Manipur: Imphal City & Surrounding Areas
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Climate
Highest maximum temperarure of Imphal ?
By : Kh Meghachandra
It is often said that weather wise Manipur is quite an enjoyable place. However, with the onset of hot weather season, people in particular, scribes have been making queries about maximum temperatures. In Meteorology, March to May is warm weather season and from June onwards, we will have South west monsoon what we locally refer to as kumgi nong ( seasonal rain ). As per NDC, Pune record examined by me while on my tour to Pune, the highest maximum temperature between 1952 to 1990 is 35.6 c This record has been found beaten by record of 36.1 c on 28/04/1999.
Meteorological Office, Imphal was established on 19 Feb. 1952. I am a bit older than Met office, Imphal. This reminds me of Christopher Plummer 82 years old actor who after holding Oscar award for best supporting actor in the 84th Annual Academy Award function declared “ You are two years older than me, darling.”
In Meteorology air temperature at the earth’s surface is defined as the shade temperature measured in a louvred screen at a height of about 4 ft above ground. There is free flow of air inside and thermometers kept inside are protected from rain and direct sunlight. Air temperature though closely follow the ground temperature, differences are also possible due to nature of surface and horizontal transference of heat by wind. Highest temperature is recorded by maximum thermometer; it will remain unchanged till it is reset. After 24 hours, at 0830 hours observation, setting is to be done to enable to record highest for that day.
When the highest and lowest temperature in a day occurred? Generally, we find maximum in the afternoon period and minimum in the morning just after sunrise. Hence, for a day usually both maximum and minimum temperature can be read at 0830 hrs & 1730 hrs observations respectively. However it is possible to record minimum temperature at daytime and maximum temperature at night time and such cases are very rare.
Met office, Imphal has been doing eight synoptic observations daily, of which the 0830 hrs and 1730 hrs observations are major observations. It used to pass over phone the temperature records and rainfall data to AIR, Imphal , DDK, Imphal and Regional Met Centre (RMC), Guwahati or such information were collected by them including press RMC Guwahati after collection of such data from all Met Offices of Northeastern States, send them to DDK, Guwahati for 7.15 PM NE bulletin. It seems that AIR Imphal and DDK Imphal have not taken due care of as the information passed after 1730 hrs which seems to treat as belated. If it is so , it is really unfortunate. IMD under the Govt of India is for the weather services of the country. Maximum sometimes goes up even after 3 PM in the summer months according to the weather condition. However, efforts are on to make them available by 4 PM in all seasons.
In the weather report published in a local daily is seen that maximum temperature till 0830 hrs of 29th May is 35.6. It should be 34.7o which was recorded in the afternoon of 28th. This 34.1oc is shown till 0830 hrs of 29th and after that it has been set to record maximum for 29th and record for 29th is 35.6°c The highest temperature recorded by the maximum thermometer will remain stick to the value till setting is done. Hence Maximum temperature till 0830 hrs of 29th is 34.7°c.
In case of rainfall we need amount of rainfall date wise or for a period. We had been waiting to clarify this point for a long time through any media to clear the confusion over the public. We cannot treat rainfall like that of temperatures. In case of rainfall mainly, weatherman uses rainfall amount from 0830 hrs of a day to next day 0830 hrs as daily rainfall of the date. The rainfall on 29.05.12 was 15.4 mm. This is the amount of rainfall between 0830 hrs of 28.05.12 and 0830 hrs of 29.05.12. In other words, the rainfall for past 24 hrs ending on 0830 hrs of 29th May 2012 is 15.4 mm. However, if anybody like rainfall amount say from 0530 hrs to 0830 hrs or 1130 hrs or 1430 hrs or 1730 hrs etc, the same will be available. Now, let us see the high temperatures recorded by Met office, Imphal from March to September during 1952 to May 2012. India Meteorological Department (IMD) has tabulated mean values of temperatures using data from 1952 to 1980 and 1971 to 2000.
According to the first, the temperature 34.7°c on 28.05.12 is higher by 5.7°c and as per the 2nd one it is higher by 5.1°c. These are call departures from normal values. If another such tabulation of normal values of temperature be prepared using data from 1990 to 2011 or something based on latest data, we may get somewhat new values of normal temperatures. IMD will do it certainly and we have to wait till it comes out. As IMD has predicted timely arrival of South West Monsoon, let us somewhat settle for rain forgetting continuous high temperature days of May.
Manipur: IMPHAL CITY SURROUNDING AREAS
The capital of Manipur, Imphal is a bustling minimetropolis
situated at a height of 790 m. above the
sea level.
