NATIONAL PARKS OF INDIA

Keibul Lamjao National Park is believed to be the only floating national park in the world. The park is located in Bishnupur district of Manipur. The total area of the park is approximately 40 sq km.

About the park
It was declared a national park in 1977. It is nestled on the southern shore of the Loktak Lake, which is the largest lake in the entire world. The lake has Phumdis or the floating islands. These floating islands give the impression of the park as floating on the Loktak Lake.

Fauna
The brow-antlered deer (sangai deer) is an important animal of Keibul Lamjao National Park. It is also popularly referred to as dancing deer and has been the inspiration behind the Manipuri traditional dance. The other animals of the reserve include clouded leopard, Hog deer, panthers, Assamese macaques, Asian golden cat, Malayan bear, black bear and so on. Several reptile and bird species are found here.

Flora
About eighty percent of the park's vegetation is submerged. The park primarily comprises of floating marshes, also known as phumdi. The important floras of the place are Khoimom Saccharum munja, sing kambong Zizania latifolia, lilhar Polygonum perfoliatum, etc.

Transport
The nearest airport is located at Imphal (48 km.). From Imphal one can reach the reserve by private vehicle or bus. Imphal is well connected with Silchar through NH 53 and with Guwahati through NH 39. The nearest railhead is at Dimapur (215 km.)

Tourist tips
Ideal accommodation can be availed at the government tourist bungalow located on the Sendra Island in Loktak Lake. Certain rest houses are available at Phubala. A hotel is also maintained by the Tourism Department of Manipur Government for the tourists. The visitors can also visit the observation tower on top of Chingjao Hill to get a panoramic view of the park. No alcohols are allowed inside the reserve.

Tourist information
Address: Keibul Lamjao National Park, Phubala, Manipur 795132.
Ideal months to visit: October to March
Best time to visit: 6 - 10 am and 3.30 - 6 pm
Major tourist attraction: Loktak Lake, floating islands, clouded leopards and sangai or the dancing deer.