Manipur

Manipur is a small state in northeastern India near the border with Myanmar, known for its lush valleys, distinctive culture and the historic Loktak Lake. Its capital is Imphal. Often called a jewel of India, it is the birthplace of polo and home to vibrant classical dance.

Manipur consists of a central valley surrounded by forested hills, with Loktak Lake, famous for its floating islands of vegetation, at its heart. The climate is humid subtropical, with heavy monsoon rains.

Manipuri culture is renowned for its graceful classical dance, martial arts and handloom weaving, with a strong Vaishnavite Hindu tradition in the valley and diverse tribal cultures in the hills. The modern game of polo originated here.

Long an independent kingdom with its own script and traditions, Manipur was a princely state that merged with India in 1949 and became a full state in 1972. It saw significant fighting during the Second World War near Imphal.