Imphal is the capital of Manipur, a state in northeastern India. On the Imphal River, Kangla Fort was once the seat of local rulers, and now houses relics. On the south side of the centuries-old Polo Ground, Manipur State Museum has displays including tribal artifacts and a large royal boat. Next to the former Royal Palace, Shri Shri Govindaji Temple has twin domes, a large hall and shrines to Hindu gods.
Shaheed Minar is a soaring white monument dedicated to the tribal people who died while fighting the British in 1891. The nearby Ima Keithel market, run solely by women, has hundreds of stalls selling fresh produce, household goods and handicrafts. North of the city center, the War Cemetery commemorates British and Indian soldiers who died in WWII. Southeast, in the village of Andro, the Mutua Museum exhibits arts and crafts from northeastern India, plus replicas of tribal houses. To the south, set on Loktak Lake, Keibul Lamjao National Park is a natural habitat for the rare Sangai deer. The park is also home to migratory birds.
When to visit: Peak travel is Nov–Jan. Imphal has a warm, temperate climate. Apr–Jun sees the highest temperatures. Monsoon season (Jul–Sep) is also hot, and marked by heavy rainfall and strong winds. Winters (Dec–Feb) are cool and dry. The Rath Yatra of Manipur, also known as Kang (Jun/Jul), features a procession symbolizing Lord Jagannath leaving the Shri Shri Govindaji Temple. Kut (Nov 1) is a tribal festival celebrating the fall harvest. Sangai Festival (Nov) is a major event showcasing Manipur’s traditional dances and sports.