Imagine yourself gliding past the phumdis (floating islands) on Loktak Lake while you have a leisurely lunch on a homestay in the middle of the lake and enjoy a sense of unparalleled serenity.

Manipur is the land of the unexpected, as you walk among the ruins of the ancient Kangla fort, your local travel partner will regale you with tales of intrigue about kings and warriors who withstood many centuries of invasion by the Burmese, British and Japanese. Visit the Sangai Festival, the state-run cultural fest and experience many a new things…witness a fast-paced game of polo in the land where it originated many centuries ago. Catch a glimpse of the Sangai or dancing deer found only in Manipur. Indulge in traditional Manipuri food at our favorite stall at the Sangai Festival as your local travel partner orders dishes to tease your palette! From the spicy Singju (a crunchy salad of cabbage, lotus stem and local greens in king chilly-sesame chutney) to the nutty-flavored black rice kheer and much, much more. Shop at a 16th century market, Ima Keithal, where you will be assisted to negotiate and interact with village artisans to bring back not just souvenirs but precious memories.

ITINERARY

DAY 1

Date: November 23, 2019

Time: 1:00 pm

Imphal - Moirang

Arrive at Imphal International Airport by late morning or afternoon. (you will be informed which are the best flights to book). You will be greeted by our local guide and drive to Moirang (45 km / 1.5 hours). En route visit the Japanese war memorial and the INA museum. Check into your hotel and refresh. Relax and meet your travel companions. In the evening your guide will take you go for a walk around the lake to take in the gorgeous views of the sunset and life in the small fishing villages. Spend the evening at leisure in the hotel.

DAY 2

Date: November 24, 2019

Time: 9:30 am Moirang

In the morning, set out to explore the local sights of Imphal. Start with a boat ride on the Loktak Lake and watch the fishermen cast their nets. Explore a floating Phumdis with a tiny hut that is a two bedroom home-stay owned by very hospitable people. The view of the lake from the little erected platform is lovely. Then proceed to a small home-stay situated near the lake to view the local costumes and enjoy a traditional lunch here. In the afternoon, you will visit the Keibul Lamjao National Park to spot the Sangai deer. If you want to opt for the boat ride inside the sanctuary, please inform the guide a day before so that he can arrange it and let you know the cost. This activity requires a minimum of 4-5 people. In the evening relax at the hotel and take walks around the property or just take in the views.

DAY 3

Date: November 25, 2019

Time: 10:00 am Moirang - Imphal

After breakfast check out and drive to Imphal. Visit the RKCS Art Gallery, a wonderful private gallery with stunning canvases that visually depicts the history of the state. Lunch will be arranged at the hotel and we will invite a local to join you and interact with you to provide a brief understanding of life in Manipur. Early evening continue to the Sangai festival venue to participate in the activities. We recommend you try some of the local cuisine for dinner while you are there. We suggest you carry cash to shop and eat.

DAY 4

Date: November 26, 2019

Time: 9:30 am Imphal

Start the day with a visit to Kangla fort, regarded as a sacred site by the Manipuris. It was also the seat of power for the kings of Manipur and subsequently for the British. The grounds arebeautiful with lovely examples of varied architecture. A visit to the Museum here is highly recommended. For lunch Visit one of the more popular restaurants here. Then the international polo ground to witness a match. Early evening visit IMA market. This market is entirely run by women and a great place to pick up baskets, textiles and little gifts to take back home. This 500 years old market needs to be explored leisurely, so good walking shoes are recommended. Carry cash as credit cards are unheard off here. Spend the evening at leisure in the hotel or after a short rest, those who wish can visit the festival grounds to watch a few more performances.

DAY 5

Date: November 27, 2019

Time: 10:30 am

After a leisurely breakfast, check out. You will be taken to Imphal International Airport to catch your return/onward flights. Please book either a late afternoon or an evening flight out of Imphal. You have an option of visiting a few retail outlets in Imphal