Imphal city tourist attractions: Imphal is the capital city of Manipur (A State of India). Ruins of the Palace of Kangla, the royal seat of the former Kingdom of Manipur, are in the city metropolitan centre, surrounded by a moat.
Listed below few places to visit in Manipur Imphal.
Shaheed Minar:
This tall Minar is erected in memory of the indomitable spirit of the patriotic Meitei and tribal martyrs who sacrificed their lives while fighting against the British in 1891. It is located at the Bir Tikendrajit Park in the heart of Imphal city.
Kangla:
A visit to the Kangla at the heart of Imphal city unfolds the proud history of the erstwhile Asiatic Kingdom dating back to 33 A.D. The British took over in 1891 and buried their influence in architecture. It is the quintessential symbol of the state’s culture and heritage. The old Govindajee temple, outer and inner moat and other relics are perfect reflections of the rich art and architectural heritage of Manipur. Today, Kangla is developed into a unique archeological and heritage park.
Bihu Loukon
Bihu Loukon is an ancient star shaped fort made up of mud. It is situated in Maklang, Imphal West District.
Ima Market:
The Ima Market counted as one of the largest only women market in Asia is at a stone’s throw distance from the Western Gate of Kangla. It is a unique all women’s market, with over 3000 “Imas” (mothers) running the stalls. Men are not allowed to sell goods at this market. Vegetables, fruits, fishes and household groceries are sold in one section and exquisite handlooms and household tools in the other.
Shree Govindajee Temple:
Shree Govindajee Temple is another historic centre of the Vaishnavites in Manipur. The Govindajee temple is one of the more popular destinations for the tourists. Twin domes, a paved courtyard, and a large raised congregation hall from perfect backdrop for priests who descend the steps, to accept offerings from devotees in the courtyard. Early hour prayer (Aarti) is a must for devoted followers, exuding spiritual fervor and ecstasy. Tourists are welcomed to come and join in the daily festivities at the historic Govindajee temple and other temples in and around Imphal city.
Imphal War Cemetery:
The War Cemeteries in Imphal commemorates the memories of the British and Indian soldiers who died during the World War II. These War Cemeteries are managed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Serene and well-maintained, the War Cemetery carries little stone markers and bronze plaques recording the sacrifices of those gallant soldiers.
Manipur State Museum:
This interesting Museum near the Polo Ground, has a fairly good collection and display of Manipur’s tribal heritage and a collection of portraits of Manipur’s former rulers. Particularly interesting are the costumes, arms & ammunitions, relics and historical documents on display.
Hiyangthang Lairembi Temple Complex
A religious site and a tourist attraction, the temple complex is noted for its annual Durga Puja festival in September or October.
The Red Hill is a historical hillock located 17 km south of Imphal City, on Tiddim Road. The place was the scene of action and the theater of the battle that took place between Allied Forces and Japanese Forces fighting alongside the Indian National Army (INA) in World War II. Red Hill has now become a tourist attraction since the Japanese war veterans constructed a monument at the foot of this hill.
Khonghampat Orchadarium:
Located at a distance of about 10 kilometers away from Imphal on the National Highway No. 2, the Khonghampat Orchadarium is spread over 200 acres and houses over 110 rare varieties of orchids, including dozens of endemic species. The peak blooming season is March-April.
Nupi Lal Memorial Complex:
The complex is a tribute to the courageous Manipuri women who sacrificed their lives fighting for justice against the British on 12th December 1939.
Mutua Museum:
This Museum is a Cultural Complex located at Andro village, about 26 kilometers away from the capital. It houses artifacts of the State and from all over the North-East, such as pottery, rare coins, rare manuscripts of the state, paintings, basketries, bell metals, jewelleries, wood carving, etc. There are exact replicas of the houses of different tribes and ethnic groups of the state such as Poumai, Kabui, Meitei, Kuki and Tangkhul.
Khongjom War Memorial:
Khongjom War Memorial is located at about 36 kilometers from Imphal on the Indo-Myanmar road. It was here that Major General Paona Brajabashi, one of the great warriors of Manipur proved his valor against the superior might of the invading British Army in 1891. The hillock at the foot of which he laid down his life in defence of the motherland, is reminiscent of the past heroic deeds of Manipuri warriors. A war memorial has been constructed atop Kheba hill. Khongjom Day is observed every year on 23rd April here.
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