being the capital of Manipur- Imphal holds a lot of amazing attractions and these are only going to give the travelers an amazing time while they visit here.
One of the finest attractions in the city is located at the heart of Imphal and is named Manipur State Museum. It holds several ancient items like the smoking pipes tribes used, equipment for hunting and agriculture, Buddha relics and so much more.
3. Three Mothers Art Gallery
Unlike any other gallery in the country, Three Mothers Art Gallery has an amazing collection. Though you will find a range of artifacts here all in all the collection is quite amazing and interesting.
Most of the relics and artifacts housed here date back to ancient time and are based on mythical characters popular in Manipur’s legends. One thing amongst these products remains the same and that’s their carvings. All of them are made out of a single wood piece.
4. Loktak Lake
For starters, Loktak Lake is a freshwater lake that plays a vital role in the sustenance of 55 villages and hamlets. This is a group of islands that offers food, water, and occupation to people living around the lake.
Moreover, there are some amazing phenomena like the ring-shaped vegetation all around the lake that fascinate people a lot. Visiting here is the only way to understand what this place exactly has on offer.
5. Santhei Natural Park, Andro
Imphal holds a lot of important and amazing attractions of Manipur and Santhei Natural Park, Andro is one of them. It is probably one of the best attractions of Manipur for a lot of reasons.
It is the cultural hub of the state and a lot of festival celebrations have this place as its epicenter. While you visit here, you will be up for a treat in many regards.
6. Tharon Cave
Tharon Cave has located approximately 27 km from the Tamenglong district of Manipur. It is a must-visit place because it holds a lot of significance and historic importance.
Tharon Cave is considered to be the shelter of many tribes who lived in Manipur for a long time. Also, there was an excavation initiated inside the cave that brought out the items that relate to North Vietnam’s Hoabinhian Culture. If you are up for exploring then head to the cave.
7. Ima Keithel Women’s Market
Also known as Khwairamband Bazar is a very popular shopping complex in Imphal. While you are visiting this city, you might just want to take some souvenirs back to your home. If that’s the case, you can head to the Ima Keithel Women’s Market.
There is another very interesting thing about this market; it is approximately 500-years-old. And a very good thing about this place is that it is entirely managed by 5000 women. How interesting would this be? You surely will enjoy visiting here because it also offers a huge range of things to offer. So plan out things before you visit here and while creating an itinerary; do not miss out on visiting this market.
Timings of the market: Monday to Saturday: 9:30 am to 6 pm
8. ISKCON Temple, Imphal
Devotees of Lord Krishna also have a reason to visit here and this one is the best for you. Imphal has a beautifully designed and crafted ISKCON Temple. You can visit here to offer your prayers to the Lord and seek his blessings. This is one of the best places to visit In Imphal and irrespective of the fact that you are a follower of ISKCON or not, there will be a lot of things here that would keep you dumbstruck. The infrastructure of this temple is simply breathtaking and enchanting. You can visit here anywhere between Monday to Sunday between 4:30 am and 9 pm.
Distance between ISKCON and Imphal airport: 2 km
Distance between ISKCON and Imphal Noney Railway Station: 63 km
Distance between ISKCON and Imphal Bus Stand: 6 km
9. Kangla Palace
Kangla Palace, also known as Kangla Fort, is a historical palace located in Imphal, the capital city of Manipur. The palace was the traditional seat of the Manipuri kings and is considered to be the center of culture and identity. It was originally built in the 17th century but has undergone several reconstructions over the years due to wars and conflicts.
The palace is a symbol of the state’s rich history and culture and is an important tourist attraction in Manipur. It has several important structures within its complex, including the Kangla Museum, the Kangla Sha, and the Govindajee Temple. The palace is also the site of many cultural and religious events and is revered by the people of Manipur.
10. Matai Garden
Matai Garden is a popular park located in Imphal, the capital city of Manipur in northeastern India. The park is known for its lush greenery, colorful flowers, and serene ambiance, making it a popular recreational spot for locals and tourists alike. It is spread across an area of about 10 acres and has several walking trails, benches, and picnic spots.
The park also has a small lake where visitors can enjoy boating. Matai Garden is especially popular during the spring season when the flowers are in full bloom, and it becomes a colorful paradise. Overall, Matai Garden is a tranquil oasis in the midst of the bustling city of Imphal, providing visitors with a peaceful and relaxing environment to enjoy.
11. Bir Tikendrajit Park
The park named after a freedom fighter from Manipur, Bir Tikendrajit Park, is a significant attraction of Imphal. The park is dedicated to a fighter who played and important role in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891 against British colonial rule. The park was established in his honor and is a popular tourist attraction in Imphal. The park has a large statue of Bir Tikendrajit, as well as other important historical figures from Manipur. It also has a musical fountain, several walking paths, and lush green lawns. The park is surrounded by hills and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. Bir Tikendrajit Park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a peaceful and scenic respite from the hustle and bustle of the city.
12. Shaheed Minar
Shaheed Minar is a historic monument of in Imphal and a prominent attraction of this place. It was built to commemorate the courage and sacrifice of the martyrs of Manipur who fought against British colonial rule in the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. The Shaheed Minar is a tall tower made of concrete and steel, rising to a height of 11 meters.
The tower is adorned with sculptures and motifs that symbolize the bravery and resistance of the Manipuri people. The monument is surrounded by well-maintained lawns and gardens, and it is illuminated at night, making it a popular spot for visitors. Shaheed Minar is an important symbol of Manipuri identity and pride and is a significant landmark in Imphal.
Conclusion
From pilgrim spots to amazing markets; there are multiple attractions where people can spend some time with their loved ones. Your trip to Imphal can also be a bit better if you visit here to enjoy the local food and culture. If planning on visiting in winter which is also the best time to visit Imphal; things can be a bit more enthralling. Enjoy outdoor activities, natural beauty, and a lot of other things offered here. Just like ISKON Temple, there are monasteries and other temples in Imphal.
So plan your trip in a wholesome way to enjoy every bit of it and make every day you stay here count. Last but not the least, make sure that you have spent some time with the adivasis as well.
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