Manipur

Manipur, the "jewel of India", is a small north-eastern state where an oval valley around Imphal is ringed by forested hills. It is known for Loktak lake with its floating islands, the graceful Manipuri classical dance, and as the place where polo in its modern form took shape.

Manipur was an independent kingdom with a long recorded history before it came under British influence after the Anglo-Manipur War of 1891. It merged with India in 1949, became a union territory and achieved statehood on 21 January 1972. Imphal saw major battles of the Second World War in 1944.

The central valley, drained by the Imphal and Manipur rivers, is surrounded by nine hill ranges. Loktak lake and Keibul Lamjao, the world's only floating national park, lie in the south of the valley.

Agriculture, handloom weaving – one of the largest in the north-east – and handicrafts support much of the population.

Meitei (Manipuri) is the official language, alongside many tribal languages of the Naga and Kuki-Zo communities. The Ras Lila of Manipuri dance, Thang-Ta martial art, Yaoshang (Holi) and Sangai festival are highlights.