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Amit Khanna Staff answered 5 months ago
Reaching Manipur, particularly its capital city Imphal, involves several options depending on your starting point. Here’s a detailed guide for first-time visitors:
By Air:
Imphal Tulihal Airport (IMF)
Domestic Flights: Imphal is well connected by air to major cities in India such as Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bangalore. Airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and AirAsia operate regular flights to Imphal.
International Connectivity: Currently, Imphal does not have direct international flights, so international travelers typically fly into major Indian airports like Delhi or Kolkata and then take a connecting flight to Imphal.
By Train:
Closest Railway Stations:
Dimapur Railway Station (DMV): Located about 215 km from Imphal, Dimapur is the nearest major railway station. It is well connected to cities like Guwahati, Kolkata, and Delhi.
Jiribam Railway Station (JRBM): Approximately 220 km from Imphal, it is the closest railway station within Manipur, but it has fewer train services compared to Dimapur.
Further Connectivity:
From Dimapur or Jiribam, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to reach Imphal. The road journey takes around 5-6 hours from Dimapur and slightly less from Jiribam.
By Road:
National Highways:
NH 2: Connects Imphal with Dimapur and Kohima in Nagaland.
NH 37: Connects Imphal with Silchar in Assam.
Bus Services:
Government and Private Buses: Manipur State Transport and several private operators run regular bus services from nearby cities like Guwahati, Silchar, and Dimapur to Imphal.
Shared Taxis and Private Cabs: Shared taxis and private cabs are also available from these cities, offering a more comfortable and quicker journey compared to buses.
By Car:
Self-Driving:
From Guwahati: The distance is about 490 km and takes around 10-12 hours via NH 27 and NH 2.
From Silchar: The distance is approximately 260 km, taking around 7-8 hours via NH 37.
Tips for First-Time Visitors:
Travel Permits: Indian tourists do not require special permits to visit Manipur. However, foreign tourists need to obtain a Protected Area Permit (PAP), which can be arranged through Indian consulates or regional FRRO offices.
Weather Considerations: The best time to visit Manipur is between October and March when the weather is pleasant. Monsoon (June to September) can make travel challenging due to heavy rainfall.
Local Transportation: Auto-rickshaws, taxis, and local buses are common modes of transport within Imphal and nearby areas.
Safety and Health: While Manipur is generally safe for tourists, it is advisable to stay updated on the local situation. Carry basic medical supplies and stay hydrated.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs and traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
By considering these transportation options and tips, first-time visitors can plan a smooth and enjoyable trip to Manipur.
Sameer Staff answered 4 months ago
To reach Manipur, you can travel by air, train, or road. The state’s capital, Imphal, is well-connected by air with direct flights from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati. The Imphal Airport, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, serves as the primary gateway. For those traveling by train, the closest major railway station is in Dimapur, Nagaland, about 215 kilometers from Imphal, with further road transport required to complete the journey. Additionally, Manipur is accessible by road from neighboring states like Assam and Nagaland, with well-maintained highways leading to Imphal.