1. Khuga Dam

Khuga dam is a recently built dam located near the town of Churachandpur. It is located to the south of this town. The construction had started in 1983 but the work was ignored for many years until 2002, when it was resumed. Finally, in 2010, Sonia Gandhi inaugurated the dam. However, it has not yet worked to its full capacity. This dam is 38 meters high and stretches over 230 meters. People visit this dam to enjoy and absorb the nature’s wonders. It is not just a popular tourist spot, but also a famous picnic spot for the locals.

2. Ngaloi

Ngaloi is a small village located at a distance of 9 km from Churachandpur. Its original name is Ngaloimoul. This surreal village was founded in 195 by Jangkhohen Haokip. Telsing family of the Haokip clan has been residing here since the 16^th century. It is a popular tourist attraction because of the Ngaloi Waterfall. The low lying mountains and the greenery provide the perfect background for the magnificent cascading waterfall. The white foamy water gushing down the dark rocks is accompanied with the cool breeze of the mountains.

3. Tipaimukh

It is located just a few kms away from Churachandpur. Tipaimukh is a popular spot for the nature lovers. It is where the two rivers, Tuivai and Barak meet. The name Tipaimukh comes from two words – Tipai which means river and mukh meaning mouth. This beautiful scene of the confluence of rivers is complimented with the green low lying hills. Boating is an option here. Some people even prefer taking long walks along the bank of the river, absorbing the scenic beauty.

4. Tribal Museum

Tribal museum is a place for people who are interested in the history of this town. It gives them a detailed knowledge of the early human settlements and the tribal lifestyle of the people of this region. Though it is not a very huge museum, it has a decent collection of antiques that once belonged to the traditional tribal people. These include the tribal costumes, religious accessories, cane and bamboo crafts and many other cultural artifacts. The museum also has a wide variety of old ornaments and weapons.

5. Tonglon Caves

The state of Manipur is known for its natural attractions as well as the caves. As might be known to many people, it has an array of historic caves that not only serve as tourist attractions but also as an important link for the archaeologists to trace back the history of the region. Tonglon caves are the most famous caves of Churachandpur. They are regarded as one of the best cultural and historical highlights of the town. The carvings and sculptures present at these caves give one a good insight of the early settlements. The scripts and engravings found here helped many historians to understand about the past of Manipur.

The best time to visit Churachandpur is between the months of October and March. This town is also an important commercial hub of the state. Weaving and animal husbandry is quite common here. One must visit Churachandpur at least once in their entire lifetime and we are sure you would not regret it.

More Tourist Hotspots In Manipur:

• Best Places To Visit In Ukhrul
• Best Places To Visit In Thoubal
• Best Places To Visit In Chandel

1. Zeilad Lake

Located in Makoi, near Tamenglong, Zeiland lake is the most famous lake of this place. It is situated on a hill and is known for its photogenic beauty. This lake has abundant scope for adventure. Aquatic animals like pythons, fishes, tortoises and water birds are found here. They animals attract a large number of people. Many migratory birds are seen here throughout the year. Zeilad lake has also recently been declared as one of the four wildlife sanctuaries of Manipur. Nrou Zei, Guiphop Zei and Nap-sam Zei are some other lakes found in this area.

2. Tharon cave

Located 27 km from Tamenglong, Tharon caves are 655.6 meters long. These caves are also known as the Thaeuluan cave. It has five exits and thirty-four joints. On conducting detailed studies, evidences of the Hobinian culture of North Vietnam have been found. The proofs also suggest that this culture has been there for ages. Map of the entire 655.6 meters has been drawn and can be seen at the entrance for easy navigation. It makes it simple for the keen and interested people to locate every detail without missing out on anything. This map is painted and carved on a stone. Visiting these caves will prove to be an experience of a lifetime.

3. Buning Meadow

These meadows are also known as the “N-piulong Valley”. It is a major tourist attraction of Tamenglong. It is a stretch of uneven mounts. Buning meadow looks heavenly with the many orchids that grow here. The peak of its beauty can be seen during the summers, especially during the month of June. Wild lilies can be seen here too. Buning Meadow is home to Hoolock, gibbons, foxes and some more animals. The beautiful blend of flora and fauna found here can hardly be seen anywhere else. It is places like this that make Tamenglong a major tourist attraction. The entire Meadow blooms up during the springs. Orchids, wild lilies and many more colorful flowers add to the spectacular view.

