😎 Swap City Life for Country Life Easily Here

Hey explorer,

We were returning to Eastern India from Odisha a couple of days back and thought of visiting a few popular cities on our way back to the most beautiful part of the country, Eastern India.

Although cities gave us a new travel perspective, we wanted some green space after living in the fast culture for a few days. I mean, who don't?

That's when we started looking for a place that's easier to swap our lifestyle - city to country and vice-versa. So, we visited Ukhrul in Manipur and man - it is beautiful with nature and busy as a town.

Let's see why Ukhrul should steal a place on your bucket list.

Why Ukhrul?

Let's accept it - people hate their country lifestyle and move to the city, and the same person goes in search of nature to get relief from bustling city life. Remember how these situations made us feel like we wanted a place where both city and nature environments remain in harmony?

With rolling hills giving the fresh air and clean rivers breaking the green barrier, the town amid the tall hills and the warm and friendly locals creates the best space to spend time in. 

One such place is Ukhrul. It lets you swap your country life with city life and city life with country life without having to travel for hundreds of kilometres. 

Overview

• History

Ukhrul is a town with roots connected to indigenous cultures and ancient traditions. People lived here for centuries, with historical records dating back to the Tangkhul Naga tribe, the predominant community in Ukhrul. 

The Tangkhul Naga tribe, with its deep-rooted traditions, has played a pivotal role in shaping Ukhrul's history. Over the years, the community has preserved its unique customs, rituals, and folklore. 

• Geography

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Manipur, Ukhrul is a picturesque town decorated with rolling hills, green landscapes, deep valleys, and rushing rivers, captivating visitors with breathtaking panorama. 

The town's elevation contributes to its pleasant climate with rich flora and fauna, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of urban life. The Shirui Hills add to the town's allure. 

• Local Culture

The Tangkhul Naga tribe culture takes you into their age-old traditions. Each festival people celebrate here shows the community's connection with nature, spirituality, and ancestral heritage. 

While the Hornbill and Chumpha Festivals are a few well-celebrated, art and craft are also essential parts of Manipuri culture, with complex hand-made shawls, traditional attire, and unique tribal jewellery exhibiting the skills of the local artisans.

• Language Used

Tangkhul, the native language of the Tangkhul Naga tribe, echoes through the hills of Ukhrul. It is a Tibeto-Burman language and an essential part of the cultural identity of this unexplored destination. 

Also, people speak both English and Manipuri in more urbanized areas. Yet, using some local phrases of Tangkhul in your conversations adds charm to your interactions with the locals.

• Climatic Conditions

Ukhrul experiences a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers are mild and pleasant, with mild temperatures. From June to September is the monsoon season that covers the hills in green but can also lead to occasional heavy rainfall. 

From November to February, winters can be chilly, with temperatures dropping to around 4 degrees Celsius. March to May and October to November are often considered the best times to visit.

Discovery Checklist

Must-Do Things

• Immerse in Local Festivals and Traditions

Participate in energetic festivals that showcase the Tangkhul culture. The Hornbill Festival and Chumpha Festival celebrated with traditional dances, folk music, and colourful attire, are a must-attend. 

• Explore Hidden Trails and Panoramic Views

Lace up your walking shoes and explore the lesser-known trails that curl through the hills surrounding Ukhrul. They give you a break from the hustle and bustle while letting you enjoy the breathtaking views.

• Visit Ancient Caves and Historical Sites

Ukhrul is home to ancient caves like Khangkhui Mangsor Cave, which holds historical significance associated with local legends. Explore one of these archaeological remnants that dot the landscape.

Places to Visit Nearby

• Shirui Hills

Venture to the breathtaking Shirui Hills away at 11.3 km. It is known for the Shirui Lily blooming here, which is hardly available in other parts of the country. Enjoy some refreshing views on your way up the hill. 

• Nillai Tea Estate

Take a short trip of 19 km to the Nillai Tea Estate, where acres of tea plantations carpet the hillsides. The estate offers guided tours, providing insights into the BTS of India's most consumed beverage. 

