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Loktak Lake!

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Population

Varies depending on surrounding villages

schedule

Best Time

October to March

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Time Needed

2-3 days minimum

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Currency

Rupee (β‚Ή)

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location_on Manipur map Northeast India πŸ–οΈ Beaches 🦁 Wildlife 🏝️ Islands Lakes & Rivers Loktak Lake Manipur Northeast India Floating Lake Keibul Lamjao National Park Sendra Island

Loktak Lake, located in Manipur, Northeast India, is the largest freshwater lake in the region. It's famous for its phumdis (floating islands), which are heterogeneous masses of vegetation, soil, and organic matter at various stages of decomposition. The lake supports the livelihoods of many local communities through fishing and agriculture.

Loktak Lake offers a unique natural experience, with its floating islands and the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the world's only floating national park. However, accessibility can be a challenge due to limited transportation options and infrastructure. The lake's ecological balance is also under threat from pollution and human activity.

To fully experience Loktak Lake, plan for at least two to three days. The nearest airport is in Imphal, from where you can hire a taxi to reach the lake. Consider booking accommodation in advance, especially during peak season.

When To Visit

Best Time

October to March

15-25 degrees C

Pleasant and dry weather, ideal for exploring the lake and surrounding areas. Clear skies offer excellent views.

Why Visit:

This is the best time for birdwatching and enjoying boat rides on the lake. The weather is comfortable for hiking and exploring Keibul Lamjao National Park. The post-monsoon landscape is lush and vibrant.

Tip: This is the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Booking accommodations and boat trips in advance is highly recommended.

Shoulder Season

April to May

25-35 degrees C

Hot and humid weather, with occasional pre-monsoon showers.

Why Visit:

Fewer tourists than peak season, offering a more peaceful experience. You might get better deals on accommodation.

Tip: The heat can be uncomfortable for outdoor activities. Check the weather forecast before planning your trip.

Avoid

June to September

20-30 degrees C

Heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. The lake can overflow, and roads may be flooded.

Why Avoid:

Avoid visiting during the monsoon due to heavy rains and potential flooding. Outdoor activities are severely limited.

Note: Some accommodations and attractions may be closed during this period. Travel can be difficult and unsafe.

Top Sights - Top Attractions!

Keibul Lamjao National Park

⏱ 4-5 hours β‚Ή50 (Indians), β‚Ή500 (foreigners)

Keibul Lamjao National Park is the world's only floating national park, located on the Loktak Lake. It is the last natural refuge of the endangered Sa...

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Sendra Island

⏱ 2-3 hours β‚Ή30 (Indians), β‚Ή300 (foreigners)

Sendra Island is a hillock located in the middle of Loktak Lake. It offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding phumdis....

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Loktak Lake Viewpoint

⏱ 1 hour β‚Ή20 (Indians), β‚Ή200 (foreigners)

The Loktak Lake Viewpoint offers a stunning panoramic view of the entire lake and its floating phumdis....

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Ithai Barrage

⏱ 1-2 hours Free

The Ithai Barrage is a dam built on the Manipur River, which feeds Loktak Lake. It plays a crucial role in regulating the water level of the lake....

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Moirang

⏱ 2-3 hours Free

Moirang is a town located on the shores of Loktak Lake. It is known for its historical and cultural significance....

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Loukoipat Ecological Park

⏱ 2 hours β‚Ή20 (Indians), β‚Ή200 (foreigners)

Loukoipat Ecological Park is a protected area showcasing the flora and fauna of the region. It aims to conserve the natural environment around Loktak ...

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Thanga Island

⏱ 3-4 hours Free

Thanga Island is a fishing village located on a phumdi on Loktak Lake. It provides a unique insight into the lives of the local fishermen and their fa...

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Things To Do

attractions

Boat Trip on Loktak Lake

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή500-1500 per boat

Explore the lake by boat and witness the unique floating phumdis. You can hire a boat from Moirang or other lakeside vil...

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attractions

Wildlife Safari in Keibul Lamjao National Park

⏱ 3-4 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή1000-2000 per person

Take a guided wildlife safari through the national park to spot the Sangai deer and other animals. The safari is conduct...

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attractions

Fishing with Locals

⏱ 2-3 hours πŸ’° β‚Ή300-500 per person

Join local fishermen in their daily activities and learn about their traditional fishing techniques. This is a unique op...

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attractions

Birdwatching

⏱ 2-4 hours πŸ’° Free (Guide fees extra: β‚Ή500-1000)

Loktak Lake is a haven for birdwatchers, with a diverse range of avian species. Explore the lake's shores and wetlands t...

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Cultural Experiences

celebration

Lai Haraoba Festival

Several days | Free

Lai Haraoba is a traditional Manipuri festival celebrated to please the local deities. It involves e...

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celebration

Traditional Manipuri Dance Performance

1-2 hours | β‚Ή200-500

Experience the grace and beauty of traditional Manipuri dance forms like Raas Leela and Khamba Thoib...

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celebration

Visit a Local Weaving Workshop

2-3 hours | Free (purchase of items extra)

Manipur is known for its exquisite handloom weaving. Visit a local workshop to see how traditional t...

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celebration

Attend a Traditional Manipuri Wedding

Several hours | Free (if invited)

If you have the opportunity, attend a traditional Manipuri wedding. These weddings are elaborate aff...

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celebration

Try Local Manipuri Cuisine Cooking Class

3-4 hours | β‚Ή500-1000

Learn to cook traditional Manipuri dishes from a local chef. This is a fun and interactive way to ex...

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celebration

Interact with Fisherman at Thanga Village

2-3 hours | Free

Visit Thanga village and interact with the fishermen to understand their lifestyle and fishing techn...

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Eat This!

