Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in the state of Manipur and is known for its breathtaking natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. It is also very popular for the floating islands which are dense green vegetation that appears splendid when you see them from a bird’s eye view.
There is so much to this lake that is still unexplored and significantly fewer people know about this gem in Manipur. That’s about to change now. Read on to find out more about Loktak Lake, the attractive tourist attractions near it and the things you can do while you embark on a journey to witness the charm of this ecosystem.
The Loktak Lake and its Phumdis
The unique floating islands or the swamps that you will see over Loktak Lake are referred to as ‘Phumdis’ in the local language. These are natural vegetation comprising of soil and organic matter. They are simple reeds, grasses and even wetland plants. Each of these Phumdis is in a particular stage of decomposition. It is possible that they would dissolve and break apart due to various factors like natural hydrological changes, construction of dams, climate change and even pollution. So, we can only see them before they bid their ‘goodbyes’ forever.
The roots and branches of the green aquatic plants are tightly bound to each other and form a buoyant distinct shape. It is very similar to that of an island or the swamps in the case of the smaller ones.
Initially, the Phumdis formed naturally. However, people began making artificial Phumdis to assist them in fishing and establishing floating homesteads. Some Phumdis are big enough to serve agricultural purposes. These are also the breeding grounds of aquatic life and house avians and wildlife. It won’t be wrong to say that these Phumdis are an important part of the locals’ lives.
Things to do in and around Loktak Lake
There are so many interesting activities that you can indulge in while on a trip to explore Loktak Lake.
Here are some of the things that you shouldn’t miss out on.
Swimming
Loktak Lake is a pulsating water body that experiences seasonal changes in its water level. If you visit during the summer, the water is comparatively less than that of the post-monsoon months. Either way, you will definitely enjoy going on a swim in the lake. You can go from one Phumdi to another, hop on to a nearby boat or even float around with your friends and enjoy the view of the skies while the water pampers you. Compared to the other lakes in the country, Loktak Lake is more shallow and has the perfect water temperature to keep you comfortable.
Boating
You cannot visit Loktak Lake and not go boating on the long and attractive fishing boats. There’s only so much you can explore while swimming. The best time to go boating would be in the mornings. The fishermen take out their long canoes and set out to fetch the fish for the day. You can join them on the journey and experience the beauty of the natural surroundings while the hues of the first rays of the sun reflect off of Loktak Lake. You will also find locals who will give you a guided tour of the lake. There are motorboats as well for those who prefer a wider view of the lake and an added rush of adrenaline.
Visit Karang
Those who want to see the best views of Loktak Lake should visit Karang Island. There are going to be regular canoe boats that take you from the mainland to Karang Island. It will cost you anywhere between INR 10 to INR 50. However, be mindful that Karang Island is inhabited by local tribes who are very true to their traditions. It is best not to interrupt their daily activities while you are on your sightseeing trip.
Photographers can have the time of their lives on Karang Island! This is the best place where you can get some of the best clicks of the Phumdis and also the local aquatic and wildlife.
Fishing with the locals
Once you are done boating, you should definitely ask the locals to help you try your hand at fishing. This is an experience that you will never forget! The locals are very friendly people who will help you with the fishing sticks and nets, show you how it is done and you can get a fish or two yourself! Some of them would also show you the way to the local restaurants and food points that will cook the fish for you. That’s the best way to relish your catch!
Exploring Moirang
Moirang is the town where the Loktak Lake is located. It is a well-protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and has just the right kind of environment for a full-day exploration. You can go on a cultural walk, interact with the local tribes and see how they make a living by catching fish or indulging in agricultural activities on the Phumdis. You can know several local stories that are otherwise hidden from the masses. However, be respectful of their traditions and practices and keep the surroundings of the lake and the town clean and pristine.
If you are planning to explore the northeastern states soon, we suggest that you explore Manipur and its beautiful tourist places along with Loktak Lake.
Places to visit near the Loktak Lake
Keibul Lamjao National Park
Keibul Lamjao is the only national park in the country that is floating on a water body. This is present on one of the Phumdis of the Lohtak Lake. It has an area of about 40 square kilometres and is home to several species of birds, fish, amphibians and even reptiles. It is also the place where you will find the Sangai Deer or the Dancing Deer. It is also popular by the name Brow-Antlered Deer. You will be mesmerised to see the different kinds of waterfowl in the region. You will also find otters and civets in the national park. It’s also very important to note that this park has a very delicate ecosystem.
