The capital city of Manipur, Imphal, has a lot of exciting attractions to visit. Places to visit in Imphal include the serene Loktak Lake, which is well-known for its crystal water, and the venerable Kangla Fort, which showcases the area’s rich cultural legacy, are two of the main draws. Several must-visit sites in Imphal give travellers a memorable experience. The world’s largest women-run market, the busy Ima Keithel, offers a distinctive shopping experience. Imphal is one of the most travelled destinations in the beautiful city of Assam.
Top 15 Places To Visit In Imphal
From the largest freshwater lake to the biggest women run market in the world, here is a list of the top 10 places to visit in Imphal.
1. Loktak Lake

Photo: ch_15march / Wikimedia Commons
Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the area of Imphal. It is well-known for its phumdis, which are peculiar to this lake, and floating islands formed of decomposing plant matter and soil. Supporting a variety of plants and animals, including the endangered Sangai deer located in the Keibul Lamjao National Park, which is perched atop a phumdis, the lake is an essential component of the ecosystem. It is one of the best places to visit in Imphal, as Loktak Lake offers tourism and is enjoyable for people.
Top Experiences: Strolling and Photography
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
Suggested Read: Explore Floating Lake In Manipur
2. Kangla Fort

Photo: Yash Raina / Wikimedia Commons
Kangla Fort is situated in the centre of Imphal and is a rich and cultural site with a long history that dates back to antiquity. It was the political and military hub of the area when it was the Manipur Kingdom’s royal palace. People can enjoy exploring the sacred shrines, historic temples, and legendary dragon deities known as Kangla Sha. Kangla Fort is one of the most admired on the list of Imphal tourist places, as it provides insight into the cultural legacy of Manipur.
Top Experiences: Exploring and Photography
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
3. Imphal Valley

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Imphal Valley is tucked away in the hilly northeastern province of Manipur and is gorgeous and bountiful. The valley is well-known for its serene surroundings, and the Imphal River is one of the many rivers that intersect it, adding to its natural beauty. Imphal Valley is one of the most liked places for a Imphal trip as it serves as a hospitable retreat for locals and travellers. Tourists can enjoy trekking through the lush green trails and can bask in the warmth.
Top Experiences: Hiking and Photography
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Tezpur On Your Idyllic Trip To Assam
4. ISKCON Temple

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ISKCON Temple in Imphal is dedicated to Lord Krishna, and it is a calm and quiet escape for people travelling from various parts of the country. The International Society for Krishna Consciousness runs the temple with gorgeous murals, elaborate construction, and exquisitely decorated deities. This place is a hub for worship, meditation, and cultural events. People can enjoy colourful celebrations, especially on Janmashtami when people can gather to commemorate the birth of Lord Krishna.
Top Experiences: Praying and Exploring
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
5. INA Museum

Photo: PP Yoonus / Wikimedia Commons
An essential historical location honouring the Indian National Army and its part in India’s Independence movement is the INA Museum in Imphal, Manipur. The museum, housed in a structure from the colonial era, features artefacts, pictures, and records about the actions of the Indian National Army (INA) during World War II, especially those undertaken under Subhas Chandra Bose’s direction. This place describes the conflicts waged in the area, notably the crucial battle of Imphal.
Top Experiences: Exploring and Photography
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
Suggested Read: Ever Living Museum
6. Three Mothers Art Gallery

Photo: Three Mothers Art Gallery / Wikimedia Commons
Three Mothers Art Gallery in Imphal is a remarkable cultural establishment honouring the abundant creative legacy of the area. The three moms in Meitei culture- land, language, and mother- are the inspiration behind the gallery’s name, founded by the well-known artist Oja Rajkumar. It shows an electrical assortment of paintings, sculptures, and handicrafts that capture Manipur’s rich past and lively culture. The gallery encourages the appreciation and preservation of Manipuri art and is undoubtedly one of the renowned tourist places in Imphal.
Top Experiences: Exploring and Photography
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
7. Kombirei Garden

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Kombirei Garden in Imphal is a calm, well-kept public garden renowned for abundant vegetation and peaceful ambience. The garden next to the ancient Kangla Fort provides a relaxing refuge from the hustle and bustle of the city. People can enjoy taking strolls and relaxing in between the vivid flowerbeds. Additionally, Kombirei Garden holds various cultural events and neighbourhood activities, strengthening its reputation as a leisure and social interaction hub. Kombirei Garden is undoubtedly one of the best tourist attractions in Imphal.
Top Experiences: Strolling and Photography
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Meghalaya
8. Ima Keithel Market

Photo: PP Yoonus / Wikimedia Commons
The lively Ima Keithel Market in Imphal is well-known for being the biggest women-run market in the world. The market is a vibrant centre where regional women’s vendors offer a wide range of products, including home goods, fresh vegetables, traditional crafts, and textiles. People can enjoy exploring various regional and other products in the marketplace. This market is a must visit destination on your Imphal tourist places list because of its vibrant ambience and the array of customs that revolve around the market.
Top Experiences: Shopping and Exploring
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
9. RKCS Museum

