Breaking all the rules of traditional parks, Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur holds the distinction of being the only floating national park in the world! Spread across the shimmering surface of Loktak Lake, this unique sanctuary offers a truly unforgettable experience where the ground beneath your feet actually moves.
The park’s terrain is not composed of solid earth but of phumdi—thick, buoyant mats of vegetation, organic matter, and roots that float naturally on the lake. This delicate, complex ecosystem is an entire habitat sustained on water, making Keibul Lamjao National Park one of India’s most precious and fragile natural treasures.
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🦌 Last Refuge of the Dancing Deer
Keibul Lamjao is globally renowned as the last natural home of the Sangai, Manipur’s state animal. Often called the “dancing deer,” the Sangai moves in elegant, careful steps because each stride is taken on the floating phumdi, which dips and sways slightly under its weight.
Once pushed to the brink of extinction, the Sangai population is now slowly recovering thanks to decades of dedicated conservation work. Spotting one of these magnificent creatures in the wild—antlers held high, perfectly balanced on a floating meadow—is considered one of India’s most extraordinary wildlife experiences.
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🌿 A Vital Biodiversity Hotspot
Beyond the Sangai, the park is designated as a critical biodiversity hotspot for the region. It supports:
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Aquatic Plants: Over 230 species of aquatic plants.
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Wildlife: A wide range of migratory birds and other diverse fauna.
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Local Life: Loktak Lake is not just a natural wonder; it is a vital part of the local economy, supporting thousands of fishermen who rely on traditional methods passed down through generations. You may even spot locals navigating their own floating phumdi huts!
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🛥️ Experiencing the Floating Park
To truly experience Keibul Lamjao National Park, you can take a traditional wooden boat to glide through the waters. For truly scenic views, catch local fishermen at work during sunrise or sunset.
If you are planning a trip, the park is easily accessible from Imphal, which hosts a major airport and railway station. Nearby, the INA Memorial at Moirang, where the Indian National Army first hoisted the flag during World War II, offers a chance to round off the trip with a dose of local history before exploring Imphal’s buzzing markets.
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