4. River Barak

It is the most famous destination of Tamenglong, provided the seven waterfalls in its vicinity. Barak river is the major source of water and irrigation for the entire town. One can easily spend an entire day picnicking near this lake amidst the beauty of the waterfalls. Since, Tamenglong is not a very popular tourist destination yet, this river is not very polluted. It is an enchanting experience to sit by the river, allowing the cool breeze to flow through your hair and the smell of wet soil, mud and trees fill your nostrils. The seven waterfalls come rushing down the hill side, creating a scene one can never forget. Water sports and river rafting are pretty popular here. Out of all the seven falls, Khoudong is said to be the most beautiful one.

5. Forests nearby

Tomenglong has a number of forests that include rare species of plants and animals. Birds like pheasants, peafowl and jungle fowls are seen here. The wildlife includes Sambar, deer, hog deer, fox, hyena, wild pig, wild dog, slow loris and serow. Sometimes, leopards, tigers, and elephants are also spotted. The list does not end here. It has reptiles crawling through the forests. These reptiles include Cobras, Vipers, Pythons and Kraits.

The best time to visit Tamenglong is between the months of October and April. However, if you are a nature lover, you might want to visit this place for the Meadow during the month of June. Tamenglong is a must visit place for all the nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Some Other Places To Visit In Manipur:

• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Bishnupur
• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Senapati
• Do-Not-Miss Destinations In Churachanpur

1. Moreh

Moreh is about 70 kms away from Chandel. This is a very important place as it lies on the border of two countries – India and Myanmar. Myanmar can be seen from the border area and therefore, it attracts a large number of tourists. Moreh is a place for both nature lovers and business lovers. Being on the border, Moreh helps in trading with different countries. It is the commercial hub of Manipur. These kinds of trades are supported and encouraged a lot by the government and they want more and more foreign countries as well as Indians to set up business here. If the visitors have a visa, they can even cross the border and go to Myanmar to visit Tamu (only 5 kms from the border). Like Moreh is the commercial hub of Chandel, Tamu is for Myanmar. There is a big shopping plaza in Moreh where Chinese and Thai goods are sold. This plaza is compared to the National Stadium Shopping Arcade of Bangkok. However, the prices here are a lot less than those in Bangkok.

2. Yangoupokpi – Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary

Founded in 1989, the Yangoupokpi- Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary covers an area of 185 sq. km approximately. This sanctuary is the home to 42 species of mammalians, 74 types of birds, 6 species of amphibians, 29 kinds of reptiles and 86 species of fish. Hoolock Gibbon (the only variety of ape seen in India), stumped tailed macaque, Himalayan black bear, slow lories, wild bear, India civet cat. Pig tailed macaque and golden cat are some of the wildlife species found here.

3. Tengnoupal

Tengnoupal is situated at a height that ranges between 2,500 ft. to 10,000 ft. This place was under a number of ruling parties, starting from the Pakhangha Ruler, followed by the Chinese who reigned over it from 1631 until the Japanese attacked it during the Second World War. Two rivers named, Barak and Manipur flow in this region from north to south. This place is adorned with many lakes as well. Tengnoupal is usually visited to enjoy the peaceful environment in the middle of all the natural beauty. As Tengnoupal is at a height, one can get a view of the entire state of Manipur. Though it is a remote area, it is a popular tourist destination. It offers a wide range of accommodations, forest bungalows being the best of the lot.

The best time to visit Chandel is during the months of February or December. Because of the many tribes that live here, it has a diversity of communities and each community has something different to offer. Chandel is on the list “must visit” places of many people.

Other Major Tourist Destinations In Manipur:

• Top Tourist Destinations In Imphal
• Top Tourist Destinations In Thoubal
• Top Tourist Destinations In Temenglong

1. Mao

Mao is the gateway to Manipur. It is located about 45 kms from the town of Senapati. Called the ‘Mao Gate’, it opens the Senapati district as well as the state for the rest of the country. This is also the busiest commercial town of the state as most of the trading routes to Manipur are through here. This town has different types of tribes that come from all across Manipur and its neighboring states. Due to this diversity of communities, this town will give you a variety of things to see. Mao also has good scope for shopping for goods from different South East Asian counties as well as Myanmar.

2. Yangkhullen

It is a small village located 26 kms away from Senapati. It is regarded as a historic place. One can still see the traditional social and economic life of people here. These traditions prevail even after centuries. The tools and knowledge of making artifacts has been passed down from generations. The entire village is like a large family and work is shared accordingly. Yangkhullen is situated in the middle of a steep cliff with a beautiful landscape. The natural beauty of this village will make you fall in love with it.

