Imphal is a captivating city surrounded by hills and valleys. It always has something to see and do making it a perfect destination to visit in Manipur. The local attractions will take your breath away. The historic landmarks perfectly blend with nature making them perfect photogenic spots. The historically rich heritage seen at Kangla Fort, Khonghampat Orchidarium, and quaint street markets are just a few pitstops. As a matter of fact, in this post, I will be guiding you to the many wondrous places in Imphal so that you will have your to-do-list ready even before you book tickets. So, here are a few heart-moving sites you can visit in Imphal, Manipur. 

(1) Ema Keithel: Shop at the women-only market in the whole of India

This specific market has made quite a few headlines in the past mostly because of its women-centric concept. Here, no men are allowed to open a shop; however, they can shop here. Ema Keithel has another name locally known as Khwairamband Bazar. Here, you can shop for local handwoven items, fancy jewellery, modern clothing, traditional shawls, decorative flowers, and baskets made from bamboo strands.

Visiting Time: All day between 4:15 am to 6:00 pm

Ema Keithel- a women-centric market

(2) Manipur State Museum: Learn about the rich heritage of Manipur

The museums make a great place to start if you are new to a place you know very little about. Here at the Manipur State Museum, you can delve into the culture, lifestyle, and history of Manipur. This sole attraction offers you guided tours, raising awareness of the state’s culture and tradition. The museum also provides programs related to nature conservation. The main feature of the museum is the 54 feet long boat called Hiyag Hiren. 

Visiting Time - Tuesday to Sunday between 10 am to 4:30 pm

Entry Fees - INR 10 for adults and INR 5 for children. INR 50 for foreign tourists

Poubi Lai made of wood is an ancient Manipuri mythical creature in the form of a dragon, once believed to have existed in the Loktak Lake 

(3) Khonghampat Orchidarium: Rendezvous with a variety of scented orchids 

Khonghampat Orchidarium is an exquisite place surrounded by a beautiful flower garden. This park is looked after by the state forest department, and it holds bundles of orchids and a variety of flowers. Khonghampat Orchidarium houses more than a hundred variety of orchids across 200 acres of land. Some of the most beautiful orchids you can see in full bloom are Vanda, Dendrobium, Cymbidium, and Cattleya. This romantic destination in Imphal receives tons of visitors year-round but make sure to plan your visit during the spring season. 

Visiting Time - Monday to Sunday between 9:30 am and 5:00 pm

Entry Fees - Free

Khonghampat Orchidarium: Rendezvous with a variety of scented orchids 

Chorus Repertory Theatre: Watch a remarkable theatre performance 

(5) Kangla Fort: Visit the famous archaeological site of Manipur

This significant site called Kangla Palace or Fort is a treasure that dates back to the 1st century. Kangla Fort served as an ancient capital of Kangleipak or Manipur. It went through several renovations from 1597 to 1891 by many successors before it was seized by the British Army. The main palace complex of Kangla Fort comprises the burial ground for the royal members. You can wander amid many other places like Nungjeng Pukhri, which is a sacred pond, ruins of a citadel dating back to 1611, etc.

Visiting Time - Monday to Sunday between 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Wednesday closed.

Entry Fees - INR 10 for adults

Kangla Fort: Visit the famous archaeological site of Manipur

So what do you have to say about Imphal? Are you intrigued by its effortless beauty, history, and art? It is basically one of the most treasured places to visit in the whole of Manipur. Trust me, you won't be disappointed.

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