Manipur

Covering an area of 22,356 sq. km, the state of Manipur is essentially a mountainous region with a deep fertile valley in its centre. The state shares its boundaries with Nagaland in the north, Mizoram in the south, Burma in the east and the Cochar district of Assam in the west.

Legend attributes the birth of Manipur to a super being, called by different names, who is supposed to have dug a tunnel to drain out the water under which Manipur had lain for thousands of years. This tunnel called Chingnung Hut is on the side bordering Burma, and its execution is certainly remarkable. The story now forms a part of Manipuri folklore.

Manipur is the home of some 29 tribes such as the Nagas and the Kukis who live up in the hills while the rest of the populace of Hindu (Meiteis) and Muslims reside in the plains. Their link language is Manipuri.

The main attractions of the state are its marvellous natural scenery, its rich cultural traditions and festivals, its exquisite handicrafts and handlooms, and of course the famous Manipuri dance -- the Ras Leela -- one of India's major classical dance forms.

For further information, please contact: The Director of Tourism, Government of Manipur, Imphal 795001; or The Public Relations Officer, Manipur Information Centre, C-7 State Emporia Complex, Baba Kharak Singh Marg, New Delhi-110001.

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