3. Liyai

Located 37 kms away from the town of Senapati, Liyai Khullen is a beautiful village. The name “Liyai Khullen” means “People of the Sea”. According to archeological evidences, this village exists for over 500 years now. It is one of the best tourist destinations in Senapati. A number of stone monoliths speak of the glorious past of this village. Another major attraction here is the origin of the mighty Brahmaputra River. River Barak is the second biggest river that flows from here.

4. Makhel

Makhel is a devotional place for many communities of Senapati. It is a home to a number of historic monuments and is just a short drive away from Senapati. It is the most visited place of the district. Banyan trees here are considered sacred because according to the legends, they have grown from the tomb of Naga mother. Farewell monolith and trio monolith are two more intriguing monuments of this place. Apart from the monuments, you would get to see the dispersal trees at Sajouba, the hailstorm stone and the lucky stone. All the historic tales from here ought to keep you busy and interested.

5. Purul

Though located at some distance from Senapati, Purul is a major tourist attraction of the district. It will give you a glimpse of the rich and vibrant traditions of Manipur. It also has a number of mind blowing beautiful places that would be imprinted on your mind forever. It is the same place where wrestling and toutou are played in abundance. It attracts a great audience from throughout the country. Toutou is played during the New Years while wrestling in May. Apart from these, you can also see the women using traditional methods and weaving as well as extracting fiber for weaving.

The best months to visit are between October and March. It is well connected via flights, rails as well as road. Senapati is an ideal destination for people looking for a pleasant atmosphere.

Some More Tourist Destinations Of Manipur:

• Must Visit Places In Ukhrul
• Must Visit Places In Imphal
• Must Visit Places In Chandel

1. Yairipok

Yairipok is said to be one of the major villages of Thoubal. Earlier, it was home to the Meitei Brahmins and later it was inhabited by the Manipur Muslims. The structures built between 1579 and 1652 are quite famous. There is a monolith edifice that is carved into a tortoise, Kurma, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu. According to some beliefs, wild elephants come here from time to time to worship their God.

2. Kakching

Kakching is the main agricultural town of the city. It is well known as the trading center for fishes, vegetables, and rice. There are a number of temples located nearby, namely, Shri Krishnachandra Mandir (temple), Narasingha Mandir and Viswanath Mandir. Around 100 acres of the land is occupied by the Kakching Airfield. During the Second World War, it was well known as Pallet Airfield.

3. Khongjom

Khongjom has a great historic significance. It is believed to be the last place where the local people fought against their British masters for their independence. A memorial was built after the war, called the War Memorial Hall. People still gather there every year on the 23^rd of April. This day is called the Khongjom Day.

4. Loktak Lake

Loktak lake is one of the biggest freshwater lakes of the entire district of Thoubal. It has a great amount of floating biomass and is also covered with a mixture of organic matter, vegetation and soil. This mixture is known as the “phumdis”.  This Lake is also close to the Keibul Lamjao National Park (KLNP). Endangered species of deer, the Sangai (Cervus eldi eldi), reside in this park.

5. People’s Museum

People’s museum is located in the Kakching Town. It is regarded as one of the major attractions of this town. Things like basketry, pottery, wooden seat with beautiful designs are seen here. A number of musical instruments can also be seen. Apart from these, fossils and the war and hunting instruments are also displayed here. Traditional costumes of kings and tribal chiefs are major attractions of the museum.

Thoubal can be reached through flights, trains as well as road journey. It is pretty famous for its ‘bazars’ (usually meaning street markets). It is a great holiday destination for people who are looking for a mild climate and many activities. To sum it up, one can say that Thoubal is a perfect place for a family vacation.

Here Are Some More Tourist Spots Of Manipur:

• Popular Places In Bishnupur
• Popular Places In Senapati
• Popular Places In Churachanpur

1. Khayang Peak

Khayang peak is known as the highest peak of the Ukhrul district; its altitude being 3114 meters above sea level. The peak gives a beautiful view of the entire region. One can see the fellow hills, the beautifully raging streams and the low laying valleys from up there. Apart from enjoying its scenic beauty, people also go trekking on these hills. The satisfaction of seeing the sun rise from the peak is not something that can be expressed in words. People who are not much into trekking can easily hire private transport and go for a long drive to the top of the hill to breathe in the aura of nature.

2. Shirui Kashong Peak

Shirui Kashong peak is one of the finest peaks to visit in Ukhrul. It is a little more popular than the Khayang peak because it is more easily accessible. The altitude of this hill rises upto 2835 meters above sea level. Apart from the beauty of its altitude, the peak seems to be painted with colourful flowers. These flowers bloom on the hilltop in the months of May-June. The major attraction being the blooming of the rare Lilium mackliniae. This place is not just famous for its colourful beauty, but also the plants and herbs found here. Many of these have medicinal values and therefore, it attracts a number of scholars each year for research purpose.