Must-Try Dishes

Eromba
Eromba

A traditional Manipuri dish made with boiled vegetables and fermented fish (Ngari). Try it at a local restaurant in Moirang.

Singju
Singju

A spicy salad made with various vegetables, herbs, and roasted sesame seeds. Available at most local eateries.

Chamthong or Kangshoi
Chamthong or Kangshoi

A hearty vegetable stew with seasonal greens. Best enjoyed during the winter months.

Ngari
Ngari

Fermented fish, a staple ingredient in Manipuri cuisine. Try it in various dishes at local restaurants.

Where to Eat

Loktak Floating Restaurant

Loktak Floating Restaurant

β‚Ήβ‚Ή

Indian, Chinese

πŸ“ Sendra Island

Offers decent food with a great view of the lake. A popular spot for tourists. It is currently closed for renovation but is scheduled to reopen soon.

Fresh fish preparations

β‚Ή500-800 for two

Ningthoukhongjam Lairembi Hotel

Ningthoukhongjam Lairembi Hotel

β‚Ή

Manipuri

πŸ“ Moirang

Serves authentic Manipuri cuisine in a simple setting. A good place to try local dishes.

Eromba and Singju

β‚Ή300-500 for two

Street Food Spots

Moirang Market

Moirang Market

πŸ’° Budget: β‚Ή50-100 per person

⚠️ Tips: Try the local snacks for a quick bite. Ensure the food is freshly prepared and hygienic.

🍽️
Discover More on
Foodie Finder: Loktak Lake

More restaurants & dishes from Loktak Lake

Where To Stay ?

Best Neighborhoods

Moirang

Moirang is the closest town to Loktak Lake, offering basic amenities and access to the lake. It's a good base for exploring the lake and its surroundings, but expect limited options for dining and entertainment.

Best For: Budget travelers, those seeking easy access to the lake

Thanga Village

Staying in Thanga Village offers a unique cultural experience, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. However, expect limited amenities and basic accommodation.

Best For: Cultural immersion, adventurous travelers

Accommodation Options

Budget

πŸ’°

β‚Ή800-1500/night

Loktak Aquamarine Floating Homestay

πŸ“ Thanga Village

Offers a unique experience of staying on a floating homestay. Basic amenities with a local touch.

β‚Ή800-1500/night

Classic Hotel

πŸ“ Moirang

Provides clean and basic rooms with essential amenities. Good for a short budget trip.

β‚Ή700-1200/night

Mid-Range

🏨

β‚Ή2000-3500/night

Sendra Park & Resort

πŸ“ Sendra Island

Offers comfortable rooms with lake views. Provides good service and dining options.

β‚Ή2000-3500/night

Hotel Yaiphaba

πŸ“ Moirang

Provides well-maintained rooms and modern amenities. A decent stay with a restaurant on-site.

β‚Ή1800-3000/night

Luxury

✨

β‚Ή4000+/night

The Classic Hotel Imphal

πŸ“ Imphal (48km from Loktak)

Offers luxurious rooms and excellent service. Provides modern amenities and fine dining options.

β‚Ή4000+/night

Hotel Imphal

πŸ“ Imphal (48km from Loktak)

Provides comfortable and well-equipped rooms. Features a swimming pool and spa services.

β‚Ή3500+/night

View all stay & eat options

How To Get There ?

flight

By Air

Airport: Imphal Airport (IMF), 48km from Loktak Lake

train

By Train

Stations:

Dimapur Railway Station (DMV)

Nearest major railway station. Trains from Guwahati and Kolkata arrive here.

Routes:
  • From Guwahati: 12 hours (β‚Ή1500-2500). Then take a bus or taxi to Imphal.

Booking: IRCTC or 12Go.asia

directions_bus

By Bus

Terminals:
  • Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT), Imphal
Routes:
  • From Guwahati: 12-14 hours (β‚Ή800-1200)

Note: Trains more comfortable.

Getting Around

local_taxi

Taxi

πŸ’° β‚Ή1000-2000 per day

Best for: Long distances, comfort

Negotiate the price beforehand. Hire a taxi for a full day to explore multiple attractions.

directions

Boat

πŸ’° β‚Ή500-1500 per trip

Best for: Exploring the lake, visiting islands

Negotiate the price before boarding. Ensure the boat is safe and has life jackets.

local_taxi

Auto-rickshaw

πŸ’° β‚Ή50-200 per trip

Best for: Short distances within Moirang

Negotiate the price before starting your journey.

Practical Tips

checkroom

What To Wear

Wear comfortable and modest clothing. Dress in layers as the weather can change quickly. Carry a light jacket or sweater.

payments

Money

Daily Budget: Budget: β‚Ή1500, Mid: β‚Ή3000, Luxury: β‚Ή5000+

ATMs: ATMs are available in Imphal and Moirang, but it's advisable to carry sufficient cash.

Cash vs Card: Cash is widely accepted, especially in smaller establishments. Credit cards may be accepted in larger hotels and restaurants.

Bargaining: Bargaining is expected in local markets and with taxi drivers.

health_and_safety

Health

Water: Drink bottled water or boiled water to avoid waterborne diseases.

Food: Eat at reputable restaurants and avoid street food that looks unhygienic.

Common Issues: Carry insect repellent to protect against mosquito bites. Consult a doctor for any necessary vaccinations.

sim_card

Communication

SIM Cards: Airtel and Vodafone offer good coverage. Purchase a local SIM card with data for easy communication.

WiFi: Wi-Fi is available in some hotels and restaurants, but the connectivity may be limited.

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Language & Tipping

Language: English proficiency is limited. Learning a few basic Manipuri phrases can be helpful.

Tipping: Restaurant: 5-10%, drivers: β‚Ή50-100

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