India is home to a plethora of natural wonders, and among them, Keibul Lamjao National Park stands out as a unique and ecologically significant destination. Located in the northeastern state of Manipur, Keibul Lamjao National Park is the world’s only floating national park, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, diverse flora and fauna, and fascinating cultural significance.
Overview:Keibul Lamjao National Park
Keibul Lamjao National Park is located in Loktak Lake, Northeast India’s largest freshwater lake, and covers an area of around 40 square kilometres. The existence of the phumdis – a unique floating mass of vegetation made of degraded organic matter, soil, and numerous types of plants capable of floating on water – makes this park absolutely unique.
These phumdis provide essential habitat for the critically endangered Manipur brow-antlered deer, colloquially known as the Sangai, which is the park’s flagship species and Manipur’s state animal.
Flora:
The park has a diverse and abundant vegetation, with floating phumdis sustaining a unique environment. Plants such as Eichhornia crassipes (water hyacinth), Phragmites karka (reed), and Saccharum munja (wild sugarcane) make up the majority of the phumdis.
Several bird species, including the rare and secretive spot-billed pelican and the threatened eastern white-necked crane, use these plants as a nesting site. Other water plants, shrubs, and trees found in the park include Humea elegans, Oryza rufipogon, and Phyllanthus reticulatus, which contribute to its biodiversity.
Fauna:
Keibul Lamjao National Park is known for its diverse wildlife, with the Manipur brow-antlered deer or Sangai being the most iconic species. This lovely deer, with its distinctive antler form and elegant look, is found solely in this area. A popular attraction for wildlife enthusiasts and environment lovers. Hog deer, sambar deer, wild boar, and common otter are among the other animal species present in the area.
Over 200 bird species have been reported in the park, including numerous rare and unique species like as the black kite, grey-headed fish eagle, and Burmese peacock-pheasant. The park is also home to a variety of reptiles, including the Indian python, common krait, and water monitor lizard, as well as other fish and amphibian species.
Conservation Efforts:
Keibul Lamjao National Park has been a conservation success story, playing a critical part in the recovery of the Manipur brow-antlered deer population, which was on the verge of extinction. The park is a Ramsar site, reflecting its worldwide significance as a wetland habitat. It has also been designated as a biodiversity hotspot and a national park to safeguard its unique flora and animals.
The neighbouring communities, particularly the indigenous Meitei people, have been actively involved in the park’s conservation efforts. With their traditional knowledge and sustainable practises playing a critical role in conserving this sensitive ecology.
Visiting Keibul Lamjao National Park:
Visiting Keibul Lamjao National Park is a unique experience, allowing you to explore the beauty of Loktak Lake and its floating islands. The best time to visit is during the dry season from November to April when the weather is pleasant. And the water levels are low, providing better chances of spotting wildlife.
The park can be accessed by road from Imphal, the capital city of Manipur, which is approximately 45 kilometers away. There are also boats available for hire from nearby villages to explore the park.
Wildlife spotting is a common activity at Keibul Lamjao National Park. Visitors may take a boat trip across the floating islands and look for the park’s primary feature, the Sangai deer. The Sangai is admired by wildlife enthusiasts for its beautiful movements and distinctive antler form. Aside from the Sangai, visitors may also see hog deer, sambar deer, wild boar, and a variety of bird species.
The cultural importance of Keibul National Park is another intriguing feature. The Meitei people have lived in harmony with nature for generations in the park. Visitors may learn about the Meitei people’s traditional wisdom and sustainable practises, who have been actively involved in the park’s conservation efforts.
It is critical to respect the park’s laws and regulations when visiting Keibul Lamjao National Park in order to preserve the delicate ecology. It is illegal to disturb the wildlife, pick flora, or throw trash in the park. Respecting the cultural practices of the local communities is also crucial.
Entry fees
Domestic tourists and visitors from SAARC countries pay 30 rupees for their tickets. Foreign tourists must pay 200 rupees. Foreigners pay more, as they do in most national parks. Children are charged 15 rupees for local tourists and 100 rupees for international visitors.
How to reach Keibul Lamjao National Park?
Located in Manipur, India and can be accessed by road or boat. Here are the details on how to reach the park:
By Road:
The nearest city to Keibul Lamjao National Park is Imphal, which is the capital city of Manipur. Imphal is well connected to major cities in India by road. From Imphal, the park is approximately 45 kilometers away. Visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus from Imphal to reach the park. The drive to the park is scenic, passing through beautiful landscapes and villages.
By Boat:
The park is situated in the Loktak Lake, which is the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India. Visitors can hire boats from nearby villages like Sendra or Moirang to reach the park. The boat ride through the floating islands and waterways of the lake is an enchanting experience, allowing visitors to witness the unique ecosystem of the park up close.
There are designated areas for visitors to explore, including the floating islands and Loktak Lake. It is important to follow the park’s rules and regulations, including not disturbing the wildlife, not plucking plants, and not throwing waste in the park, to ensure the conservation of this delicate ecosystem. Respecting the cultural practices of the local communities is also crucial during your visit.
Frequently asked questions
Why Keibul Lamjao National park is so famous?
Keibul Lamjao Park is the world’s only floating park. Any wildlife enthusiast must see the deer in this unique wetland environment. Other fauna can be viewed includes hog deer, otter, a variety of water fowls, and migrating birds, which are often visible from November to March.
Where is Keibul Lamjao National Park is located?
The Park is located in Manipur’s Bishnupur district.
Which is the worlds largest floating national park?
Keibul Lamjao National Park located on the Loktal lake.
What is Phumdi?
Phumdi is a floating mass of vegetation, primarily composed of water hyacinth, reed, and wild sugarcane, found in Keibul Lamjao National Park.
Where is the world first floating lake?
Bishnupur in the State of Manipur.
When Kaibul Lamjao national park is open for visitors?
Kaibul Lamjo National Park is open for tourist from 9.00 AM to 6.00PM