Shaheed Minar
The indomitable spirit of the patriotic Meitei and tribal martyrs who sacrificed their lives while fighting against the British in 1891, is commemorated by this tall Minar at Bir Tikendrajit Park in the heart of Imphal city.
Ima Market
A unique all women’s market, with more than 3000 “Imas” (mothers) who run the stalls. It is split into two sections on either side of a road. Vegetables, fruits, fishes and household groceries are sold in one section and exquisite handlooms and household tools in the other.
KANGLA
The seat of Manipur’s power till 1891, the historical embodiment of Manipuri Rulers and the people of Manipur, Kangla has a special place in the hearts and minds of the people of Manipur. The old Govindajee temple, outer and inner moat and other relics are perfect reflections of the rich art and architectural heritage of Manipur.
SHREE SHREE GOVINDAJI TEMPLE
Manipur Zoological Garden
The Manipur Zoological Garden at Iroisemba is only
6 kms. on the Imphal- Kangchup Road at the foot of
pine growing hillocks. Here, apart from various
endangered species, tourists will have an
opportunity to see the graceful brow-antlered deer
(Sangai), one of the rarest endangered species of
deer in the world, in sylvan surroundings.
Manipur State Museum
This interesting Museum near the Polo Ground, has a fairly good collection and display of Manipur’s tribal heritage and a collection of portraits of Manipur’s former rulers. Particularly interesting are the costumes, arms & ammunitions, relics and historical documents on display.
War Cemetery
Commemorating the memories of the British and Indian soldiers who died during the World War II, these War Cemeteries are managed by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Serene and well-maintained, the War Cemetery carry little stone markers and bronze plaques recording the sacrifices of those gallant soldiers.
Khonghampat Orchidarium
Located 10 kms. from Imphal on National Highway No. 2 is a Central Orchidarium spread over 200 acres and housing over 110 rare varieties of orchids, including dozens of endemic species. The peak blooming season is March-April.
Nupi Lal Memorial Complex
The complex is a tribute to the courageous Manipuri women who sacrificed their lives fighting for justice against the British on 12th December, 1939.
Mutua Museum
This Museum is a Cultural Complex located at Andro village, about 26 kms. from the capital. Here artifacts of the State and from all over the North-East are housed, such as pottery, rare coins, rare manuscripts of the state, paintings, basketries, bell metals, jewelleries, wood carving, etc. There are exact replicas of the houses of different tribes and ethnic groups of the state such as Poumai, Kabui, Meitei, Kuki and Tangkhul.
Red Hill (Lokpaching)
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Red Hill is a hillock about 16 kms. from Imphal on Tiddim Road NH - 150. It is a site where British and Japanese soldiers had fought a fierce battle during World War-II. War Veterans had constructed “India Peace Memorial”, a monument in memory of Japanese soldiers who died in the battle. It is also a place of pilgrimage for Japanese tourists. 27 kms. from Imphal on the Tiddim Road, is a picturesque town situated at the foot hills that rolls down to the valley. The 15th century Vishnu Temple built of peculiarly small bricks supposedly of Chinese influence during the reign of King Kiyamba is of historical importance. Bishnupur is also famous for its chiselled stoneware.
Loukoi Pat
This tiny lake located near the Tiddim Road on NH - 150 at
Bishnupur is a retreat for visitors from within and outside the
state. Boating facilities and the scenic beauty of the place is
mesmerising for the visitors.
Sadu Chiru Waterfall (Sadar Hills)
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About 20 Kms. from Imphal beside the Tiddim Road (NH-150) is a picturesque site famous for its perennial waterfall at a scenic foot hill. There are three waterfalls altogether. This is a newly opened tourist spot.
Kangchup (Sadar Hills)
Located 16 kms. from Imphal towards the west, is a healthy resort on the hills over-looking the Manipur valley. The scenery is picturesque and worth seeing. With the construction of Singda Dam here, the place has become one of the more popular picnic spots.
Keibul Lamjao National Park
The only floating National Park in the world, the Keibul Lamjao National Park located on the Loktak Lake is the last natural habitat of the “Sangai” (Rucervus eldii eldii), the dancing deer of Manipur. A glimpse of the deer in this unique wetland ecosystem is a must for any wildlife enthusiast. Other wildlife to be seen include: Hog Deer, Otter, a host of water fowls and migratory birds, the latter usually sighted during November to March. The Forest Department of Manipur maintains watch towers and two rest houses within the park.
Loktak Lake
Located 48 Kms. from Imphal, is the largest fresh water lake in India’s North - East. From the Tourist Bunglow set atop Sendra Island, visitors get a bird’s eye view of life on the Lake on small islands that are actually floating weeds associated with which are various aspects of life of the local inhabitants. The local dwellers live in the backdrop of the shimmering blue waters of the Lake, labyrinthine boat routes and colourful water plants. The Sendra Tourist Home with an attached Cafeteria is a sought after tourist spot. Boating and other water sports are organised here at Takmu Water Sports Complex.
