Keibul Lamjao National Park

About Keibul Lamjao National Park

Keibul Lamjao National Park, located near the city of Imphal in Manipur, is the only floating national park in the world. The park covers an area of approximately 40 square kilometers and is known for being the last natural refuge of the endangered Manipur brow-antlered deer, also known as the Sangai.

Location and Geographical Overview

The Keibul Lamjao National Park is situated in the Bishnupur district of Manipur, around 53 kilometers from the capital city of Imphal. It is located on the Loktak Lake, which is the largest freshwater lake in northeastern India. The park is characterized by its unique floating vegetation, known as phumdis, which are islands of organic matter and soil that float on the surface of the lake.

Open and Closing Time

The Keibul Lamjao National Park is open to visitors from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM every day of the week. It is recommended to visit the park in the early morning or late afternoon to maximize wildlife sightings.

Entry Fee

There is an entry fee of INR 20 for Indian nationals and INR 100 for foreign tourists to enter the Keibul Lamjao National Park. This fee is used for the conservation and maintenance of the park.

Species-Flora/Fauna Availability

The Keibul Lamjao National Park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including the rare Sangai deer, as well as other wildlife such as sambar deer, hog deer, otters, and various species of birds. The park is also rich in aquatic vegetation and serves as an important habitat for migratory birds.

Activities Performed

Visitors to the Keibul Lamjao National Park can engage in activities such as bird watching, nature walks, and boat rides on the Loktak Lake. The park is also popular for wildlife photography and jeep safaris.

Jeep Safari Charges

Jeep safaris are available for visitors to explore the Keibul Lamjao National Park. The charges for a jeep safari vary depending on the duration and route chosen, with prices starting at INR 500 per person.

Age Criterion for Male, Female, Children and their Entry Fee

Children below the age of 5 years are allowed to enter the Keibul Lamjao National Park free of charge. The entry fee for children between the ages of 5-12 years is INR 10, while for adults (both male and female) the fee is INR 20.

Senior Citizen Facilities

Senior citizens above the age of 65 are eligible for a discounted entry fee of INR 10 when visiting the Keibul Lamjao National Park. They can also avail of special facilities such as seating areas and assistance from park staff if required.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit the Keibul Lamjao National Park is during the winter season, from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are more frequent. The park is also open during the monsoon season, from June to September, but it is recommended to check weather conditions before planning a visit.

Nearby Places to Visit

While in Imphal, visitors can explore other tourist attractions such as Loktak Lake, Kangla Fort, Shri Govindajee Temple, and the War Cemetery. The city is also known for its vibrant markets and cultural performances, offering a rich experience of Manipuri heritage.

Vehicle Parking Facility

The Keibul Lamjao National Park has designated parking areas for visitors who arrive by private vehicles. The parking facility is secure and well-maintained, with attendants available to assist with parking and guide visitors to the park entrance.

Rules and Regulations

Visitors to the Keibul Lamjao National Park are required to follow certain rules and regulations to ensure the safety of wildlife and maintain the natural environment. Some of these rules include not littering, not feeding the animals, and not disturbing the habitat in any way. It is also advisable to stay on designated paths and follow the instructions of park staff.

How to Reach and Other Related Information

The Keibul Lamjao National Park can be reached from Imphal by road, with buses and taxis available for transportation. The nearest airport is Imphal Airport, which is well-connected to major cities in India. Visitors can also hire a guide to explore the park and learn more about the local flora and fauna. Accommodation options are available in Imphal, ranging from budget hotels to luxury resorts, making it convenient for tourists to plan a visit to the Keibul Lamjao National Park.