Manipur’s Hidden Gem: Naamai Zho blossoms into tourist hotspot

DIMAPUR — All roads in Manipur lead to Naamai Zho this season as people of all ages, young and old, flock to this scenic site to witness cosmos flowers of varied colours that come into full bloom in autumn.

A sprawling picturesque meadow situated in Koide village with the scenic Barak valley in the background, Naamai Zho has become one of the hottest tourist destinations in Senapati district, Manipur of late, attracting people from near and far.

This year saw more than 10,000 people visiting the spot in just two days, to witness the 4th Cosmos Flower Festival cum 3-Men Open Volleyball Championship on October 12 and the 13th.  Some were seen enjoying their day-out with home-cooked food in the open lawn, while others chose to try local cuisines from a long line of stalls set up at the vicinity.

Besides creating memories by taking photographs amidst the cosmos flowers, visitors were seen engaging themselves in various activities including angling contest, raffle draw and other entertaining games organised at the venue.

In the 3-Men Open Volleyball Championship, which was participated by 21 teams from across Senapati district, the Khabung Karong Youth and Students’ Organisation (KKYSO) won the championship title by defeating the Notorious Volleyball Club, Senapati, in the final.

The inaugural function of the championship was attended by P S John Longkhaye, Youth Officer, Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of Manipur, who was also the functional president for the event, while a host of dignitaries, including Chief Guest Kowar Dilbung Lamkang, Special Contractor and President, All Manipur Football Association (AMFA), attended the finale.

The two-day Cosmos Flower Festival cum 3-Men Open Volleyball Championship has concluded but visitors can look forward to Traditional Food Fest to be held on October 19 at the same venue, where local businesses will be provided a platform to showcase the rich culinary traditions of the region, while offering visitors a taste of authentic local flavours.

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