How to get to Imphal

Located in a picturesque valley in northeastern India, the vibrant city of Imphal serves as the cultural hub and capital of the state of Manipur. If you are planning to visit Imphal, it is useful to know that despite its location amidst the mountains, the city is easily accessible to tourists thanks to regular air connectivity and a developed road network. We have compiled up-to-date information on how to reach Imphal by plane, bus, or car, so you can choose the optimal route for your journey.

The most convenient and fastest way to reach the capital of Manipur is to fly into Imphal International Airport (IMF). This bustling aviation hub serves over a million passengers annually and connects the region with the country's key metropolises. Thanks to regular flights, travellers can easily arrive here, avoiding tiring journeys along winding mountain roads.

Alternatively, you can consider flights to neighbouring cities such as Silchar or Dimapur, located approximately 120 kilometres away. However, arriving directly in Imphal remains the preferred choice, as the airport is located just a few kilometres from the centre and is excellently connected to the city's infrastructure.

Currently, there is no operational railway station within Imphal itself, so it is not possible to reach the city exclusively by train. Travellers will need to travel to one of the nearest major stations and then transfer to a bus or taxi to cover the remaining distance along the scenic mountain roads.

The main transit hub for those travelling by rail is the city of Dimapur. This is where the majority of trains from other regions of the country arrive. From Dimapur station, buses and private taxis run regularly to the capital of Manipur. As an alternative option, one can consider the route via the city of Silchar; however, the connection via Dimapur is considered the most convenient and popular among tourists.

Bus services reliably connect the capital of Manipur with neighbouring states, offering tourists scenic trips along winding mountain roads. The most popular route runs through Dimapur: buses cover the distance of 215 kilometres in approximately 7–9 hours. This road is the main artery connecting the city to the country's railway network and delights passengers with views of green valleys and rivers.

For travellers planning a trip from major transport hubs, there are services from the city of Guwahati. This is a long journey, often taking more than 12 hours, so many tourists prefer overnight sleeper buses. It is also convenient to travel from neighbouring Kohima — the journey from there is significantly shorter and usually takes about 4–5 hours.

The route from the city of Silchar remains in demand, where the road of about 260 kilometres takes from 10 to 12 hours depending on weather conditions. For greater comfort on such journeys, it is recommended to choose private express buses or the shared jeeps popular in this region, which navigate the terrain faster than state transport.

A road trip to Imphal will gift you with unforgettable views of green hills and valleys, and the most popular and scenic route is considered to be the road from the city of Dimapur. This path passes through the capital of the neighbouring state, the city of Kohima, and spans about 200 kilometres. The drive usually takes around 7–8 hours, allowing you to enjoy the beauty of the mountain landscapes of Northeast India.

An alternative option is a trip from the city of Silchar. The distance here is about 260 kilometres, but due to steep winding roads and difficult terrain, the driver will require more time and attention — the journey often takes more than 9–10 hours. For comfortable and safe movement in these directions, tourists can hire a private taxi or choose a seat in a shared jeep. Given the nature of local highways, an SUV would be the best choice of vehicle.

A trip to Imphal promises to be a rich adventure, full of cultural discoveries and natural beauty. To ensure your journey through this corner of India is as comfortable and surprise-free as possible, we have prepared a list of useful recommendations.

1. Clothing and Seasonality. The climate here is subtropical, so your wardrobe choice depends on the time of year. In summer (April to June), light cotton clothing is sufficient, but be sure to bring a raincoat or umbrella, as rains can start suddenly. In winter (November to February), the temperature can drop to +5°C, so a warm jacket and sweater will be absolutely necessary.
2. Transport Nuances. The most popular way to get around the city is by auto-rickshaw. It is important to remember that meters are rarely used here, so the price of the trip should be negotiated with the driver in advance, before boarding. For longer trips, you can hire a taxi for the whole day through your hotel.
3. Financial Matters. Major hotels and restaurants accept cards, but at street stalls and the famous "Ima Keithel" market, payments can only be made in cash. ATMs are available in the city, but they may not always be operational or may run out of cash, so it is best to carry a supply of rupees, especially in smaller denominations.
4. Health and Hygiene. As in many other regions of the country, drink only bottled water and avoid ice in drinks at street cafes. Since the region is rich in vegetation and humidity, be sure to use mosquito repellents, especially in the evening, to protect yourself from insect bites.
5. Language Barrier. The main language of communication is Manipuri (Meiteilon). English is widely spoken in the tourism sector, hotels, and government offices, so a basic knowledge of English will be sufficient for comfortable communication. The locals are friendly and often try to help, even if they do not speak the language well.
6. Rules of Conduct. When visiting Hindu temples, be sure to remove your shoes before entering. Clothing should be modest, covering shoulders and knees — this is a sign of respect for local traditions. It is also customary to ask for permission before photographing local residents.
7. What to Avoid. The Northeast of the country has strategic importance, so strictly avoid photographing military facilities, bridges, the airport, and police posts. This may cause unnecessary questions from security services. It is also not recommended to walk alone in unlit outskirts of the city late at night.
8. Important Document. Before travelling, be sure to check the current entry rules for the state of Manipur. Foreign tourists are often required to register at the local Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) upon arrival, while citizens of the country need a special pass (Inner Line Permit), which is best arranged in advance online or at the airport.

Following these simple rules will help you avoid minor inconveniences and focus on the main thing — enjoying the unique culture and hospitality of Manipur. Be open to new experiences, and the city will reciprocate.