2 Days in Loktak Lake for a Nature Trip

Loktak Lake is one of those places that feels untouched by time. The floating islands, called phumdis, and the serene waters make it a perfect spot to unwind and connect with nature. I remember my first boat ride here, gliding past the unique circular fishing nets and spotting the rare sangai deer. It's a place that stays with you long after you leave.

Manipur, manipur
2 Days
Nature
Custom Trip

Trip Highlights

Boat ride through the floating phumdis
Spotting the endangered sangai deer at Keibul Lamjao National Park
Watching the sunset over the lake with the fishermen at work
Exploring the Sendra Island viewpoint for panoramic views

Best Time to Visit

OctoberMarch

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Day 1

Day 1 in Loktak Lake

Start your Loktak Lake adventure with its most iconic sights, from the floating islands to the rare wildlife, and soak in the serene beauty of Northeast India's largest freshwater lake.

Activities

Visit Keibul Lamjao National Park
Visit Keibul Lamjao National Park

Begin your day with a trip to the world's only floating national park, home to the endangered Sangai deer. Take a boat ride through the park's unique phumdis (floating vegetation) and keep an eye out for other wildlife like waterfowl and otters. The early morning light makes for great photography.

Keibul Lamjao National Park, Loktak Lake7:00 AM - 10:00 AM (best for wildlife spotting)INR 500-1000 (includes boat ride and guide)
Tips:
  • Wear comfortable shoes and light clothing.
  • Carry binoculars for better wildlife viewing.
Explore Sendra Island
Explore Sendra Island

Head to Sendra Island for panoramic views of Loktak Lake. The island has a viewpoint that lets you see the vast expanse of the lake dotted with phumdis. There's a small café here where you can relax with a cup of tea while taking in the scenery.

Sendra Island, Loktak Lake11:00 AM - 1:00 PM (before the midday heat)INR 200-500 (includes boat ride and entry fee)
Tips:
  • Try the local black tea at the café.
  • Don’t forget your camera—the views are stunning.
Boat Ride to Phumdis and Local Villages

In the afternoon, take a longer boat ride to explore the floating phumdis and nearby fishing villages. You’ll see how locals live on these unique islands and even visit a traditional fisherman’s hut. It’s a great way to understand the lake’s ecosystem and culture.

Loktak Lake, near Sendra Island3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (cooler part of the day)INR 800-1500 (depending on boat size and route)
Tips:
  • Bargain politely for boat rides.
  • Carry small change for tips or village visits.

Must Try Foods

Eromba (fish stew with vegetables)
Singju (Manipuri salad with local herbs)
Ngari (fermented fish)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Imphal Railway Station (about 50 km, 1.5 hours by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Moirang Bus Stand (15 km, 30 minutes by shared taxi or bus)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Cabs are available from Imphal and Moirang, but it’s best to book in advance for full-day trips.

No destinations found for this itinerary

Day 2

Loktak Lake Hidden Gems

Dive deeper into Loktak Lake's lesser-known wonders, from floating huts to serene viewpoints and authentic Manipuri flavors.

Activities

Sunrise at Thanga Island

Wake up early for a peaceful boat ride to Thanga Island, where locals start their day fishing. The sunrise over the phumdis (floating islands) is magical, casting golden reflections on the water. Wander through the island's narrow paths, watching villagers go about their morning routines.

Thanga Island, Loktak Lake5:30 AM - 8:30 AM (best light)₹500-800 (boat ride)
Tips:
  • Bring a light jacket—mornings can be chilly on the water
  • Ask boat operators to show you the smaller, hidden phumdis
Visit the Loktak Floating Huts

These unique fisherman huts built on phumdis are a marvel of local ingenuity. Some families welcome visitors to see how they live on these buoyant islands. You'll learn how they fish, cook, and even grow vegetables on these organic rafts.

Southern clusters of phumdis, Loktak Lake9:30 AM - 11:00 AM (after morning chores)₹200-300 (small donation to hosts)
Tips:
  • Remove shoes before entering huts
  • Try the smoked fish if offered—it's a local specialty
Ithing Eco Park & Viewpoint

For the best panoramic views of Loktak, head to this quiet park on the lake's western shore. The wooden watchtower gives you a 360° view of the shimmering lake dotted with phumdis. It's especially beautiful in late afternoon light when fishermen start returning home.

Ithing Eco Park, near Ningthoukhong4:00 PM - 5:30 PM (golden hour)₹50 entry fee
Tips:
  • Binoculars help spot migratory birds
  • The park's small café serves excellent Manipuri tea

Must Try Foods

Eromba (fermented fish with veggies)
Singju (Manipuri salad with perilla seeds)
Kanghou (smoked pork with bamboo shoots)

Transportation

Nearest Railway Station
Imphal Railway Station (45km, 1.5 hours by cab)
Nearest Bus Stop
Moirang Bus Stand (12km, shared autos available every 30 mins)
Metro Station
Not available
Cab Availability
Shared cabs available from Moirang; private cabs can be booked through hotels

Travel Tips

Start your day early to avoid the afternoon heat and catch the best light for photos
Pack light snacks and water as options around the lake are limited
Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to walk around Sendra Island
Try the local fish dishes at the small eateries near the lake – they’re fresh and delicious

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