Moirang
Located 45 kms. from Imphal, and situated near the Loktak lake, this town is one of the main centres of early Meitei folk culture. An ancient temple of the pre-Hindu deity, Lord Thangjing, is situated here. In the month of May, men and women, dressed in colourful traditional costumes sing and dance in honour of the Lord at the Moirang “Lai Haraoba”, a ritual dance festival held annually. This town also has a special place in the history of India’s Freedom Struggle. It was at Moirang that the flag of the Indian National Army was first unfurled on April 14, 1944.
The INA Museum
which has a collection of letters, photographs, badges of ranks and other war memorabilia reminds the visitors of the noble sacrifices made by the INA soldiers under the charismatic leadership of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose.
THOUBAL DISTRICT
Khongjom War Memorial
Khongjom War Memorial, Located 36 kms. from Imphal on the Indo- Myanmar road has an important historical significane. It was here that Major General Paona Brajabashi, one of the great warriors of Manipur proved his valor against the superior might of the invading British Army in 1891. The hillock at the foot of which he laid down his life in defence of the motherland, is reminiscent of the past heroic deeds of Manipuri warriors. A war memorial has been constructed atop Kheba hill. Khongjom Day is observed every year on 23rd April here.
Kakching Garden at Uyok Ching
A beautiful artificial garden on the way to Moreh, it has many exotic native flowers, herbs, orchids, etc. and is a must-visit for any domestic or foreign tourist.
Moreh
This is a busy commercial town on the Indo-Myanmar border, located at a distance of 110 kms. from Imphal. A shopping paradise for shoppers, sundry products ranging from electronics to daily consumables are available in plenty. This place holds importance for visiting tourists not only for being a border town but also for providing a unique opportunity for experiencing the different cultures, lifestyles of Myanmar through the neighbouring border town of Tamu which is only 5 kms. away across the border. There are numerous hotels
CHANDEL DISTRICT
Manipur Mountaineering Institute, Lamdan
Located about 44 kms. from Imphal, this Institute is the first of its kind in North East India. Adventure Sports training in Spidernet, Burma Bridge, Parasailing, Rock Climbing, Hill Trekking and many others are imparted here. The Institute is managed by the Manipur Mountaineering & Trekking Association (MMTA).
Churachandpur
It is located along the Tiddim Road, 60 kms. from Imphal and is one of the most beautiful places for sight seeing and holidaying. It is a bustling tribal town and district headquarter where products of local arts and crafts stand out in the local market. Kuki-Chin-Mizo groups are the dominant tribes of this district.
TAMENGLONG DISTRICT
Tamenglong
Deep gorges, mysterious caves, splendid waterfalls and exotic orchids are what one will find in the district headquarter of Tamenglong District. The Tharon Cave, Buning Meadow, Zilad Lakes and Barak Waterfalls are some of the sought after places of tourist interest. The Rongmei, Longmei and Zemei Nagas are the dominant tribes of Tamenglong. This beautiful place is located at a distance of 156 kms. from Imphal.
UKHRUL DISTRICT
Ukhrul
Ukhrul, the highest hill station of the state is located at a distance of 83 kms. to the east of Imphal. Ukhrul is the home of a colourful warrior tribe, the Tangkhul Nagas. The Tangkgul Nagas are of the oldest major tribes of Manipur. Shirui Hills and Khangkhui Lime Caves are interesting places for excursions located in this district.
shirui Hills These hills are also known for a unique species of land-lily, the Shirui Lily, which grows at a height of 8,500 ft. This beautiful lily which grows only in this part of Tangkhul elders enjoying rice beer the world, blooms during May-June.
SENAPATI DISTRICT
Senapati
It is the district headquarter of the northern hill district of Senapati located along the National Highway No-2. Some historical places which are unique in itself and are worth visiting are the old village of Yangkhullen, built on a steep hill; Makhel, the place where the Nagas are believed to have originated; the unexplored Haolaipai Supao Deikulu cave in Phuba Thapham; Dzuko valley; besides many others which still lay virgin, waiting to be explored. Mao, the oldest hill station in the State, is located in Senapati district on the Manipur - Nagaland border.
Dzuko Valley
It is a truly mesmerising green valley and easily the most pictureque place in Senapati District located bordering Nagaland. It is famous for the rare terrestrial lily called “ Dzuko Lily” and the enchanting snow clad valley during January & February. The highest peak of Manipur “Mount Iso” is also located behind this valley.
