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Dimapur, Oct. 8 (EMN): Manipur was once described as the ‘Switzerland of India’ by Lord Irwin and ‘Jewel of India’ by Jawaharlal Nehru for its mesmerising landscape and natural beauty but it has failed to find a place in the tourism map mainly due to its geographical location. However, the inflow of tourists has increased over the years, thanks to internet and improved air and road connectivity.
Located in the Northeast India and sharing borders with Nagaland, Mizoram and Assam states as well as international border with Myanmar, Manipur measures 22,327 sq. km in area and has a population of 2,855,794 as per 2011 census.
It is rich in biodiversity and is home to many flora and fauna. Some of the tourist destinations in the state include Loktak Lake, Shirui Hills and Dzuko Valley.
Loktak Lake
Located in Bishnupur district, about 48 km away from the capital city Imphal, Loktak Lake attracts thousands of visitors from foreign countries, Indians and people of the state alike every year. It is also the largest freshwater lake in the Northeast India. This iconic lake is known for its unique floating swamps known as Phumdis, and the world’s only floating Keibul Lamjao National Park, the home of Sangai or brow-antlered deer.
Khonghampat Orchidarium
Khonghampat Orchidarium is located in Imphal East and West districts, just 10 km away from Imphal. The place houses more than 110 unique varieties of orchids across 200 acres. For nature lovers, orchids are a treat when it bloom in March-April.
Shirui Hill
Shirui Hill is home to Shurui lily or lilium mackliniae, a rare Indian species of plant found only in the area. It is in Ukhrul district, 90 km away from Manipur capital city Imphal, the hill looks beautiful especially in May and June when the state flower (Shurui lily) blooms.
Khangkhui Lime Caves
Khangkhui Lime Caves are located in Ukhrul district, about 90 km from the capital city. Take a walk back in time to this prehistoric sedimentary limestone cave enclosed by different patterns of stalagmites and stalactites. Tourists, archaeologists, and researchers alike will have an enthralling experience here.
Dzuko Valley
Dzukou Valley is located in Manipur-Nagaland border, about 82.8 km from Imphal. It is becoming one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Northeast region over the years with its jaw-dropping landscapes and flora attracting thousands of visitors from within and outside the country. The best time to visit the valley is between June-end and September.
Tharon Cave
Located in Tamenglong district, Tharon Cave is a mystical cave of great archaeological and historical significance with excavations revealing items belonging to the Vietnamese Hobinian culture. It is about 180 km away from Imphal and an ideal destination for the adventurous.
Bunning Meadow
Home to various orchids and wild lilies, Bunning Meadow is a place nature lovers should not miss. It is located in Tamenglong district, about 180 km from Imphal, and the best time to visit in June.
Zeilad Lake
Located in Tamenglong district, Zeilad Lake is 180 km away from Imphal. Home to different varieties of fish, birds and pythons, it is an undiscovered destination nature and wildlife lovers will love.
Barak Waterfalls
Barak Waterfalls is located in the forest of Tamenglong district, about 180 km from Imphal. This picturesque waterfall is an ideal destination for those who love water sports like rafting. It is a popular picnic spot.
Yangkhullen village
Yangkhullen village is in Senapati district, about 135 km from Imphal and 80 km from Senapati town. Home to the Zeme Naga tribe, this hamlet is built on a rocky slope. Besides breathtaking view after hiking a few kilometres to the village, the place has so much to offer, including mysterious monoliths.
(With inputs from Manipur Tourism department)