• Hundung Mangva Cave

At a 5 km distance, explore the mystical Hundung Mangva Cave, an ancient cave system with stalactite and stalagmite formations. The cave holds cultural significance, and people often use it as a spiritual site. 

Must Buy Things

• Handicrafts

Ukhrul is famous for its handwoven clothes and handicrafts, each telling a unique story through complex designs and vibrant colours. From cloths to tribal jewellery, each piece reflects the artistry and cultural heritage.

• Organic Honey

Ukhrul is known for its organic honey, harvested from the hills that cover the town. Buy one of these golden nectar bottles, not only as a sweet souvenir but also to reap the benefits of the pure flavours of the region.

Travel Itinerary

Transportation

Getting to Ukhrul is an adventure, with the journey adding to the anticipation of exploring this hidden gem. The primary modes of transportation include:

• By Road

Ukhrul is well connected by road, and the most common route is from Imphal, the capital of Manipur. The road journey provides a glimpse into the changing terrain, from the plains of Imphal to the hilly landscapes of Ukhrul.

• Local Transportation

Once in Ukhrul, local transportation options include shared taxis and auto-rickshaws for convenient travel within the town. You might want to hire a jeep or local taxi to explore the surrounding areas. 

Imphal International Airport (IATA: IMF) is the nearest airport to Ukhrul in Manipur. You can then take an 83 km road trip to reach Ukhrul by road. 

While Manipur does not have a railway station, the nearest railway station to Manipur is in Dimapur, Nagaland. However, reaching Ukhrul from Dimapur would involve a road journey. 

Accommodation

Ukhrul offers various accommodation options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Yet, the prices of hotels are to be disclosed, and booking options online, particularly in this remote town, are limited. 

So, check out the official webpage of Ukhrul District below to contact the available hotel operators. 

Click here for accommodation options in Ukhrul.  

Best Hotels to Eat Nearby

The food choices in Ukhrul are a delightful blend of local flavours and traditional dishes. Here are some recommended eateries to satisfy your taste buds:

DownTown Cafe - Best for all types of foods. 
The Undercroft - Best for non-veg items. 
Food Inn - Best for chat items.

Popular Food

• Thukpa: Thukpa is a noodle soup that reflects the influence of Tibetan cuisine. The locals enjoy it more, especially during colder months.

• Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoots: It is a smoked meat combined with the unique flavour of bamboo shoots. It is one of the main dishes in Tangkhul cuisine. 

• Eromba: Eromba is a fermented fish stew. It is a flavorful dish highlighting local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Travel Tips

• Enjoy Local Customs: Respect the cultural nuances of the Tangkhul Naga tribe. Seek permission before taking photographs, especially during festivals and religious rituals.

• Bring Cash: While some places may accept cards, carry some cash with you, especially when venturing into more remote areas.

• Camera Gear: Every corner in Ukhrul is beautiful and scenic. So, carry a camera with you to capture the moments. 

Safety Tips

• Weather Preparedness: Be prepared for changing weather conditions, especially when planning for trekking or exploring outdoor areas. Carry a light jacket and rain gear.

• Respect Local Wildlife: Be mindful of the local wildlife on nature trails. Maintain a safe distance and avoid feeding animals.

• Health Precautions: Carry simple medications, including those for altitude sickness, and stay hydrated, especially if this is your first time trekking. 

Travel Expenses

Being one of the remote towns, Ukhrul is known for being a budget-friendly destination. But considering the overall expenses, including food, local transportation, lodging, and other charges, you might need ₹2,000 to ₹3,000 a day for one person.

Conclusion

Ukhrul is one of the remote towns sitting in the scenic beauty of Manipal. While the green atmosphere and waking up to the chilly mornings make it an unexplored tourist destination, the effortless shift from town to country life makes this town more attractive and special. Or do you want to enjoy both the city and nature atmosphere simultaneously? Ukhrul is your pick.