Manipur

Manipur is a small state located in the north eastern part of the country. Mesmerized by her beauty, the first Prime Minister of India Jawaharlal Nehru had described Manipur as the 'Jewel of India'. Manipur indeed is a shining pearl in the Himalayan system. Geographically, the state can be divided into two parts- the Imphal Valley and the surrounding hills. The Imphal valley is full of small lakes and swamps. A part of the Himalayas, the hills are termed as sub-Himalayan ranges. All the hills are covered with a rich forest cover that includes rubber, tan, oak, ash, teak and palm. Many different varieties of bamboo are also found all over Manipur. Eeril and Thobal are the two big rivers of the state which originate from the hills and flow down into the valley. The blue hills surrounding the valley and covering the rest of the state give an enchanting look to the Manipur landscape.

The earliest recorded history of Manipur could be traced to 900 AD. The rulers of Manipur had to indulge in constant warfare with Myanmar. In 1826, the British took control of Manipur after signing the Treaty of Yandaboo with the Burmese. After India's independence, Manipur was first made an Union Territory and subsequently achieved statehood on 21 January, 1972.

Imphal, the capital of Manipur has a number of tourist attractions. They include the widely visited Shri Govindaji temple, war cemeteries and Khwairamband Bazar run exclusively by women. Iroishemba, on the outskirts of Imphal has a beautiful zoological park. Khonghampat Orchidarium keeps over 120 varieties of orchids which includes some of the rarest in the world. Langthabal is a place of historical importance having relics of an old palace, well planned temples and ceremonial houses. Moirang is the seat of early Manipuri folk culture. There are also a few beautiful temples in Moirang. 83 kms from Imphal, Ukhrul is the highest hill station of the state. But the most prominent attraction is Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park in the world. The park is also home to Sangai, one of the most endangered deer species in the world. Other animal species include hog deer, panther, fishing cat and wild boar.

A number of festivals are celebrated in the state. A strong influence of Vaishnavism on Manuipuri culture could also be seen. Classical and folk dance forms of the state are very popular. 'Lai-Haraoba', a spring festival held in April and May is one of the most important festivals of the state. Manipur also has a rich tradition of sports, particularly martial arts. The game of Polo had originated in the state. Keeping the polo tradition alive, Manipur organizes events that are participated by renowned players from all over the world. Sportsmen from Manipur have also made a mark in national and international sports events.

It is interesting to note that in Manipur, every household owns a loom and women specialise in the creation of innovative designs. The best buys of Manipur include exotic shawls, scarfs, blankets, flower vases, baskets, bamboo trays and hats. Krishna Radha dolls in Raslila pose are also exquisitely made.

The state of Manipur also boasts of a composite culture. It is inhabited by various ethnic groups. Manipuris constitute the majority of the population. A number of unspecified tribal groups are also inhabitants of the state. Other communities like Bengalis, Biharis, Sikhs, Jains and Nepalis also constitute a small percentage of the population.

Imphal, the capital of Manipur figures in the air map of India. Indian Airlines operates flights to Imphal from Kolkata and Delhi. At a distance of 215 kms from Imphal, Dimapur in Nagaland is the nearest railhead. Imphal is well connected by road network with all the capitals of north eastern states. Guwahati is at a distance of 579 kms from Imphal.

Places of Interest