Discover the charm of Manipur with this 7-day itinerary, designed to take you through the state’s most scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the shimmering waters of Loktak Lake to the historic Kangla Fort, this journey is a perfect blend of nature and tradition. Experience local flavours, explore hidden gems, and immerse yourself in the beauty of northeast India. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or food lover, Manipur offers something unforgettable for every traveller.
The Ultimate 7-Day Manipur Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival In Imphal – The Gateway To Manipur
Things To Do:
- Arrive at Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, your entry point to the scenic and culturally rich state of Manipur.
- Start your first day with a visit to Ima Keithel, the famed all-women-run marketplace. Here, local women run over 4,000 stalls selling everything from handwoven phaneks (traditional sarongs) to dried fish, bamboo crafts, and native herbs.
What To Eat:
- Sit down for a delicious meal at Classic Restaurant, known for authentic Manipuri fare prepared using local ingredients. Sample dishes such as Eromba, a pungent yet addictive dish made from mashed vegetables and fermented fish, and Chamthong, a clear and mild vegetable stew that pairs beautifully with steamed rice.
- Later, enjoy a satisfying dinner at the in-house restaurant at Hotel Imphal, where regional favourites like Nga Thongba (a tangy fish curry cooked with herbs) and Ooti (a slow-cooked stew of pulses and mustard greens) are served with a side of local hospitality.
Where To Stay:
- Classic Hotel offers tasteful rooms, reliable service, and a restaurant serving both local and continental dishes.
- Hotel Imphal provides a comfortable stay with spacious rooms, manicured gardens, and friendly staff ready to help plan your local excursions.
Average Cost:
Approx. ₹2,500 per person (excluding accommodation)
Day 2: Loktak Lake – Mystical Waters And Floating Worlds
Things To Do:
- Take a scenic drive to Moirang, roughly 45 kilometres from Imphal. This historic town is not only the cultural gateway to Loktak Lake but also a key site during the Indian freedom movement, where the INA flag was first hoisted.
- At Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in the northeast, board a small boat for a tranquil ride across the shimmering waters. The lake is famed for its phumdis—floating biomass islands that move with the current. Glide past fishermen’s floating huts and waterbirds resting on lotus blooms.
- Drive to Thanga Island, nestled within Loktak Lake, to visit the Loktak Folklore Museum. This small but fascinating museum displays artefacts, musical instruments, mythological tales, and personal stories from local communities who have lived by the lake for generations.
What To Eat:
- Enjoy a lakeside lunch of grilled freshwater fish, wild fern salad, and sticky rice. Don’t miss local chutneys made with wild chillies and fermented bamboo shoots.
- Savour a comforting serving of Kangsoi, a mildly spiced vegetable broth, and Ngari-based side dishes, made from aged fermented fish.
Where To Stay:
- Stay on in your chosen hotel from Day 1—either Classic Hotel or Hotel Imphal.
Average Cost:
Approx. ₹3,000 per person (excluding accommodation)
Also Read: Tripura 7-Day Itinerary: Where To Go, What To See, Budget And More
Day 3: Sekta Village
Things To Do:
- Drive to Sekta Village, about 16 kilometres from Imphal. Tucked into green hills, this quiet settlement is home to the Sekta Archaeological Living Museum, a unique site that blends active excavation with community preservation.
- View ancient burial sites, pottery shards, ceremonial tools, and other relics that offer a glimpse into the life of Manipur’s early settlers.
What To Eat:
- Try Bamboo Shoot Curry, slow-cooked with either fish or pork, depending on the season.
- Sample fermented broad beans, often served as a side, and spicy local pickles made with wild fruit.
- Cool off with a glass of lemon basil juice or a traditional rice drink flavoured with herbs.
Where To Stay:
- Continue your stay at Classic Hotel or Hotel Imphal, both well-equipped for a comfortable rest after a day of exploration.
Average Cost:
Approx. ₹2,700 per person (excluding accommodation)
Day 4: Keibul Lamjao – In Search Of The Sangai Deer
Things To Do:
- Drive to Keibul Lamjao National Park to begin your wildlife adventure. The park, located on the phumdis of Loktak Lake, is home to the rare Sangai deer, often referred to as the ‘dancing deer’ due to its graceful movements.
- Take a guided tour through the forested area to spot these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise too, with migratory birds and native species.
- Explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna as you walk along the designated trails. If you’re lucky, you’ll encounter wild boars, barking deer, and a range of birdlife, from the spot-billed pelican to the great cormorant.
What To Eat:
- Try chahou (black rice) pudding, a rich, sweet dish made from black rice and served with local jaggery syrup.
