Manipur
মণিপুর
The Jewel of India, birthplace of classical Manipuri dance and polo, blessed with pristine valleys, ancient traditions, and the sacred Loktak Lake. Land of martial arts and cultural heritage.
About Manipur
Manipur, known as the "Jewel of India," is a state of extraordinary natural beauty and rich cultural heritage in Northeast India. The state is renowned as the birthplace of classical Manipuri dance, one of India's eight classical dance forms, and the modern game of polo, which originated here as 'Sagol Kangjei.'
Home to the unique floating islands of Loktak Lake and the endangered Sangai deer, Manipur showcases incredible biodiversity. The state's martial arts tradition, particularly Thang-Ta, and its vibrant handloom industry producing exquisite textiles make it a cultural treasure of India's Northeast.
Major Cities
Imphal
State capital, cultural center, Kangla Fort, and gateway to Northeast India.
Thoubal
Agricultural hub, Loktak Lake vicinity, and traditional crafts center.
Bishnupur
Loktak Lake, Keibul Lamjao National Park, and Sangai deer habitat.
Tourist Attractions
Loktak Lake
Largest freshwater lake in Northeast India with floating islands (phumdis).
BishnupurKeibul Lamjao National Park
World's only floating national park, home to endangered Sangai deer.
BishnupurKangla Fort
Ancient seat of Manipur rulers, archaeological site with temples and museums.
Imphal WestIma Keithel
World's largest all-women market run exclusively by women vendors.
Imphal WestShree Govindajee Temple
Major Vaishnavite temple, center of Manipuri classical dance performances.
Imphal WestDzukou Valley
Valley of flowers on Manipur-Nagaland border, trekking paradise.
SenapatiCulture & Traditions
Classical Arts
Manipuri dance, Thang-Ta martial art, Pung cholom (drum dance), and Raas Leela performances.
Festivals
Yaoshang (Holi), Lai Haraoba, Kang (Ratha Yatra), and Ningol Chakouba celebrations.
Sports Heritage
Birthplace of modern polo (Sagol Kangjei), traditional wrestling, and martial arts.
Manipuri Cuisine
Spicy mashed vegetable curry with fermented fish
Fresh salad with herbs, vegetables and fermented fish
Clear vegetable soup with seasonal greens
Fermented fish, essential ingredient in Manipuri cuisine
Black rice pudding, traditional dessert
Economic Profile
State GDP
Growing economy in Northeast
Literacy Rate
Above national average
Forest Cover
Rich biodiversity
Key Industries
- Handloom & Handicrafts
- Tourism & Hospitality
- Agriculture & Horticulture
- Small Scale Industries
Agricultural Products
- Rice (including Black Rice)
- Pineapple, Orange, Lemon
- Ginger, Turmeric, Chilli
- Bamboo, Sugarcane
Notable Personalities
Mary Kom
Born 1983
Olympic bronze medalist boxer
Irom Sharmila
Born 1972
Civil rights activist, Iron Lady
Mirabai Chanu
Born 1994
Olympic silver medalist weightlifter
Hijam Irabot
1896-1951
Freedom fighter and social reformer