Bishnupur Travel Guide (Manipur/North-Eastern India/India/South Asia/Asia)

Introduction to Bishnupur

Bishnupur is a quaint town situated in the Bishnupur district of Manipur, India. It is a beautiful and serene place, surrounded by hills and forests, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Bishnupur is also known for its rich culture and heritage, which is evident in the beautiful temples, historic monuments, and museums found throughout the town.

List of Places to Visit in Bishnupur

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Bishnupur has a rich history and heritage, and there are many museums and historical places to visit that showcase this. Some of the must-visit places in Bishnupur include:

Shree Govindajee Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Krishna and is one of the most important temples in Manipur. It is known for its beautiful architecture and intricate carvings.
Manipur State Museum: This museum houses a collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich history and culture of Manipur.
Bishnupur Fort: This fort was built in the 15th century and is an important historical landmark in the town. It is also known for its beautiful architecture and design.

Natural Attractions of Bishnupur: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bishnupur is surrounded by hills and forests, making it a great destination for outdoor adventures and scenic views. Some of the must-visit natural attractions in Bishnupur include:

Loktak Lake: This is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and is known for its scenic beauty and biodiversity.
Keibul Lamjao National Park: This is the only floating national park in the world and is home to the endangered Sangai deer.
Thalon Cave: This cave system is located in the Thalon village and is known for its beautiful rock formations and underground lakes.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Bishnupur

Bishnupur is a popular destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts due to its beautiful natural surroundings. Some of the popular hiking and biking routes in Bishnupur include:

Loktak Lake Circular Bike Trail: This trail is about 40 km long and takes you around the beautiful Loktak Lake, offering stunning views of the lake and its surroundings.
Laimaton Hill Trek: This trek takes you up the Laimaton Hill and offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and forests.
Keibul Lamjao National Park Trek: This trek takes you through the Keibul Lamjao National Park and offers the opportunity to spot the endangered Sangai deer.

Best Things to Do in Bishnupur: Activities and Tours

Apart from visiting the must-visit attractions and natural sights, there are a few other fun things to do in Bishnupur. Some of the best things to do in Bishnupur include:

Taking a boat ride on Loktak Lake: This is a great way to explore the lake and its surroundings.
Visiting a local market: Bishnupur has many vibrant local markets, and visiting one is a great way to experience the local culture and buy souvenirs.
Trying the local cuisine: Bishnupur is known for its delicious cuisine, and trying local dishes is a must-do activity while in town.

Week-Long Itinerary for Bishnupur

If you are planning a week-long trip to Bishnupur, here is a sample itinerary that will help you make the most of your time in town:

Day 1: Arrive in Bishnupur and explore the town. Visit Shree Govindajee Temple and Bishnupur Fort.
Day 2: Take a bike ride around Loktak Lake and visit the Keibul Lamjao National Park.
Day 3: Visit the Manipur State Museum and spend the evening at a local market.
Day 4: Take a day trip to Imphal, the capital city of Manipur, and visit Kangla Fort and Women’s Market.
Day 5: Trek up Laimaton Hill and spend the evening trying the local cuisine.
Day 6: Take a boat ride on Loktak Lake and visit the Thalon Cave.
Day 7: Depart from Bishnupur.

Food and Drink Scene of Bishnupur

Must-Try Dishes

Bishnupur is known for its delicious cuisine, which is a mix of traditional Manipuri dishes and local specialties. Some of the must-try dishes in Bishnupur include:

Chak-hao Kheer: This is a dessert made with black rice, milk, and sugar and is a local delicacy in Manipur.
Chamthong: This is a traditional Manipuri stew made with vegetables and meat or fish.
Eromba: This is a popular Manipuri curry made with boiled vegetables and fish or meat.

Local Beverages

Bishnupur is known for its locally made beverages, which are a must-try while in town. Some of the local beverages to try in Bishnupur include:

Pineapple wine: This is a local specialty and is made from locally grown pineapples.
Chinga: This is a type of rice beer that is very popular in Manipur.
Black tea: Bishnupur is known for its delicious black tea, which is a must-try while in town.