3. Kachouphung Lake

The most interesting feature about Kachouphung lake is that its shape resembles the shape of the map of India. This striking lake is located on the slope of the hill. There are a number of fishes found in this lake and it provides people with a great opportunity for pisciculture. The size of the river varies a lot between the summers and the monsoons. It becomes way bigger during the rainy season.  The most interesting thing is the fact that water can be brought in from the nearby Nily river and added to the lake to increase its size.

4. Khangkhui Cave

The Khangkhui cave is a remarkable natural limestone cave. The cave consists of two large chambers, five tunnels and one large hall. There are many legends behind this cave. Many believe that the cave was once inhabited by a Devil king who had two wives. The two chambers belonged to his two wives while he rested in the royal bedroom located in the northern end of the hall. According to the legend, the hall is where the king used to hold all his meetings and important discussions. This cave also has a very relevant connection to the history. The villagers took shelter in these caves in World War II.

 5. Nillai Tea Estate

Another marvellous place to visit in Ukhrul is the Nillai tea estate. This is a place where green tea is grown. The tea grown here is hand-plucked and sun-dried. It enriches the medicinal qualities of the leaves. The special feature of these leaves is that the right flavour comes only when they are boiled the second time! Apart from the unique features, the greenery seen here is definitely a treat to one’s eyes. Seeing so much of lushness will surely make your heart feel good and the neat rows of tea plants will make you never want to leave the place.

Visiting Ukhrul once will make you want to visit it over and over again. The beauty, the nature, and the facts as well as the history have the power to make you want to see more and know more. Ukhrul will definitely capture a special place in the hearts of every nature or adventure lover.

Other Interesting Places In Manipur:

• Top Tourist Places In Imphal
• Top Tourist Places In Bishnupur
• Top Tourist Places In Temenglong

1. Loktak Lake

Loktak Lake, the lifeline of Manipur, is considered the largest fresh water lake in the whole of Northeast India. It also owns the pride of being the only floating lake the world over as it has floating phumdis on it. Phumdis meaning, a series of floating islands, is seen only in Loktak Lake. The lake is the major source of drinking water, electricity and irrigation. You can find a wide range of endangered wildlife and plants in the lake.

2. Kangla Fort

Kangla is the most historically significant place in Manipur. The seat of power, Kangla Fort was once the representation of the land’s culture. As the ancient capital of Manipur, Kangla Fort was much revered. The kingdom was so mighty that it remained undefeatable for centuries starting from 33 AD to 19th century before it succumbed to the powers of the British. The fort comprises royal palaces, temples and burial grounds of the members of royal families. The historical monuments and archaeological remains of the place speak volumes of the rich past.

3. Sekta Archaeological Living Museum

Sekta Archaeological Living Museum is a leading attraction in Imphal. The museum was constructed on a site that was earlier excavated to unearth the treasures of the past that symbolize the rich history of the land. The museum is home to unique antiques that speak of the tribes of 14th century and their culture. The rare collections seen here include ornaments, human skulls, masks made of silver and copper and other unique articles that are rarely found elsewhere.

4. Sirohi National Park

Covering a mere 41 square kilometer, India’s smallest forest reserve, Sirohi National Park earned the status of National Park in 1982. Being a hilly terrain and with many valleys, the views of the park are breathtaking. The park is home to a wide range of wildlife including tiger, leopard and wild boar. It has a stunning range of flowers too among them Sirohi Lily is unique as it grows only here.

5. Manipur State Museum

Manipur State Museum is not just a museum that displays its collections but promotes awareness of the culture and the importance of biological specimen through various programs. The museum was inaugurated in 1969 by Mrs. Indira Gandhi, the late Prime Minister of India. While the collections in its gallery sections namely Natural History, Archaeology, Painting and Children’s Gallery are amazing, its contributions to create awareness and interest in minds of people on the need to conserve wildlife and respect the rich culture of the land demand overwhelming appreciation. The programs conducted by the museum are many and hence it deserves a special place for its contribution.

Imphal is an interesting place to visit. Its beauty and history are so captivating that you will find the land irresistible. I have come to the conclusion that one visit is not enough. Not sure when I am going to be there next but your contributions on other attractions here may speed up my second visit.

