Imphal

About Imphal

Imphal is the capital of Manipur, nestled in a valley surrounded by verdant hills. Home to the iconic Ima Keithel — the world's largest all-women market — and the sacred Shree Govindajee Temple, the city is a vibrant centre of Meitei culture, classical dance, and martial arts.

Best Time to Visit Imphal

Plan your trip around the right season

Oct-AprBest Window

Why visit

Most comfortable window for Kangla Fort, Ima Keithel (mothers market), Loktak Lake, and Keibul Lamjao National Park. Manipur Sangai Festival in November is a major cultural draw.

Keep in mind

Sangai Festival period fills Imphal accommodation. Book well ahead.

Show other seasons
May-Jun

Why visit

Pre-monsoon, morning sightseeing is still manageable.

Keep in mind

Humidity builds fast and logistics in Manipur can be complicated during transition months.

Jul-Sep

Why visit

Loktak Lake and surrounding hills look deeply green.

Keep in mind

Heavy Northeast monsoon. Road travel within Manipur slows significantly with rain and occasional landslides.

How to Reach Imphal

Intercity connectivity and travel options

Imphal airport (IMF) has flights from Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, and Bengaluru. NH37 and NH102 connect Imphal to Dimapur and Moreh. No railway connectivity to Manipur yet.

Getting Around Imphal

Local transport and practical tips

Getting Around

Autos and app cabs within Imphal city. Shared taxis for Loktak Lake (~50 km) and Keibul Lamjao National Park. Ima Keithel market is walkable from the city centre.

Quick Tip

Inner Line Permit required for most of Manipur beyond Imphal - arrange through registered operators before arrival.