Manipur is one of the seven states of North-Eastern India known as Seven Sister States. The capital city is Imphal. The state shares international border with Burma in the east as well as in the south.
Permits are needed for traveling in the region.
The Kingdom of Manipur was one of the princely states of British India. It has also witnessed many wars, including fighting during World War II.
Manipuris are famed for traditional dances, spicy multi-dish thalis (plates) and are credited with introducing Polo game to Europe.
MAJOR TOURIST SITES
Major tourist sites include: Ima Bazaar in Imphal, Loktak Lake, the Ancient Village Andro in close proximities to Imphal, Hiyang Tanaba Boat Race near Imphal, etc.
NATIONAL PARKS
The Keibul Lamjao National Park is the last natural habitat of the Manipur brow antlered deer, locally known as 'sangai'–the dancing deer of Manipur. The state of Manipur is bestowed with lush green vegetations and forested hills that provide cover for rare birds.
HANDICRAFTS
Popular handicrafts include hand-woven and embroidered textiles, mats made of water reed, Manipuri dance dolls, shawls and blankets, Manipuri bed covers of Moirangfee, cane and bamboo work, wood carving, etc.
FOOD
Manipuri cuisine is known for spicy foods, red chilli, rice, leafy vegetables, bamboo shoots and fermented dry fish, locally known as ngari. Popular dishes include: kangsoi (a soup of potatoes, tomatoes, dried fish and other vegetables), paaknam (sort of a pancake prepared with a mixture of pea flour), alu kangmet (boiled potato mashed with fried red chilli), chagem pomba (made with fermented soya, mustard leaves, roasted or smoked fish and other herbs), etc.
FESTIVALS
The Manipuri have a rich culture. Theatre has been part of varied festivals. Shumang Lila and Phampak Lila are popular stage dramas, while Ras Lila is a classical form of Manipuri dance based and inspired by the theme of Lord Krishna.
The various festivals of Manipur are: Yaoshang - one of the most important Hindu festivals of Manipur, known for Thabal Chongba dance form (February/March); Kut – a harvest festival celebrated by Kuki-Chin-Mizo tribe (November), Gan-ngai – a five day festival, celebrated by the Kabui Naga tribe (December/January); Cheiraoba – a celebration of the Manipuri New Year (April), etc.
CLIMATE
Manipur has generally amiable climate, though the winters can be a little chilly. The maximum temperature in the summers is about 32°C (89,6 °F) and below zero (32 °F) during winters. Monsoon season is between May and mid-October.
Best time to visit is September to April.
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