Where to Stay in Bishnupur: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Bishnupur has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Some of the popular hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Bishnupur include:

Classic Grande: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of Bishnupur and offers comfortable rooms and excellent facilities.
Hotel Nirmala: This is a mid-range hotel located close to the town center and offers clean and comfortable rooms.
Xango Escapes: This is a budget-friendly hostel located on the outskirts of Bishnupur and offers dormitory-style accommodation.

What to Buy in Bishnupur: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Bishnupur has a range of local products and souvenirs to bring home as a memento of your trip. Some of the popular souvenirs and local products to buy in Bishnupur include:

Handmade bamboo products: Bishnupur is known for its handmade bamboo products, including baskets, cups, and other household items.
Black rice: Bishnupur is known for its black rice, which is a local specialty and makes for a great souvenir or gift.
Handmade textiles: Bishnupur is known for its handmade textiles, including shawls, scarves, and other clothing items.

Local Culture and Customs of Bishnupur

Bishnupur has a rich culture and heritage, and the locals take great pride in their traditions and customs. Some of the local customs and traditions to keep in mind when visiting Bishnupur include:

Dress modestly when visiting temples and other religious sites.
Remove shoes before entering temples and other religious sites.
Ask for permission before taking photographs of locals or their homes.

Best Time to Visit Bishnupur

The best time to visit Bishnupur is from October to March when the weather is pleasant and dry. The summer months (April to June) can be hot and humid, while the monsoon season (July to September) can bring heavy rains and make it difficult to explore the town and its surroundings.

Do’s and Don’ts of Bishnupur

Do:

Try the local cuisine and beverages.
Respect local customs and traditions.
Learn a few words in the local language.

Don’t:

Dress inappropriately when visiting temples and other religious sites.
Take photographs of locals or their homes without permission.
Disrespect the local culture and customs.

Safety and Health

Safety in Bishnupur

Bishnupur is a safe destination, and the locals are welcoming and hospitable. However, it is always important to take some precautions to ensure your safety. Some safety tips for traveling to Bishnupur include:

Carry a copy of your passport and important documents with you at all times.
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in secluded areas.
Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.

Health in Bishnupur

Bishnupur is a relatively safe destination in terms of health, and there are no major health concerns to be aware of. However, it is always advisable to take some precautions to ensure your health and well-being. Some health tips for traveling to Bishnupur include:

Drink bottled water and avoid drinking tap water.
Always carry mosquito repellent and use it liberally.
Consult a doctor before traveling and ensure that you are up-to-date on all vaccinations.

Getting to Bishnupur: Transportation Options and Logistics

Getting to Bishnupur is relatively easy, and there are several transportation options available. Some of the transportation options to reach Bishnupur include:

Air: The Imphal International Airport is the nearest airport to Bishnupur, and there are several flights connecting it with major Indian cities.
Road: Bishnupur is well-connected by road, and there are regular bus services connecting it with other major towns and cities in the region.
Rail: The nearest railway station to Bishnupur is located in Dimapur, and there are regular trains connecting it with other parts of India.

How to Get Around in Bishnupur

Getting around in Bishnupur is relatively easy, and there are several options available. Some popular ways to get around in Bishnupur include:

Taxis: Taxis are easily available in Bishnupur and are a convenient way to get around town.
Auto-rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are a cheaper option than taxis and are a convenient way to get around town.
Bikes: Bikes are available for rent in Bishnupur and are a great way to explore the town and its surroundings.

Where to Go Next from Bishnupur: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bishnupur is a great base to explore other nearby destinations and excursions. Some of the popular nearby destinations to visit from Bishnupur include:

Imphal: The capital city of Manipur is located just 26 km from Bishnupur and is a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts.
Kohima: Kohima is the capital city of Nagaland and is known for its beautiful natural surroundings and vibrant culture.
Kaziranga National Park: Kaziranga National Park is located in Assam and is home to the one-horned rhinoceros.

Conclusion

Bishnupur is a beautiful and serene town in Manipur, India, that is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, adventure enthusiasts, and culture and history buffs. With its rich history and heritage, beautiful natural surroundings, delicious cuisine, and warm and welcoming locals, Bishnupur is a great destination for anyone looking for a unique and unforgettable travel experience.

Bishnupur Image Gallery

A relief sculpture of Khuman Khamba, a legendary hero in Meitei folklore, located in a roadside in Bishnupur district, Manipur