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R.K. Sharma was a highly regarded artist, and his life and legacy are celebrated in the RKCS Museum in Imphal, Manipur. Sharma’s paintings, sculptures, and other artworks are displayed in the museum, showcasing his significant contributions to modern Indian art. People can enjoy viewing the displays, which provide an understanding of his distinct aesthetic and subject focus, covering aspects of Manipuri customs and culture. This place is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Imphal as it honours Manipur’s artistic legacy.
Top Experiences: Exploring and Photography
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
Suggested Read: Manipur State Museum
10. Lord Sanamahi Temple

Photo: Kayia N / Wikimedia Commons
Sanamahi, the local god of the Meitei community, is the subject of the famed Hindu shrine known as Lord Sanamahi Temple, which is situated in Imphal. The temple is renowned for its unique construction and draws devotion from worldwide. Devotees can pray and explore the temple architecture. They can also be a part of the festivals and ceremonies which reflect the region’s rich cultural legacy. This temple is undoubtedly an essential spiritual hub and one of the best places to visit in Imphal to connect with their spiritual sides.
Top Experiences: Praying and Exploring
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
These places to visit in Imphal make it an enthralling destination. Imphal is home to serene and ancient destinations that can be enjoyed by historians and people looking for an escape from city life. The city provides many experiences to cherish throughout. Plan your next trip to these places in Imphal with TripXL and bask in the warmth of these places.
11. Tharon Cave

Photo: Dr. Raju Kasambe / Wikimedia Commons
Digging deep into history, the Tharon Cave is an ancient jewel located at a distance of approximately 27 km from Tamenglong. This 655.6 m long cave with five exits and 34 joints is a maze in itself. One of the offbeat places to visit in Imphal, Manipur, the cave exudes rustic beauty and an old-world charm. Whether you are an adventure junkie or someone who wants to have a closer interaction with nature, then exploring the iconic Tharon Cave is a must for you.
Top Experiences: Mystical cave and vibrant halls
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
Suggested Read: Caves To Visit In Manipur
12. Shaheed Minar

Photo: Haoreima / Wikimedia Commons
Shaheed Minar, the 11 m tall towering jewel in Imphal, is a memorial for those who died against the British while fighting in the Meitei Revolt in 1891. It is situated at the centre of the Bir Tirkendrajit Park and is encircled by lush green vegetation. The minaret features three vertical beams clasped together at the top. The apex of the structure is characterised by three mythical dragons and is a treat to the eyes. The scenic vistas of the park add extra ounces of beauty to this minaret.
Top Experiences: Imphal Polo Ground and photography
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
13. Keibul Lamjao National Park

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Keibul Lamjao National Park is the only floating national park in the world. This floating island attracts nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts from all across the globe. Here, you can catch glimpses of endangered species of deer, wild boar, large Indian civets, fox, jungle cat, golden cat, East Himalayan Pied kingfisher, black kite, ducks, and more. Furthermore, you can also discover over 450 varieties of orchids, creating a beautiful spectacle of nature in this park. Also, the mesmerising views of the phumdis in the crystal-clear lake waters are a sight to behold.
Top Experiences: Endangered Sangai deer, floating phumdis, and Loktak Lake
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
Suggested Read: Dehing Patkai National Park
14. Singda Dam

Photo: Karthikcl19812 / Wikimedia Commons
Singda Dam, the highest mud dam in the world, is one of the top places to visit in Imphal. The dam is a multipurpose irrigation project overlooking a serene lake. It is surrounded by verdant landscapes offering a treat to the eyes. If you are someone looking for a peaceful retreat in the wilderness of nature, then Singda Dam is the place to be. It is a popular picnic spot with a tranquil setting away from the hubbub of city life.
Top Experiences: Picnic, trekking, and scenic views
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
15. Shri Govindjee Temple

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Tucked away in the heart of Imphal, Shri Govindjee Temple stands as a sacred and serene symbol of the state’s deep-rooted Vaishnavite faith. With its striking twin domes and peaceful atmosphere, this temple is a major attraction of the region. Built during the reign of Maharaja Chandrakirti Singh in the 19th century, Shri Govindjee Temple is one of the most prominent places to visit in Imphal, Manipur and a vital destination for devotees and tourists alike. Also, the temple showcases a blend of traditional Manipuri and Bengali architectural styles, offering a glimpse of the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Top Experiences: Traditional architecture and Manipuri Ritual Dance
Nearest Airport: Bir Tikendrajit International Airport
Suggested Read: Shri Govind Ji Temple In Manipur
Cover Photo: DeepanjanGhosh / Wikimedia Commons