Churachandpur
Churachandpur is tribal towns known for its local handicrafts which are available in abundance and is the district headquarters. Best period to visit this place is September to February. Monsoon is heavy and leads to landslide. Landslides are a common phenomenon in the in rainy season and road blockades are also cleared quite fast.
Churachandpur in Manipur is truly an island of peace, tranquility, prosperity and progress due to its people. There are 20 to 30 tribes, each with their different dialects and languages living together in noticeable size following their own religion and custom. Thus it makes this place a colourful cosmopolitan town. Churachandpur is also known as Lamka, called by the locals is a place where one can find all the communities like Kuki, Mizo, Naga and Zomi ethnic groups. Dresses and handicrafts available here are all beautiful and is found in vibrant colors.
Excursion around Churachandpur to the homeland of tribes, the handicraft market and Tonglon cave are important tourist attraction. Nearly 32 kilometers from Churachandpur is the Tonglon cave, an important tourist attraction. This is a must visit site.
History of Churachandpur
Historically speaking, this district takes its name from Sir Churachand Singh (1886-1941) who was one of the former Rajas (King) of Manipur.
It is intriguing to know that earlier this district was known as Manipur South District which came into existence in 1969. Until then, Manipur was considered as a single district with a total of 10 sub-divisions.
However, it was on 12th November 1969, that it was further dissected into 5 districts and a total of 25 sub-divisions. With this, Churachandpur Sub-Division along with 15 hill villages of Jiribam Sub-Divison were used to form South District of Manipur.
Then in the early 1980s, the name of this district was completely changed to Churachandpur district.
Major Attractions in and Around Churachandpur
1. Khuga Dam. This dam has been built in recent years and is located in the south of the town. The construction work started in 1983. However, it was overlooked for some years and resumed in 2002. And then, in 2010, Sonia Gandhi inaugurated the dam.
2. Tapaimukh. This place is one of the most amazing places to visit and explore. An apt spot for people who love to stroll in and around nature! The Tapaimukh is a concoction of two words which are Tipai meaning river and Mukh meaning mouth. This picturesque place is surrounded by a lush green fabric of the gorgeous nature; all the more reason for you to visit here.
3. Tribal Museum. If you love history then the Tribal Museum is the place to visit and see what all there is to this brilliant travel destination. However, though this place is a very huge museum it has got a very decent collection of artefacts which the tourists simply love to see.
4. Loktak Lake. Loktak Lake is simply one of the most amazing places to visit with your loved ones. The immense aura of this place lets you wonder and contemplate about nature. Moreover, did you know that this lake is also one of the freshwater lakes in the world?
5. INA Museum. This museum has been specifically dedicated to the Second World War! Here, you will be finding relics of war which date back to 1944 and include various arms and ammunition like bayonets which have been put on a display.