Explore the map of Manipur, a state in northeastern India, spans approximately 22,327 square kilometres and has a population of about 2.7 million people according to the 2011 Census. The capital city, Imphal, is known for its historical and cultural significance. Manipur is renowned for its natural beauty, with the Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in northeastern India, being a notable feature. The state is home to diverse ethnic groups, including the Meitei, Naga, and Kuki communities, each contributing to its rich cultural heritage. Manipur's economy is primarily agrarian, with significant contributions from handloom and handicrafts.
Explore the Manipur district map showing the 16 districts, district headquarters and capital of Manipur state in India.
List of Districts of Manipur
S.N.
Code
District
Indigenous Names of Districts
Headquarters
Population (2011)
Area (km²)
Density (/km²)
1
BPR
Bishnupur
Bishnupur
Bishnupur
240,363
496
415
2
TBL
Thoubal
Thoubal
Thoubal
420,517
514
713
3
IE
Imphal East
Imphal East
Porompat
452,661
710
555
4
IW
Imphal West
Imphal West
Lamphelpat
514,683
519
847
5
SE
Senapati
Tahamzam
Senapati
354,772
3,269
116
6
UKR
Ukhrul
Ukhrul
Ukhrul
183,115
4,547
31
7
CDL
Chandel
Chamdil
Chandel
144,028
3,317
37
8
CCP
Churachandpur
Tuiṭhaphai
Churachandpur
271,274
4,574
50
9
TML
Tamenglong
Inriangluang
Tamenglong
140,143
4,391
25
10
JBM
Jiribam
Jiribam
Jiribam
43,818
232
190
11
KPI
Kangpokpi (Sadar Hills)
Kanggui
Kangpokpi
12
KAK
Kakching
Kakching
Kakching
135,481
13
TNL
Tengnoupal
Tengnoupal
Tengnoupal
14
KJ
Kamjong
Kamjong
Kamjong
45,616
2,000
23
15
NL
Noney
Longmai
Noney
16
PZ
Pherzawl
Pherzawl
Pherzawl
47,250
2,285
21
Districts of Manipur
Manipur, a state in northeastern India, is divided into 16 districts, each with unique characteristics and cultural significance. These districts facilitate effective governance and regional development, catering to a diverse population of approximately 2.7 million people.
Imphal East and Imphal West
These central districts house the capital city, Imphal, which is the administrative and commercial hub of Manipur. Imphal is known for its historical landmarks such as Kangla Fort, and educational institutions like Manipur University. The combined population of these districts is over 600,000, with a significant urban population.
Thoubal
Located in the southeastern part of the Imphal Valley, Thoubal is known for its agricultural productivity, particularly in rice cultivation. The district has a population of around 420,000 and is also known for its handloom industry.
Bishnupur
This district, situated in the southwestern part of the Imphal Valley, is famous for the Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in northeastern India. Bishnupur has a population of approximately 240,000 and is noted for its vibrant ecosystem and traditional fishing practices.
Churachandpur
Located in the southern hills, Churachandpur is a culturally rich district inhabited predominantly by the Kuki tribe. With a population of around 274,000, it is known for its scenic beauty and diverse cultural festivals.
Chandel
Bordering Myanmar, Chandel is known for its ethnic diversity, with a significant presence of the Naga and Kuki tribes. The district has a population of about 144,000 and is a key area for cross-border trade and cultural exchange.
Ukhrul
This northeastern district is the home of the Tangkhul Naga tribe. Ukhrul, with a population of around 183,000, is famous for its natural beauty, including the Shirui Lily, which is found only in this region.
Senapati
Situated in the northern part of Manipur, Senapati is predominantly inhabited by Naga tribes. The district has a population of about 480,000 and is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional practices.
Tamenglong
Known for its rugged terrain and dense forests, Tamenglong is located in the western part of Manipur. The district, with a population of around 140,000, is home to several Naga tribes and is noted for its biodiversity.
Kangpokpi
Created from parts of Senapati, Kangpokpi is known for its diverse population, including Kuki and Naga communities. The district focuses on agricultural development and has a growing population of approximately 193,000.
Jiribam
Located in the westernmost part of Manipur, Jiribam serves as a key transit point between Manipur and Assam. The district has a population of around 43,000 and is known for its strategic importance in connectivity and trade.
Pherzawl
A newly created district carved out of Churachandpur, Pherzawl focuses on agricultural development and rural infrastructure. The district is home to various tribal communities and is working towards improving its socio-economic indicators.
Noney
Formed from parts of Tamenglong, Noney is known for its picturesque landscapes and the Barak River. The district has a population of around 57,000 and is focused on developing its infrastructure and tourism potential.
Kamjong
Carved out of Ukhrul, Kamjong is predominantly inhabited by the Tangkhul Naga tribe. The district, with a population of about 45,000, is known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional festivals.
Tengnoupal
Created from parts of Chandel, Tengnoupal is a border district with a diverse ethnic composition. The district focuses on cross-border trade and cultural exchange, with a population of approximately 60,000.
Kakching
Formed from parts of Thoubal, Kakching is known for its agricultural productivity and cultural activities. The district has a population of around 135,000 and is rapidly developing its infrastructure.
Kangpokpi
Located in the northern part of the state, this district is home to various communities and focuses on agricultural development. It has a population of around 193,000.
Each district in Manipur contributes uniquely to the state's cultural diversity and economic development, reflecting the rich heritage and vibrant communities that define this northeastern Indian state.
Manipur
Manipur, a picturesque state in northeastern India, spans an area of approximately 22,327 square kilometres and is home to a population of around 2.7 million people, according to the 2011 Census. The state's capital, Imphal, is a hub of cultural and historical significance, known for landmarks such as the Kangla Fort and the Shri Govindajee Temple.
Manipur is characterised by its diverse topography, including the fertile Imphal Valley and the surrounding hills. The state is renowned for its natural beauty, highlighted by the Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in northeastern India, which is also famous for its phumdis (floating islands). The Keibul Lamjao National Park, located on the southern shore of the lake, is the only floating national park in the world and home to the endangered Sangai deer.
The state's population is a mosaic of ethnic groups, including the Meitei, who predominantly inhabit the central valley, and the Naga and Kuki tribes, who reside in the hills. This ethnic diversity is reflected in Manipur's rich cultural heritage, manifested in its traditional dance forms such as Manipuri dance, vibrant festivals like Yaoshang and Kut, and diverse handicrafts.
Economically, Manipur is primarily agrarian, with agriculture providing the mainstay of the state's economy. Major crops include rice, maize, pulses, and oilseeds. Handloom and handicrafts also play a vital role, with Manipur being one of India's leading producers of handloom textiles. The state is known for its intricate weaving and craftsmanship, particularly in the production of shawls, saris, and bamboo products.
Education in Manipur has seen significant progress, with a literacy rate of 79.85% as per the 2011 Census. The state is home to several reputable institutions, including Manipur University and the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Manipur, which contribute to higher education and research.
Manipur's infrastructure has been gradually improving, with developments in road connectivity and public services. The Imphal International Airport connects the state to major cities in India, facilitating trade and tourism.
History
Manipur, a state in northeastern India, has a rich and intricate history that spans several centuries, marked by periods of independence, conflict, and cultural evolution. The region was historically known as Kangleipak, and its documented history dates back to 33 AD with the coronation of King Pakhangba, the founder of the Ningthouja dynasty.
The Meitei kingdom, centred in the fertile Imphal Valley, emerged as a significant power in the region. By the 15th century, Manipur had established trade and cultural ties with neighbouring regions, including Assam, Burma (now Myanmar), and other parts of India. The spread of Hinduism in the 18th century under King Pamheiba, also known as Garibniwaj, profoundly influenced the cultural and religious landscape of Manipur.
In the late 19th century, Manipur faced challenges from British colonial expansion. The Anglo-Manipur War of 1891, a significant conflict, resulted in the defeat of the Manipuri forces and the subsequent annexation of Manipur by the British Empire. This marked the end of Manipur's sovereignty and its integration into British India as a princely state under British suzerainty.
Post-independence, Manipur merged with the Indian Union on 15th October 1949, following the signing of the Instrument of Accession. It initially became a Union Territory in 1956 and was later granted full statehood on 21st January 1972. This transition marked a new chapter in Manipur's political and administrative history, fostering greater self-governance and development.
Manipur has experienced periods of political unrest and insurgency, driven by demands for greater autonomy and ethnic tensions. However, concerted efforts by the government and local communities have been made to promote peace and development in the state.
Culturally, Manipur has made significant contributions to India's heritage. The classical dance form of Manipuri, renowned for its grace and spiritual themes, has gained international acclaim. Traditional festivals such as Lai Haraoba, Ningol Chakouba, and Cheiraoba celebrate the state's rich cultural heritage and community bonds.
Today, Manipur is recognised for its unique blend of tradition and modernity, balancing its historical legacy with aspirations for growth and development. The state's history is a testament to its resilience and enduring cultural richness.
Geography
Manipur, a state in northeastern India, is known for its diverse and picturesque geography, spanning an area of approximately 22,327 square kilometres. The state is bordered by Nagaland to the north, Assam to the west, Mizoram to the south, and Myanmar to the east. This strategic location makes Manipur a crucial link between India and Southeast Asia.
The state's topography is a blend of valleys and hills, with the central Imphal Valley being the most prominent. This valley, covering about 10% of the state's area, is the heartland of Manipur and houses the capital city, Imphal. The valley is known for its fertile soil, supporting extensive paddy fields and agricultural activities.
Surrounding the valley are hill ranges that rise to an average height of 1,500 metres. These hills are part of the eastern Himalayan range and are rich in biodiversity, housing numerous endemic species of flora and fauna. The highest peak in Manipur is Mount Iso, also known as Tenipu, which stands at 2,994 metres.
One of Manipur's most notable geographical features is Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in northeastern India. Loktak is famous for its phumdis (floating islands) and is a vital source of water, hydropower, and livelihood for the local population. The Keibul Lamjao National Park, located on the southern shore of the lake, is the world's only floating national park and home to the endangered Sangai deer.
Manipur's climate is largely influenced by its topography, with a temperate climate in the hills and a subtropical climate in the valleys. The state experiences three main seasons: summer (March to May), monsoon (June to September), and winter (October to February). The monsoon season brings heavy rainfall, particularly in the hilly regions, contributing to the state's lush greenery and rich agricultural output.
The state's river systems, including the Imphal, Iril, Nambul, and Barak rivers, play a crucial role in irrigation and agriculture. These rivers originate from the surrounding hills and flow into the valley, supporting the extensive rice paddies that dominate Manipur's agricultural landscape.
Manipur's forests cover about 77% of the state's total area, providing habitat for diverse wildlife and contributing to the state's ecological balance. These forests are a mix of tropical evergreen, semi-evergreen, and moist deciduous types, hosting a variety of timber and non-timber forest products.
Demographics
Manipur, a state in northeastern India, has a diverse demographic profile shaped by its rich cultural heritage and ethnic diversity. According to the 2011 Census, the state has a population of approximately 2.7 million people. The population density is about 122 persons per square kilometre, reflecting the state's mix of urban and rural settings.
The state's population is primarily composed of three major ethnic groups: the Meitei, the Naga, and the Kuki. The Meitei community, which constitutes around 53% of the population, predominantly inhabits the central Imphal Valley. The Meitei are primarily Hindus, with a significant number also practicing Sanamahism, an indigenous religion.
The hill regions of Manipur are mainly inhabited by the Naga and Kuki tribes. The Naga tribes, including the Tangkhul, Mao, and Maram, constitute approximately 24% of the population. They primarily reside in the northern and eastern hill districts and are predominantly Christian. The Kuki tribes, such as the Thadou, Hmar, and Paite, make up around 16% of the population, living mainly in the southern and western hill districts. They are also predominantly Christian.
Manipur is also home to a smaller but significant Muslim community known as the Meitei Pangals, who make up about 8% of the population. They mainly reside in the Imphal Valley and have a distinct cultural identity within the broader Meitei community.
The state boasts a high literacy rate of 79.85%, with a near-equal literacy rate between males and females, indicating significant progress in gender parity in education. Major educational institutions, such as Manipur University and the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Manipur, contribute to the state's educational advancement.
Imphal, the state capital, is the largest urban centre with a population of around 268,243. It serves as the economic and cultural hub of the state, hosting various cultural events, markets, and administrative functions. Other notable towns include Thoubal, Bishnupur, and Churachandpur, each contributing to the state's urban landscape.
Manipur's official languages are Meiteilon (Manipuri) and English, with Hindi and various tribal languages also spoken widely. Meiteilon, written in both Bengali and Meitei scripts, serves as the lingua franca among the different communities.
The state's demographic composition reflects its rich tapestry of cultures, traditions, and religions. This diversity is celebrated through numerous festivals such as Yaoshang (Holi), Christmas, and Cheiraoba (Manipuri New Year), which bring together different communities in vibrant and harmonious celebrations.
