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Manipur literally means "land of jewels". The State owes its name to a mythological story in the Mahabharata, the great Indian epic. Citizens of this State are called meiteis.
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In a vast country called India, there is a small, hilly provincial state: Manipur. It lies in north-eastern region of India. Though small in size, it is a very important State. It has international borders with Burma.
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| Loktak Lake |
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| Govindjee Mandir in Manipur |
During the last decade, however, the State has been in constant news due to bad reasons ~ violence, human rights abuse both by ethnic extremist groups and the security forces. Imphal is the capital of Manipur. It is located in a picturesque setting ~ seven hills surround it from all sides like great wall of China.
In general, residents are cordial and decent. The State is a powerhouse of art, culture and sports ( save cricket). Famous Manipuri classical dance can be seen at any important national cultural programme all over India.
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| Imphal City ( Arial View ) |
Manipuri ladies are probably the most decently dressed anywhere. Their traditional dress is unique which has no slightest similarity anywhere in entire India. This makes them different, and special. They look so gorgeous and respectable in their traditional dress ( phanek and enafee ).
A cemetery of World War victims, mostly the English men, is located here in Manipur. There is a nice polo ground also. Polo is said to have originated from Manipur.
And there is Loktak lake. Which is one of its kind in the world. Here on this lake many fishing families live on "floating house".
The best time to visit Manipur is during the spring. You will see firsthand many of Manipuri traditional festivals and cultural programs.
An unknown fact here: there is an interesting marketplace in Manipur called "Ima Keithel" fully run by the Manipuri women and men are the buyers / customers there. Probably you will not see such an scene in the entire world. The market is said to be more than 100 years old. Woman power !
Year round temperature is superb. That's why it is lovingly called "Switzerland of India". Visit Manipur for a change. And rich experience.
A cemetery of World War victims, mostly the English men, is located here in Manipur. There is a nice polo ground also. Polo is said to have originated from Manipur.
And there is Loktak lake. Which is one of its kind in the world. Here on this lake many fishing families live on "floating house".
The best time to visit Manipur is during the spring. You will see firsthand many of Manipuri traditional festivals and cultural programs.
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| Ima Keithel ( Mother's market, Manipur ) |
Year round temperature is superb. That's why it is lovingly called "Switzerland of India". Visit Manipur for a change. And rich experience.
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