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

Introduction to Kangla

Kangla is a historic site located in Imphal, the capital city of Manipur in North-Eastern India. It was the traditional seat of power of the Manipuri kings and served as the administrative and religious center of the kingdom for over 2000 years. The area was also the site of many battles between the Manipuri and the British.

Today, Kangla is a popular tourist destination, with its vast green space, ancient buildings, fascinating history, and rich cultural heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Kangla

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Kangla Fort: This is the main attraction of Kangla. The fort served as a royal palace, administrative center, and defense structure for the Manipuri kings. Today, it houses the Kangla Museum, which exhibits various artifacts, costumes, and weapons used by the Manipuri soldiers, army personnel, and the royal family.
Shree Govindajee Temple: This ancient temple is situated inside the Kangla Fort and is one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Manipuri Hindus. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and his brother Balarama.
Bir Tikendrajit Park: This park is a memorial to the hero and freedom fighter Kakchingtauba Bir Tikendrajit, who fought against the British.
Manipur State Museum: This museum has a diverse collection of artifacts from different ethnic communities of Manipur. It also showcases the state’s history, culture, and lifestyle.
Ibudhou Pakhangba Temple: This temple is dedicated to Lord Pakhangba, who is considered one of the most important deities of Manipuri Meitei community.

Natural Attractions of Kangla: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Kangla Uttra: This is the highest point of Kangla, offering panoramic views of Imphal city and surrounding hills.
Kangla Lake: It is also known as Kangla Pat, located just across the Kangla Fort. The lake is a perfect place for a leisurely walk and boating.
Pologround: Pologround is a lush green garden where you can relax and enjoy the exquisite beauty of nature.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kangla

There are various hiking and biking trails that visitors can take to explore Kangla’s lush greenery, natural beauty and the surrounding hills. Some popular routes include:

Kangla Hiking Trail: This is a serene 4.5 km long trail around Kangla, taking you through lush green forests and scenic viewpoints.
Loktak Lake Biking Trail: This trail is a 45 km long road in the Loktak Lake area, which takes you through small villages, paddy fields, and hills.

Best Things to Do in Kangla: Activities and Tours

Visit Kangla Fort: Take a guided tour of the Kangla Fort, which includes entry to the Kangla Museum, gardens, and the ancient palace.
Enjoy a Cultural Performance: Witness the traditional dance and music performances of Manipuri Meitei community.
Attend the Sangai Festival: The Sangai Festival is an annual tourism festival held in Imphal. It displays the state’s cultural heritage, traditional sports, handicrafts, and cuisines.
Explore the Nearby Villages: Visit the nearby villages of Khwairamband Bazaar, Andro and Sekmai, which are renowned for their traditional handicrafts and cultural sites.
Take a Boat Ride on Kangla Lake: Enjoy a leisurely boat ride on Kangla Lake and relish the exquisite beauty of nature.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kangla

Day	Activity
Day 1	Visit Kangla Fort, Shree Govindajee Temple, and Kangla Museum
Day 2	Take a guided tour of the Manipur State Museum and Bir Tikendrajit Park
Day 3	Explore the nearby villages of Khwairamband Bazaar, Andro and Sekmai
Day 4	Attend a traditional dance and music performance of Manipuri Meitei community
Day 5	Take a boat ride on Kangla Lake and relax at Pologround
Day 6	Hike on the Kangla Hiking Trail and enjoy scenic views
Day 7	Enjoy the Sangai Festival and savor the local cuisines

Food and Drink Scene of Kangla

Must-Try Dishes

Chak-hao kheer: It is a sweet dish made of black rice, milk, and sugar, which is a specialty of Manipur.
Eromba: It is a vegetable stew made with boiled vegetables, fermented fish, and chilly paste.
Paknam: It is a rice flour pancake served with a meat-based gravy.

Local Beverages

Tongba: It is a traditional beer made from fermented millet, which is popularly consumed in Manipur.

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

There are a few options for accommodation in and around Kangla. Some popular options are:

Classic Grande: This hotel is situated near Imphal’s city center and offers premium rooms, a restaurant, and a rooftop bar.
Hotel Imphal: Hotel Imphal is a budget-friendly option situated near the airport and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant.
Youth Hostel Manipur: This hostel offers budget-friendly accommodation for travelers and is situated on the way to Loktak Lake.

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

Manipuri Shawls: Manipuri shawls are an essential part of traditional Manipuri attire and are available in various colors and materials.
Handicrafts: Manipur is famous for its cane and bamboo products, leather items, pottery, and wickerwork.
Black Rice: Manipur is famous for its fragrant, black rice, which makes an excellent souvenir to bring back home.

Local Culture and Customs of Kangla

The predominant culture in Kangla is the Manipuri Meitei culture, which has a rich history and unique traditions. The locals celebrate numerous festivals throughout the year, including Lai Haraoba, Cheiraoba, Yaoshang, and Ningol Chakouba.

Best Time to Visit Kangla

The best time to visit Kangla is from October to February, when the weather is pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kangla

Do:

Respect the local culture and customs.
Dress modestly while visiting religious sites.
Try the local cuisines and attend cultural performances.

Don’t:

Engage in any activities that are harmful to the environment or wildlife.
Take photographs of individuals without their consent.
Litter the surroundings.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kangla

Kangla is a safe place to visit, but visitors should be mindful of pickpockets and put their valuables in a safe place. It is also advisable to avoid traveling at night and wandering off to isolated areas.

Health in Kangla

Visitors are advised to carry their own medical kit and sufficient water while indulging in outdoor activities as there may be limited medical facilities available in the area.

Getting to Kangla: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Kangla

The nearest airport to Kangla is the Imphal International Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India.

Bus Stations Near Kangla

There are regular buses from Imphal to other nearby cities like Guwahati, Kohima, and Dimapur.

Other Options

Visitors can also choose to hire a taxi or self-drive to Kangla.

How to Get Around in Kangla

The best way to get around Kangla is by walking or cycling. Visitors can also hire a taxi or auto-rickshaw, but it is advisable to negotiate the fare beforehand.

Where to Go Next from Kangla: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Loktak Lake: It is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India and is situated just 38 km from Kangla.
Manipur Zoological Gardens: This zoo is home to various exotic species of animals, birds, and reptiles and is located 7 km from Kangla.
Ukhrul: It is a beautiful hill station located 84 km from Kangla, known for its natural beauty, orchids, and the Shirui Lily Flower Festival.

Conclusion

Kangla is a must-visit destination for history buffs, nature lovers, culture enthusiasts, and adventure seekers. With its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and various attractions, it makes for an unforgettable vacation experience. Visitors are advised to plan their itinerary in advance and to abide by local customs and traditions while exploring this fascinating city.