Culture & Experiences

Classical Dance

Manipuri Raas Leela

Manipuri dance is one of India's eight classical dance forms, and its most distinctive expression is the Raas Leela — a devotional dance of Radha and Krishna performed in swirling, layered skirts that ripple like water. The style is known for its extraordinary grace, gentle footwork and spiritual depth.

UNESCO has recognised the tradition as a masterpiece of intangible heritage. If you can catch a performance — often staged during festivals — it's an experience you won't forget.

Where to see it: Festival stages (especially Sangai Festival), the Jawaharlal Nehru Manipur Dance Academy, and temple courtyards during Raas festivals.

Heritage

The birthplace of modern polo

Long before it reached the West, polo was played in Manipur as Sagol Kangjei — riders on the small, hardy Manipuri pony (the sagol) striking a ball with bamboo mallets. The game has been played here for centuries, and the Imphal Polo Ground is one of the world's oldest.

British officers who saw the game in the 19th century carried it to England, and from there it spread worldwide. Manipuris remain deeply proud of this heritage — and the Manipuri pony is now itself a protected breed.

Where to experience it: The Polo Ground, and exhibition matches during festivals.

Festivals

A calendar of celebration

Manipur's festivals are colourful, musical and deeply rooted in community life. The big one for visitors is the Sangai Festival (late November), a multi-day showcase of dance, music, crafts and food. Yaoshang (February–March) is Manipur's version of Holi, with colour and traditional sports. Ningol Chakouba celebrates the bond between married women and their families with festive meals.

See the full festival calendar to plan your visit around the celebrations.

Crafts

Handloom & handcrafts

Manipur has a proud weaving tradition — the phanek (wrap-around skirt), the innaphi (shawl) and the striking moirang phee are woven by hand in rich geometric patterns. Bamboo and cane crafts are equally celebrated, from baskets to furniture.

Where to buy: Ima Keithel and dedicated craft emporiums. See our shopping guide for tips on buying authentic pieces.