Imphal Travel Guide

Imphal – A Complete Travel Guide to the Capital of Manipur

Imphal, the vibrant capital of Manipur in North East India, is a city where nature, history, and culture become one in a tale of wonder. Situated within a green valley, Imphal offers travelers a mix of old forts, eccentric markets, and stunning vistas. In 2025, Imphal is a gem of a different kind, best suited for tourists seeking authenticity and beauty. This travel guide has everything about Imphal—where it is located, top places, eating out, etc.

Where is Imphal Located?

Imphal is in the center of Manipur, placed between hills in the green-colored Imphal Valley. At an elevation of about 786 meters (2,579 feet) above sea level, Imphal is a beautiful climate all year round. It is situated in Northeast India, with Assam to the west and Myanmar to the east. Imphal is both the political and cultural hub of Manipur, with its tranquil location being the gateway to the grandeur of the place, such as Loktak Lake, just 48 km away.

How to Reach Imphal?

Imphal is properly linked with several alternatives:

• By Air: Tulihal Airport (Bir Tikendrajit International Airport), 8 km away from Imphal, has flights to Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati (cost of flight ₹3,000-6,000). Taxi cost to the city is ₹300-500.
• By Train: Dimapur (215 km) or Jiribam (225 km) are nearest railway stations. Buses (₹300-500) or taxis (₹2,000-3,000) from these places take 5-7 hours to reach Imphal.
• By Road: NH37 links Imphal with Guwahati (480 km, ₹800-1,200 bus) and Silchar (250 km, ₹500-800). Roads in 2025 are better, with shared vans (₹50-100) from towns nearby.
  It’s easy as pie to travel to Imphal!

What is Imphal Famous For?

Imphal is famous for its heritage, unique culture, and nature. It was once the capital city of the Manipur kingdom, with Kangla Fort among sites testifying to its royal past. Imphal’s Ima Keithel, the world’s all-women market, is a testament to Manipuri life. The city’s natural splendor, thanks to its close proximity to Loktak Lake and Keibul Lamjao National Park, is an added advantage. Imphal also recalls its WWII history in the shape of war cemeteries and the INA Memorial. Imphal blends heritage and peace in 2025 and should be avoided. Top Places to Visit in Imphal
Imphal has numerous places to visit. This is a list with the pick of the bunch:

Top Places to Visit in Imphal

Attraction	Highlights
Kangla Fort	Ancient capital of Manipur, historical ruins & museum
Ima Keithel	Women-only market with textiles, spices, jewelry
Loktak Lake	Boating, floating phumdis, sunset views
Keibul Lamjao NP	Home to Sangai deer, floating ecosystem
INA Memorial, Moirang	Tribute to Indian National Army
War Cemeteries	Graves of WWII soldiers, Commonwealth-maintained
Shree Govindajee Temple	Traditional Vaishnavite temple architecture
Manipur State Museum	Ethnic crafts, traditional dress, tribal heritage

All of these attractions turn Imphal into an experience treasure house.

Top Tourist Attractions in Imphal

Imphal tourist spots are for all tastes:

1. Kangla Fort: Old palace of Manipur kings, the fort (₹20 ticket) houses ruins, a museum, and brave stories.
2. Ima Keithel: Women-run market selling Manipuri shawls (₹200-500) and spices—free entrance.
3. Loktak Lake: 48 km from Imphal, it’s India’s floating lake with boat tours (₹100-300) and phumdis.
4. Keibul Lamjao National Park: Close to Loktak Lake, see the Sangai deer in the world’s only floating park (₹50 entry).
5. INA Memorial, Moirang: Honors Netaji’s army (₹20 entry), 40 km from Imphal.
6. War Cemeteries: Peaceful places with WWII graves, open to visit, showing Imphal’s wartime significance.
7. Shree Govindajee Temple: Gold-domed Vaishnavite temple, free entry, radiates peace.
8. Manipur State Museum: Soak up tribal artifacts and history (₹20 entrance fee).

Imphal’s diversity captivates every traveler.

What to Eat in Imphal – Local Food Guide

Imphal cuisine is a taste fest of Manipuri delights:

• Eromba: Spicy mixture of boiled vegetables, fish, and chilies (₹50-100).
• Chak-hao Kheer: Black rice pudding, sweet and unique (₹30-70).
• Singju: Flavourful lotus stem and herb salad (₹40-80).
• Fish Curry: Freshly caught from Loktak Lake, served with rice (₹100-150).
• Street Snacks: Enjoy momos and bamboo shoot fries at Imphal street stalls (₹20-50).
  Get local flavors at Thau Ground or local restaurants around Ima Keithel. Imphal food is every foodie’s dream!

Where to Stay in Imphal?

Imphal offers cozy stays:

• Hotels: Traditional Regency or Hotel Imphal (₹1,500-3,000/night) offer comfort in the city.
• Guesthouses: Budget-friendly like Sangai Lodge (₹800-1,500/night) offer a local experience.
• Homestays: Near Loktak Lake or Moirang (₹1,000-2,000/night) for a rural experience, 40-48 km away.
  Book early in 2025—Imphal’s popularity is growing!

Things to Do in Imphal

Imphal keeps you engaged with interesting things to do:
1. Kangla Fort visit: Walk through history and take photos.

2.Shopping at Ima Keithel: Buy locally produced shawls and haggle with the sellers.

3.Day trip to Loktak Lake: Go for a boat ride on the lake and visit Keibul Lamjao National Park.

4.Temple visiting: Pray or marvel at Shree Govindajee’s architecture.

5.Try Local Food: Look for eromba or singju at street food stalls.

6.WWII History Tour: Go to the War Cemeteries and INA Memorial.
Imphal is an amalgamation of adventure and culture.

Quick Travel Tips for Imphal

Organize a hassle-free journey to Imphal with these tips:

• Best Time: November to March (15-25°C) for pleasant weather.
• Travel Smart: Light clothing, light jacket, and comfortable shoes.
• Cash Upfront: Carry ₹1,000-2,000—ATMs could be few.
• Stay Networked: Local SIMs work well; public Wi-Fi in areas outside hotels is not reliable.
• Be Culturally Sensitive: Dress modestly, especially at temples and bazaars.
  Imphal in 2025 is within your reach and inviting with these tips.

Final Thoughts

Imphal is greater than the capital of Manipur—it’s a living testament to beauty and resilience.
From the ancient walls of Kangla Fort to the vibrant marketplace stalls of Ima Keithel, Imphal offers an unforgettable blend of yesteryears and now. Natural beauty is matched by Loktak Lake and Keibul Lamjao National Park, and by the soul-balm Manipuri cuisine. Budget-friendly (a 2-3 day trip will cost ₹3,000-6,000), Imphal in 2025 is the center of Northeast India waiting to be explored. Book those flights and let the magic of Imphal sweep you off your feet!