- Opt for Ooti (a meat dish made from slow-cooked pork or beef, rich in spices and herbs) served with a side of boiled greens and chilli paste.
Where To Stay:
- Return to Classic Hotel or Hotel Imphal for a relaxed evening after your busy day of wildlife exploration.
Average Cost:
Approx. ₹3,000 per person (excluding accommodation)
Day 5: The Historic Temples Of Imphal
Things To Do:
- Start your exploration at the Shree Shree Govindajee Temple, located near the palace complex in Imphal. The temple, dedicated to Lord Vishnu, is an architectural marvel and one of the most significant religious sites in the region.
- From there, make your way to the Hindu Temple Complex in the heart of the city. The temple complex is not just a religious site but also a cultural hub, with traditional rituals being performed throughout the day. This temple is especially famous for its yearly Rath Yatra (chariot festival), which is a grand celebration in Imphal.
- Later, visit the Moirang Ningthou Temple, dedicated to Lord Thangjing. This temple is situated on the banks of the Chinga River, and it holds deep significance for the locals. The temple is not only a spiritual centre but also a historical landmark, where the Manipur Liberation Movement was started.
- In the afternoon, you can visit the Lairembi Temple in the surrounding hills. This sacred site is dedicated to the local deity Lairembi, revered as the goddess of fertility and prosperity. It offers stunning panoramic views of the valley.
What To Eat:
- For lunch, don’t miss Kangshoi (a delicious Manipuri vegetable stew made with a mix of leafy greens) paired with Eromba, a real taste of Manipuri cuisine.
- In the evening, indulge in a bowl of rice cakes, served with steamed fish and fresh herbs for a light yet flavourful meal. You can also try a bowl of bhaji (fried vegetables) with fried rice for a satisfying, local experience.
- For a sweet finish, enjoy Kheer (sweet rice pudding) or Sekkou (Manipuri sweets), which are made from rice flour and jaggery, often offered as a sweet treat after temple visits.
Where To Stay:
- Return to Hotel Imphal or Classic Hotel for a peaceful night’s rest.
Average Cost:
Approx. ₹2,500 per person (excluding accommodation)
Also Read: Nagaland 7-Day Itinerary: Where To Go, What To See, Budget And More
Day 6: Exploring Imphal’s Serene Hills And Kangla Fort
Things To Do:
- Head towards the Moirang War Memorial. The memorial commemorates the heroes of the Second World War, particularly those involved in the battle of Imphal.
- Afterwards, take a scenic drive to Kangla Fort, one of the most iconic landmarks in Manipur. Historically, it was the seat of the Manipuri kings and was considered the heart of the kingdom. The fort is surrounded by a moat and offers a serene place to explore.
- In the afternoon, visit Imphal’s Nongpok Keithel, a vibrant market area where you can interact with the locals and shop for traditional Manipuri handicrafts. The market offers everything from handwoven textiles and jewellery to fresh produce and aromatic spices.
What To Eat:
- Try local rice cakes served with wild honey or sticky rice paired with fermented fish chutney.
- Sample Ngari (fermented fish) cooked in chilli sauce and served alongside boiled rice.
Where To Stay:
- Head back to Hotel Imphal or Classic Hotel for a peaceful evening.
Average Cost:
Approx. ₹2,800 per person (excluding accommodation)
Day 7: Manipur’s Green Retreat And Cultural Immersion
Things To Do:
- Begin your last day in Manipur with a visit to Khonghampat Orchidarium, a 200-acre botanical garden located just outside Imphal. The orchid garden boasts over 110 species of orchids, along with various other plants native to the region.
- Make your way to Langol Hills for a short hike. Langol offers stunning panoramic views of Imphal city and the surrounding valleys. It’s peaceful, with the added benefit of being less crowded than other tourist spots.
- End your day with a relaxing sunset walk around Loktak Lake. There’s no better way to end your journey than by witnessing the serenity of the lake during golden hour.
What To Eat:
- For breakfast, enjoy Apong (rice beer), a refreshing start to your day. You can accompany this with Chakhao (black rice), often served with chili and garlic chutney.
- During your visit to Khonghampat Orchidarium, pack a snack of wild berries and local handmade rice cakes. These are easy to carry and perfect for a quick bite in nature.
- Try the local delicacy Koireng Ngangbi, a fish curry made from local fish and spices.
Where To Stay:
- Head back to Hotel Classic or Hotel Imphal for one final restful night in Imphal.
Average Cost:
Approx. ₹2,500 per person (excluding accommodation)
From the serene waters of Loktak Lake to the cultural richness of Imphal, you’ve experienced a blend of history, nature, and local cuisine that defines the spirit of Manipur.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva