Loktak Lake: Discover floating life of Manipur’s living lake
Manipur's Loktak Lake, a Ramsar-designated area and India's largest freshwater lake, is famous for its phumdis. These are floating islands made of organic matter and vegetation, which support a unique way of life. Loktak is at its best between October and March. The calm and pristine water, flocks of migratory birds, and the stabilised floating habitats turn it into a spectacular destination to explore. Read more to know further.
New Delhi: Manipur’s Loktak Lake, a Ramsar-designated area and India’s largest freshwater lake, is famous for its phumdis. These are floating islands made of organic matter and vegetation, which support a unique way of life. Loktak is at its best between October and March. The calm and pristine water, flocks of migratory birds, and the stabilised floating habitats turn it into a spectacular destination to explore. Here, crops grow, homes drift, and lives unfold over water.
From fish farms and floating schools to vibrant folklore and festivals, Loktak is a vibrant blend of nature and tradition. The lake is not just a travel destination; it’s an experience of coexistence where people and water move together in rhythm. For explorers and travellers who seek authenticity and tranquility, Loktak offers an extraordinary glimpse into a floating life. Delve deeper for more information.
Loktak Lake’s unique way of life
Phumdis, these floating islands of Loktak Lake, are the foundation of life here. These naturally formed islands, composed of decomposed plants, roots, and soil, are strong enough to support human settlement. The floating homes made on phumdis are known as phumsangs, which include kitchens, sleeping spaces, and miniature gardens. Almost 4,000 people live on these islands, creating a community that floats literally on water.
For their livelihood, the people on Loktak Lake practice fishing, and the sight of fishermen throwing nets at dawn is a spectacular sight to behold. Other than fishing, people on phumdis grow vegetables and rear fish in tiny enclosures made from bamboo. Locals show a perfect balance of tradition, resourcefulness and respect for nature.
Keibul Lamjao: Floating National Park
The Keibul Lamjao National Park, located on the southern edge of Loktak Lake, is the world’s only floating wildlife sanctuary where you can witness the Sangai deer. This endangered species is also known as Manipur’s dancing deer. The park is also home to migratory birds, otters, and wild boars, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
How to reach Loktak Lake
Loktak Lake is situated in the Bishnupur district, about 48 kilometres from the Manipur capital Imphal. Travellers can easily connect to the lake by road through taxis, which take about 1.5 hours, or buses from Imphal or Moirang town. The nearest airport is in Imphal, which is well-connected to major Indian cities. On the way to Loktak from Moirang, visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of paddy fields, hills, and get glimpses of village life.
Best time to visit
The perfect time to visit Loktak Lake is from October to March. During this period, the weather is cool and pleasant, and the water level stabilises. The mornings and evenings are magical as one can see mist rising from the water, soft sunlight dancing on the water, and silhouettes of fishermen rowing on a boat. Here, summers can be warm and humid, while the monsoon season from June to September often brings heavy rainfall and flooding.
Things to do at Loktak Lake
If you stay at a floating homestay on Loktak Lake, there are many interesting things to do. Here we go.
1. Stay in a floating homestay
A stay in a floating homestay is one of the most unique experiences you can have. Built on phumdis, these homestays offer the simple comforts of life and warm hospitality. Visitors can enjoy authentic, home-cooked Manipuri delicacies, spectacular sunrise views, and a chance to live on water like the locals.
2. Boat ride across Loktak Lake
To explore Loktak to the fullest, boat rides are the best way, particularly during early morning. At this golden hour, you can witness mirror-like reflections of the sky, filled with different hues, on the water while the sun rises or sinks.
3. Explore Sendra Island
Situated at the centre of Loktak Lake, Sendra Island offers panoramic views of the lake’s scattered phumdis. A simple resort and viewpoint here make it ideal for peaceful relaxation and photography.
4. Visit Thanga Village
Thanga, located close to the lake, is a perfect place for explorers to meet locals, learn about fishing traditions, and experience the culture. Another attraction is the Loktak Folklore Museum, which preserves the lake’s myths, tools, and heritage.
5. Birdwatching and wildlife spotting
From migratory ducks and herons to rare raptors, Loktak Lake becomes a paradise in winter for bird lovers. Exploring Keibul Lamjao early in the morning increases your chances of spotting the Sangai deer and other wildlife.
6. Visit nearby attractions
Moirang, a town of historical importance where the Indian National Army hoisted its flag during the freedom movement, is situated close to the lake. Visitors can walk around the INA Museum and explore local markets selling handwoven textiles and bamboo crafts.
Practical tips
Where to stay: Floating homestays near Thanga and Sendra or guesthouses around Moirang offer great accommodation.
What to eat: Fresh fish curry, local rice, and dishes like Singju should not be missed.
What to pack: Light woollens for evenings, sunblock, insect repellent, and binoculars for birdwatching.
Responsible travel: Avoid plastic, respect local customs, and do not disturb the phumdis or wildlife.
Loktak Lake is not just a destination for its scenic beauty. It’s a living ecosystem that highlights harmony between humans and nature, offering an immersive cultural experience. Whether you are enchanted by its peaceful charm, floating villages or its wildlife, Loktak Lake promises something unforgettable.