Imphal
is the capital of tiny north-eastern state of Manipur. Located in India's
extreme east, this tiny valley has preserved nature in its most
unadulterated form. Far away from mainstream Indian landscape, Imphal offers
a nice break from the stressful life in the midst of nature. It is said that
nothing has changed in Imphal in so far as nature is concerned. Green-blue
hills, lush fields, low clouds, tall pine and jackfruit trees give a
magnificent colour to Imphal's landscape. Many varieties of orchids are also
found in Imphal.
Best Season to Visit : October-March
Sightseeing at Imphal -
Manipur Zoological Gardens : On the outskirts of Imphal, the
zoological garden is home to rare bird, animal and reptile species. The zoo
also keeps one of the rarest species of deer. The zoo has been set up in a
picturesque location..
Khonghampat Orchidarium : The orchid sanctuary has more than a
hundred rare varieties of orchids. The orchids are in full bloom in the
months of April-May.
Shri
Govindajee Temple : This temple is an important religious place for
Vaishnavites. It is a simple, twin-domed structure adjoining the palace of
the former rulers of Manipur. During festivals, devotees in thousands throng
the temple. Lord Vishnu is the presiding deity of the temple. The temple
also has a paved court and a large congregation hall. The ambience is very
serene and spiritual.
Other attractions of Imphal include the Manipur State Museum, Old Palace
and Shahid Minar.
Reaching Imphal -
Air : State carrier Indian Airlines operates daily flights to Imphal
from Delhi via Guwahati.
Rail : Dimapur in Nagaland at a distance of 215 kms from Imphal is
the nearest railhead.
Road : National Highway 39 connects Imphal with Dimapur while
National Highway 53 connects Imphal with Silchar in Assam.
STD/ISD Codes -
if dialing from India to Imphal: 0751(number)
if dialing from outside India to Imphal:+91751(number)
Shopping in Imphal -
Like all the states of north-east, Manipuri crafts and handlooms are very
attractive. It is worth mentionable that the Khwairamband Bazaar of Imphal
is probably the only place in India run exclusively by women. Tribal women
in colourful, traditional attire sell everything from hand-woven shawls to
skirts, vessels, mugs, mats, fish and oranges.
Imphal Attractions
