Imphal is the capital city of the state of Manipur. The entire city is spread across a massive area of 12,285 sq. km. The famous Kangla Palace ruins – the headquarters of the former royal kingdom of Manipur – lies here. It was built by the monarch Khagemba from the Ningthouja tribe. The British destroyed the palace in the Anglo-Manipur war of 1891.
The city is an important World War 2 site. The Japanese invaded India through Imphal with the goal of defeating the British. The Japanese lost the war, and it is recognised as the first time Japan was defeated in Asia.
The home ground of NEROCA FC that is Lampak Main Stadium is in Imphal. Imphal has a very good literacy rate, almost bordering 90%.
Things to do in Imphal
Imphal has plenty of rivers, beautiful landscapes and hills for you to explore. Trekking across the rugged natural landscapes is a popular activity in Imphal. For those who love polo, the world’s oldest polo ground is in this city. You can also visit the Manipur State Museum to explore the rich history of this region. If you want to improve your photography skills, you will find plenty of photography experts in Imphal who can guide you.
Tourist attractions in Imphal
Imphal has plenty of museums, temples and natural beauty. Popular tourist spots in Imphal are the Women’s Market, Three Mother’s Art Gallery, INA Memorial, Shree Govindajee Temple, Matai Garden, and Gurdwara Sri Guru Singh Sabha.
Places to shop in Imphal
Shopping in Imphal will remain incomplete if you don’t visit the Women’s Market. This is the only market in the world where all the shops are completely run by women. The market offers woollen apparel, dry fruits and vegetables. For stone carvings and handlooms, visit Tera Bazaar. Manipur Handloom is the best place for local fabrics and textiles.
Best time to visit Imphal
The weather is sunny and pleasant between the months of October and March, making it the ideal time to visit Imphal.
Modes of transport
Imphal is connected to nearby cities through national and state highways. For intracity travel, auto-rickshaws are the cheapest option. You can also hire local cabs for sightseeing purposes.
Weather in Imphal
The summer season which begins in April and ends in June is very hot. From July onwards, the city receives rain which lasts till September. The skies clear up in October as winter sets in and lasts till the month of April.
Airport in Imphal
Imphal Airport (IATA: IMF) is just 8 km away from the heart of the city. IndiGo operates several flights from Imphal to major cities across India on a daily basis. For ticket availability on your preferred dates, visit IndiGo’s official website.