Imphal—the capital of the northeast Indian state of Manipur—is closer to the pagodas of Myanmar than the domes of the Taj Mahal. Indeed, it's more than 1,500 miles (2,400 kilometers) east of Delhi. Once an independent kingdom, Manipur's biggest city still boasts its own history, traditions, and culture. There are plenty of things to do in and around Imphal, from handwoven textile markets to boat rides around Loktak Lake’s floating islands (known as phumdis). However, ethnic clashes have made travel potentially unsafe, so check the latest advisories.
Unlike in many parts of India, Imphal’s geography and slight elevation protect it from the scorching heat, making April and May ideal for a visit. The only season to avoid is the monsoon, lasting roughly from June until September. Sangai Festival, a 10-day cultural showcase, is held in November and is a great place to catch dance performances. Yaoshang, a 5-day Hindu springtime festival known elsewhere in India as Holi, typically occurs in March.
While much of Northeast India is hard to access because of limited travel infrastructure and mountainous terrain, Imphal is a flight away. Imphal International Airport serves direct flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and other Indian cities. You’ll likely pass through one of those hubs if headed here from abroad. Once in Imphal, auto-rickshaws offer a bumpy ride, while longer trips are best by shared or private taxis. The city's center is fairly walkable.
Don’t miss Keibul Lamjao National Park, where Manipur’s famous phumdis are located. The floating park lies around 25 miles (40 kilometers) from the capital. You can arrange a taxi from Imphal, but the best way to visit the islands is by boat—you’ll find rentals and guided excursions available on-site. Look for the endangered sangai deer. If you’re interested in wildlife spotting, come in the early morning when the animals tend to be most active.