The best time to visit Manipur is between October and March. During these months, the weather is cool and pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. Winters (November–February) are especially popular for visiting Loktak Lake, exploring tribal villages, and attending local festivals. The summer months (April–June) are moderately warm but still comfortable for travel, while monsoons (July–September) bring heavy rainfall, which often causes landslides and makes travel difficult.

The main entry point to Manipur is Imphal, the capital city. The Imphal International Airport (Tulihal Airport) is well-connected with major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. By train, the nearest railway station is Dimapur (Nagaland), about 215 km away, from where one can take a bus or taxi to Imphal. Road connectivity from Guwahati and Silchar to Imphal is also available, but travel time may be long due to hilly terrain.
 

Manipur is famous for its natural beauty, rich culture, and classical dance form “Ras Lila.” The state is often called the “Jewel of India” because of its lush green valleys, blue lakes, and misty hills. It is home to Loktak Lake, the only floating lake in the world, and the rare Sangai deer found in Keibul Lamjao National Park. Manipur is also renowned for its handloom products, bamboo crafts, polo (believed to have originated here), and vibrant festivals.

A trip of 5 to 7 days is sufficient to cover the main highlights of Manipur. This allows travelers to visit Imphal, Loktak Lake, Keibul Lamjao National Park, Kangla Fort, and Ima Keithel (the world’s only women-run market). If you wish to experience tribal villages, cultural festivals, and adventure activities, extending your trip to 8–10 days is recommended for a more immersive journey.

Some of the most popular tourist attractions in Manipur include:

Imphal – the capital city with Kangla Fort, War Cemeteries, and Ima Keithel Market.

Loktak Lake – Asia’s largest freshwater lake, known for floating islands (Phumdis).

Keibul Lamjao National Park – the only floating national park in the world, home to the endangered Sangai deer.

Ukhrul – famous for Shirui Lily and scenic landscapes.

Moirang – historic town with INA Museum and access to Loktak Lake.

Tamenglong & Chandel – rich in waterfalls, caves, and tribal culture.

Yes, Manipur is generally safe for tourists today. While the state has had insurgency-related issues in the past, the security situation has improved significantly. The people of Manipur are warm and hospitable towards visitors. However, travelers should avoid remote border areas without proper guidance. It is advisable to move around with local tour operators for offbeat experiences and always carry some cash as ATMs may not be available in rural areas.

Yes, permits are required. Indian tourists do not need a special permit to visit most parts of Manipur. However, foreign tourists need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to enter the state. This can be obtained from the Ministry of Home Affairs or Indian Missions abroad. In addition, visitors planning to travel close to international borders should check with local authorities about any special permissions needed.

Manipur is called the “Land of Festivals” because of its vibrant cultural celebrations. Some important festivals include:

Yaoshang (similar to Holi) – celebrated with sports and dances in March.

Ningol Chakouba – a social festival where married women are invited to their parental homes for a feast.

Kut Festival – a harvest festival of the Kuki-Chin-Mizo tribes.

Kang Festival – a Hindu festival celebrated with Rath Yatra processions.

Sangai Festival (November) – the state’s biggest cultural event, showcasing art, music, sports, and traditions.

Manipuri cuisine is unique, flavorful, and mostly organic. Some must-try dishes include:

Eromba – mashed boiled vegetables with fermented fish and chili.

Chamthong (Kangshoi) – a light vegetable stew with herbs.

Nga-Thongba – fish curry with traditional spices.

Paknam – a pancake made with gram flour, vegetables, and herbs, wrapped in banana leaves.

Singju – a spicy vegetable salad.
For drinks, locals enjoy Yu, a traditional rice beer. The cuisine is light, healthy, and uses local herbs that make it distinct.
 

Manipur is slowly emerging as an adventure tourism hub. Popular activities include:

Trekking – in Ukhrul hills and Tamenglong.

Boating & Camping – on Loktak Lake.

Caving – in Khangkhui and Tharon caves.

Cycling & Hiking – through Imphal Valley and surrounding hills.

Birdwatching – at Keibul Lamjao and other wetlands.
Adventure lovers can also explore traditional village trails and experience authentic rural lifestyles.