There are some destinations that leave a lasting impression not because of the number of animals you see, but because of the uniqueness of the landscape itself. Keibul Lamjao National Park, situated in the beautiful state of Manipur, is one such place. During my UPSC preparation, I often came across references to this remarkable national park—the world’s only floating national park. Ever since then, it had remained on my travel bucket list.
The opportunity finally came in early 2020, when I travelled to Manipur to witness this extraordinary ecosystem and, if fortune favoured, catch a glimpse of its most celebrated resident—the graceful Sangai Deer.
Journey to the Floating Paradise
Our journey began from Guwahati, from where we boarded a flight to Imphal. The flight takes roughly an hour, making it one of the most convenient ways to reach Manipur. As the aircraft descended into the picturesque Imphal Valley surrounded by green hills, it became evident why this northeastern state is often described as one of India’s hidden gems.
From Imphal, Keibul Lamjao National Park is located approximately 40 kilometres away, a drive of about an hour through peaceful countryside and traditional Manipuri villages. Unlike many national parks where the thrill begins only after entering the forest, the journey itself offers a glimpse into the simple lifestyle and scenic beauty of the region.
Loktak Lake – The Lifeline of Manipur
Keibul Lamjao National Park is inseparable from the magnificent Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India. Spread across hundreds of square kilometres, Loktak is not merely a scenic attraction—it is the ecological and economic lifeline of Manipur.
Thousands of families depend upon the lake for fishing, while its waters are extensively used for irrigation and hydroelectric power generation. The lake supports an astonishing diversity of aquatic plants, birds and fish, making it one of the most important wetland ecosystems in South Asia.
Recognising its immense ecological significance, Loktak Lake has been designated as a Ramsar Site, a wetland of international importance. However, despite this recognition, the lake today faces numerous challenges, including pollution, encroachment, altered water levels due to the Ithai Barrage, invasive vegetation and unsustainable exploitation of its natural resources. These environmental pressures have also directly impacted the fragile ecosystem of Keibul Lamjao National Park.
The Floating National Park
What makes Keibul Lamjao unique is the presence of Phumdis—large masses of decomposed vegetation, soil and organic matter that float on the surface of Loktak Lake.
Unlike floating islands elsewhere in the world, these phumdis are remarkably thick. In many places they are strong enough to support grasses, shrubs and even small trees. Standing upon them is an unforgettable experience. The sensation is unlike walking on firm ground; with every step, the earth gently moves beneath your feet, reminding you that you are literally standing on a floating ecosystem.
This extraordinary landscape creates the illusion of endless floating meadows stretching across the lake—a sight that cannot be experienced anywhere else in the world.
The park covers an area of around 40 square kilometres and represents one of the rarest wetland ecosystems on Earth.
In Search of the Dancing Deer
The greatest attraction of Keibul Lamjao National Park is undoubtedly the Sangai Deer (Rucervus eldii eldii), affectionately known as the Dancing Deer of Manipur.
The Sangai is found nowhere else in the wild except in this national park, making it one of India’s most remarkable endemic mammals. It is also the State Animal of Manipur.
Its nickname, the “Dancing Deer”, comes from its elegant gait. As the deer walks across the soft and spongy phumdis, it carefully places each hoof, giving the impression of dancing across the floating grasslands.
Observing a Sangai in its natural habitat is an unforgettable experience. Naturally shy and extremely cautious, these deer often remain hidden among the tall grasses. Patience and silence are rewarded, and even a brief sighting feels like a privilege.
A Fragile Ecosystem
Keibul Lamjao is much more than a sanctuary for the Sangai. It is home to several mammals, reptiles, amphibians and hundreds of bird species, including many migratory birds that visit Loktak Lake during winter.
Yet this remarkable ecosystem remains extremely fragile.
Changes in water levels caused by human interventions have affected the natural life cycle of the phumdis. Traditionally, these floating masses would settle on the lake bed during the dry season, absorbing nutrients before floating again as water levels rose. Continuous high water levels have disrupted this natural process, leading to thinning and weakening of the phumdis.
For the Sangai, whose very existence depends upon these floating meadows, this poses a significant conservation challenge.
Climate change, habitat degradation, fishing pressure and increasing human activities around the lake further threaten the park’s ecological balance. Thanks to sustained conservation efforts by the Forest Department, local communities and conservation organisations, the Sangai population has shown encouraging signs of recovery over the past few decades, offering hope for the future.
Beyond Wildlife
One of the most memorable aspects of visiting Keibul Lamjao is the serenity of the landscape. Unlike many popular wildlife destinations that witness heavy tourist traffic, this park still retains an atmosphere of tranquillity.
Watching the endless floating grasslands merge seamlessly with the shimmering waters of Loktak Lake while fishing boats quietly glide across the horizon creates an almost dreamlike setting.
Nearby villages built around the lake also provide an opportunity to understand the close relationship between the local communities and this unique ecosystem. For generations, the people of Manipur have lived in harmony with Loktak Lake, depending upon it for food, livelihood and cultural identity.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Keibul Lamjao National Park is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are relatively better. Winter also brings several migratory birds to Loktak Lake, making it an excellent destination for birdwatchers and photographers.
Travel Information
- Nearest Airport: Imphal International Airport (about 40 km)
- Nearest Railway Station: Dimapur (Nagaland), though most visitors prefer travelling by air
- Road Connectivity: Excellent road connectivity from Imphal
- Ideal Duration: Half-day for the national park, with an additional day to explore Loktak Lake and nearby attractions such as Sendra Island.
Final Thoughts
Keibul Lamjao National Park is not a destination that overwhelms visitors with dramatic tiger sightings or massive herds of wildlife. Instead, it offers something far rarer—a chance to witness one of the most extraordinary ecosystems on our planet.
Standing on the floating phumdis, watching the calm waters of Loktak Lake stretch into the horizon and searching for the elusive Sangai reminded me that nature often expresses its beauty in quiet, understated ways.
For wildlife enthusiasts, conservationists, photographers and travellers seeking experiences beyond the usual tourist circuit, Keibul Lamjao is a destination that deserves a place on every travel itinerary. It is a living reminder that some of Earth’s greatest natural wonders are also among its most fragile—and preserving them is our shared responsibility.
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