Manipur celebrates one of the biggest cultural festivals of India, Sangai Festival every year from November 21st to 30th. The festival is named after the state’s official animal, shy but popular Sangai Deer. This is a festival where you will witness all the major trademarks of Manipuri culture under the same roof. Manipuri dance, art & culture, handlooms, handicrafts, cuisine, adventure sports and other highlights of the state are showcased during this festival, to present Manipur as a world-class tourist destination in the world.
The festival attracts tourists of diverse tastes and preferences as there are lots of themes celebrated here. Some of the major activities that can be witnessed at this festival are:
- Traditional Boat Races
- Indigenous Sports competitions
- Cultural Exhibitions
- Adventure sports activities
- Water Sports activities
- Trekking expeditions
- Famous Manipuri dance shows
About Manipur
The beauty of Manipur can be understood by its nickname,” Switzerland of India”. It was also known as a “Jewel of India” by none other than the first Prime Minister of the country, Mr. Jawaharlal Nehru. With its mighty mountains, blue-placid waters and less-explored tourist destinations, Manipur is an unspoilt beauty. Sangai Festival is one of the important tourism generating factors for the state as it attracts thousands of people from all over the globe.
How to reach
Air – Imphal Tulihal Airport, at a distance of 8km from the main city, is the nearest airport to reach Manipur. This airport has an excellent connectivity with all the other important cities of India.
Train – Guwahati or Dimapur railway junction is the nearest to Manipur. From here, there are lots of buses and taxis that take you to Manipur.
Road – Direct buses, operated by private transport companies, are available from Guwahati, Dimapur and Silcharto Manipur on a daily basis.
Where to stay
Manipur Tourism Development Corporation has partnered with the following hotels to accommodate guests coming to the state to take part in the Sangai Festival.
- Hotel Imphal
- The Classic Hotel
- Hotel Nirmala
- Hotel Bheigo
- Hotel New Airlines
- Hotel Krishinta
- Hotel Anand Continental
- Youth Hostel
- Classic Grande
- State Guest House
- Hotel White Palace
- Hotel Prince
- Hotel Pintu
- Hotel Tampha
- Hotel Avenue
- State Youth Centre
- Mass Hotel
Things to do
- Shopping in Khwairamband Bazaar or the Ima Market which is run by women completely – one of its kind in India
- Sightseeing at the nearby Loktak Lake
- Tour around the KeibulLamjao National Park, which is the only place which houses the Sangai deer