More Tourist Destinations In Manipur:

• Top Attractions In Bishnupur
• Top Attractions In Thoubal
• Top Attractions In Senapati

1. Imphal

Imphal, the capital of Manipur, is a scenic city. It is located at the center of the beautiful Manipur valley and is surrounded by plains and hills. Dense forests and sprawling grasslands make the place a heaven on earth. It reflects the rich tradition of the state. Here are the leading tourist destinations in Imphal.

• Loktak Lake
• Red Hill Lokpaching
• Kangla Fort
• Sirohi National Park
• Manipur State Museum
• Sekta Archaelogical Living Museum
• Manipur Zoological Gardens
• Keibul Lam Jao National Park
• Jama Masjid
• Shree Govindajee Temple
• Khonghampat Orchidarium
• Matai Garden

2. Ukhrul

Ukhrul, a picturesque city is a visual delight. The beauty of nature offers more than just visual delight. It elevates your spirit to a higher plane. You will be mesmerized by the beautiful valleys, hills, waterfalls and streams. In short, Ukhrul is a dream destination if you are a nature lover. Given below are some top destinations in Ukhrul

• Khayang Peak
• Shirui Kashung Peak
• Kachouphung Lake
• Khangkhui Cave
• Shirui Kashung
• Hundung Mangva Cave
• Nillai Tea Estate
• Ango Ching

3. Bishnupur

Considered a holy land thanks to the many temples located here, Bishnupur, is one of the most frequented cities in Manipur for both its natural beauty and places of worship. The ancient temples here reflect the rich culture of the land and its architectural excellence. Given below are the leading tourist attractions in Bishnupur.

• Rasmancha
• Jorebangla Temple
• Pancha Ratana Temple
• Dal Madol
• Susunia Pahar
• Shyamrai Temple
• Siddheswar Temple
• Radha Shyam Temple
• Sridhara Temple

4. Thoubal

Thoubal is yet another picturesque destination in Manipur. Situated amidst hills, the place is perfect for trekking and hiking. Lush greenery, beautiful rivers and lakes make the place a perfect destination for outdoor activities. The local people here enhance the greenery here by planting banyan trees along roadsides and fruit bearing trees in the grounds of their homes. Here are some top destinations in Thoubal

• Thoubal River
• Imphal River
• Ikop Lake
• Waithou Lake
• People’s Museum
• Lousi Lake
• Thoubal Bazar
• Khongjom War Memorial

5. Chandel

Chandel is the gateway to Myanmar. The geographical significance, however, does not end there. The land is rich in flora and fauna being home to a wide range of species. Rare species of animals and plants are found here that attract tourists in great numbers. Here are some of the tourist destinations in Chandel.

• Moreh
• Yangoupokpi-Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary
• Tengnoupal

6. Senapati

Senapati is one of the places in Manipur that preserves its natural beauty with some of its parts still unexplored. It seems the land is specially favored by nature. Hills, streams, gorges and rivers, you just name it, the land has it. With 80% of the land covered by dense forests, you can naturally expect it to possess a wide range of plants and animals. Given below are some top destinations in Senapati.

• Mao
• Yangkhullen
• Dzuko Valley
• Liyai
• Purul
• Maram Khullen
• Makhel Cave
• Sadu Chiru Waterfalls

7. Tamenglong

Very much like Chandel, Tamenglong, popularly referred to as the ‘Land of Hornbill’ is rich in flora and fauna. Unexplored forests, rare species of plants, animals and birds, the land is sure to captivate your soul. With lakes, rivers and waterfalls, Tamenglong makes a perfect dream spot. Here are the leading destinations you should not miss on your tour to Tamenglong.

• Zeilad Lake
• Zeilad Wildlife Sanctuary
• Barak Waterfalls
• Kisha Khou
• Tharon Cave
• Buning Meadow

8. Churachandpur

Churachandpur fits the bill perfectly as a district in Manipur. Like every part of Manipur, Churachandpur abounds in natural beauty. Located amidst hillocks and valleys, the place is a scenic delight. It is also the second largest town in the state. The land boasts of unity in rich cultural diversity. Boat riding facilities are available at Tipaimukh. Here are the important tourist spots in Churachandpur.

• Ngaloi Falls
• Tuibuong Tribal Museum
• Tonglon Cave
• Khuga Dam
• Tipaimukh

Manipur makes you want to come back. For the majority lot who are ‘nature-deprived’ in their homeland, Manipur is naturally a dream destination. Even if you are from a land that is ‘nature rich’, you will still find Manipur has more to offer. I would be glad to have more information on the state to make my next visit more complete.