India is home to the world’s only floating national park, Keibul Lamjao National Park, located in the heart of Manipur’s Loktak Lake. This rare ecological marvel is not only a sanctuary for endangered species but also a symbol of harmony between nature and indigenous life. (Image: Pexels)
Keibul Lamjao National Park is built atop phumdis, which are floating masses of vegetation, soil, and organic matter. (Image: Pexels)
These phumdis float on Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, and shift with the seasons – rising during monsoon and settling in dry months. The park spans 40 square kilometers and is the only one of its kind globally. (Image: Pexels)
The park is also the last natural habitat of the Sangai deer (Cervus eldi eldi), also known as the dancing deer due to its delicate gait on the floating vegetation. This species is critically endangered and deeply woven into Manipuri culture, often regarded as a symbol of pride and identity. (Image: Pexels)
Keibul Lamjao is under consideration for World Heritage status due to its unique ecosystem and biodiversity. (Image: Pexels)
Local communities depend on the lake and phumdis for fishing, agriculture, and daily life, creating a delicate balance between conservation and livelihood. (Image: Pexels)
Besides the Sangai, the park hosts over 100 bird species, aquatic animals, and rare orchids, making it a hotspot for researchers and nature lovers. (Image: Pexels)
The best time to visit Keibul Lamjao National Park is November to March, when the weather is pleasant and wildlife sightings are frequent. (Image: Pexels)
The nearest airport is Imphal; local transport and guided tours are available. (Image: Pexels)
Keibul Lamjao isn’t just a national park; it’s a floating miracle. It offers a rare chance to witness a living, breathing ecosystem that defies conventional geography. (Image: Pexels)