Despite their charming beauty, the Sangai Deer are often hunted and their numbers have dwindled down to a depressing number in the past years. That is why, the government has several measures in place to restore their population and to keep the poachers away. While you are in the national park, try to adhere to the rules and only explore the regions that are open for tourism. Moreover, when you watch the Sangai Deers from a distance, the view is something you will not forget. Their walk is similar to a flawless dance, the reason why they are also popularly known as the ‘Dancing Deers’.
INA Memorial at Moirang
The INA Memorial was established to honour all those brave souls who put their lives at stake to save the glory of the country. They fought alongside Subash Chandra Bose to rid the country of foreign invaders. It was way back in 1944, April when the Japanese forces and the IND soldiers marched into Manipur and hoisted the tricolour flag at Moirang. This was the moment when several Indians actively joined the freedom struggle movement and strived to send the Britishers back to their own country. Seeing the Japanese hoist our flag on our land showed that we could win against the colonisers. INA stands for Indian National Army.
In the memorial, you will find a statue of Netaji Subash Chandra Bose right near the entrance. There is a museum where you will find weaponry and other artefacts from the war and the freedom struggle movements. There are uniforms, photographs and even letters that freedom fighters sent to each other. The library has all the resources and historical records of the freedom struggle and details about the timeline of the wars.
On special occasions and national holidays, the INA also hosts several events, cultural programs, speeches and gatherings to celebrate the contributions of the INA soldiers and these events also happen on the birthday of Netaji and other famous INA soldiers.
Red Hills
Red Hills or Red Hills Lokpaching is a historic site that is closely related to the Indian freedom struggle. It is located close to Imphal, so you will have to travel a distance to reach the place from Loktak Lake. This is the exact place where a fierce battle took place between the Japanese soldiers and the Allied forces against the British army. The entire region turned red with the blood of the soldiers, thus earning it the name ‘Red Hill’.
In 1994, the Japanese erected the Indian Peace Memorial at Red Hill on the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Imphal. This is a simple way in which the Japanese government wanted to extend their friendship and call a truce. The memorial also hails the sacrifices of the Japanese soldiers who fought in the war alongside the allied forces or the IND led by Netaji Subash Chandra Bose.
As soon as you come to this place, it feels like you are being transported back to the time of the freedom struggle. The tension still lingers in the air and is very hard to miss.
Tourism and Economy of Loktak Lake
Loktak Lake is famous for its cultural and heritage tourism. The people who visit the place are fond of the lush greenery and peaceful surroundings. Unlike other tourist places in the northeastern states, Loktak Lake is generally less crowded. It is the best spot to explore the Manipuri culture, have their food, sing their songs and dance along with the locals. Most of the income comes from tourism activities that people pay for like leisure boating, homestays, entry charges of the national parks and the boats that take you across the Phumdis to reach the national park. The artisans and local vendors earn their livelihood by selling art, handicrafts and souvenirs. There are tour guides and hospitality staff who arrange for the sightseeing activities and handle guest houses in the region.
The locals grow their own vegetables on the Phumdis and fishing is the main source of local income here. It is a very peaceful place where you can forget the worries of the world and bask in the beauty of nature. The local infrastructure is also slowly growing, seeing how the tourist influx is increasing. The government is also putting up appropriate measures to educate the locals and tourists about environmental conservation efforts. They also teach the locals about sustainable living practices to reduce the impact of human activities on the Phumdis and Loktak Lake ecosystems.
How to Reach Loktak Lake?
By Air
The Imphal airport is the closest one to Loktak Lake. It is about 30 kms away from the lake and you will easily find local taxis outside the airport. You can either take a cab on your own or split the charges with other travellers to further reduce the travel fare.
By Rail
The Dimapur Railway Station is the closest to Loktak Lake. You will find private buses and taxis parked outside and you can take them to reach Imphal. The journey would be around 3 to 4 hours depending upon the mode of transport.
By Road
The road journey to Loktak Lake is ethereal. You must reach Imphal first to head towards Loktak Lake. You can drive through the picturesque routes in your own vehicle or you can take a local bus or taxi to reach the place. You will also find ‘Tuk Tuk’ or the local rickshaws that will take you through the serene paths and the experience is something you shouldn’t miss out on.
Loktak Lake is a great place to be if you love picturesque views. It shows you the breathtaking charisma of nature and the peace it offers.
Have you been to Loktak Lake before? Let us know about your journey in the comments section below!
