
Festivals of Manipur
Experience the vibrant celebrations that showcase Manipur's rich cultural heritage and traditions
Celebrating Manipur's Cultural Heritage
Manipur's festivals are vibrant expressions of its rich cultural tapestry, reflecting the state's diverse ethnic communities and their unique traditions. Throughout the year, these celebrations bring together music, dance, rituals, and feasts that showcase the spiritual and cultural essence of Manipuri life.
From the state-wide Sangai Festival that promotes tourism to the religious observances of Cheiraoba (Manipuri New Year) and the traditional Lai Haraoba, these festivals offer visitors a chance to experience the authentic culture of Manipur. Each celebration has its own significance, rituals, and customs that have been preserved through generations.
Explore the calendar of Manipuri festivals below and plan your visit to coincide with these colorful celebrations for an unforgettable cultural experience.
Major Festivals
Sangai Festival
Manipur's biggest tourism festival celebrating the state's rich cultural heritage, indigenous sports, cuisines, and handloom & handicrafts.
Cheiraoba (Manipuri New Year)
The Manipuri New Year celebration marked by family gatherings, special feasts, and hill climbing to seek blessings for the coming year.
Lai Haraoba
An ancient ritual festival celebrating the creation of the universe and pleasing the traditional deities (Umang Lai) through dance, music, and rituals.
Shirui Lily Festival
A celebration of the rare Shirui Lily flower that grows only in the Shirui Hills of Ukhrul district, featuring music, cultural shows, and outdoor activities.
Festivals by Season
Lui-Ngai-Ni
A seed-sowing festival celebrated by the Naga tribes of Manipur, marking the beginning of the agricultural season with cultural performances and community feasts.
Festival Calendar
Plan your visit to Manipur around these cultural celebrations
Q1January - March
- Lui-Ngai-Ni
February 14-15
- Gaan-Ngai
December-January
- Dol Jatra (Holi)
March (full moon day of Phalguna month)
Q2April - June
- Cheiraoba (Manipuri New Year)
April (first day of Sajibu month in Manipuri calendar)
- Lai Haraoba
April-May
- Shirui Lily Festival
May 15-19
- Kang (Rath Yatra)
June-July (during Ashadha month)
Q3July - September
- Kang (Rath Yatra)
June-July (during Ashadha month)
- Heikru Hidongba
September (11th day of Langban month)
Q4October - December
- Sangai Festival
November 21-30
- Ningol Chakouba
November (second day of Hiyangei month)
- Chavang Kut
November 1
- Mera Houchongba
October (during Mera month)
- Gaan-Ngai
December-January