Top 8 Wildlife Sanctuary in Manipur You Must Explore

Manipur is referred to as the jewel of Northeast India and it is similarly famous for its rich biodiversity and picturesque landscapes. This state offers you a lot of opportunities to explore rare species and natural habitats.

Visiting a wildlife sanctuary in Manipur provides you a unique chance to witness animals and birds in their natural environment which makes it a must-visit destination for travellers who are looking for adventure and peace in one trip.

The green rainforests and beautiful hills of Manipur are home to several protected areas and each offers you unique experiences. Manipur’s sanctuaries present you a remarkable opportunity to connect with nature in its best form, whether you are a birdwatcher or a wildlife photographer.

1. Keibul Lamjao National Park

Keibul Lamjao National Park - Wildlife Sanctuary in Manipur

Spread across Loktak Lake, Keibul Lamjao National Park is famous for being the world’s sole floating national park. This national park is famous for endangered species like Asian golden cats, hog deer, flying foxes, civets and brow-antlered deer.

Travellers who are visiting this wildlife sanctuary in Manipur can enjoy guided boat tours, explore phumdis (floating biomass) and witness unique aquatic ecosystems.

Also Read: Top 10 Wildlife Sanctuaries in India for Nature and Wildlife Lovers

2. Sirohi National Park

Sirohi National Park - Wildlife Sanctuary in Manipur

Sirohi National Park is located in Ukhrul district and it is another gem among the wildlife sanctuary in Manipur. It hosts a diverse wildlife that include leopards, wild boars, mrs. humes, macaques and several hornbills.

The park’s dense forests and lush green hilly landscapes make it a perfect spot for trekkers and photographers. Sirohi offers visitors a chance to explore the famous spectacle of flowers blooming between the months of May and June.

3. Yangoupokpi Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary

Yangoupokpi Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary - Wildlife Sanctuary in Manipur

Yangoupokpi Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary stretches along the international boundary of India and Myanmar, making it a distinctive wildlife destination. Spread across the area of 185sq kilometres and it is a home to red pandas, Asian elephants, Malayan sun bears, Himalayan black bears and pied hornbills.

In addition to its wildlife, this sanctuary boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna which makes it the perfect place for wildlife and bird photographers.

4. Kailam Wildlife Sanctuary

Kailam Wildlife Sanctuary - Wildlife Sanctuary in Manipur

Kailam Wildlife Sanctuary stands out for its unique bamboo brakes and lush evergreen forests. It is also home to five various types of hornbills. Visitors to this sanctuary can encounter diverse wildlife such as barking deer, leopards, golden cats, marble cats, jackals and clouded leopards.

This wildlife sanctuary is unbelievably beautiful and offers the travellers a chance to spot rare and endangered bird species that are hard to find elsewhere in India.

Also Read: 11 Coldest Place in South India You Must Visit in 2025

5. Thinungei Bird Wildlife Sanctuary

Thinungei Bird Wildlife Sanctuary - Wildlife Sanctuary in Manipur

This wildlife sanctuary is one of its kind as it offers floating biomass and open waters and it provides home to many critically endangered species such as yellow breasted buntings.

This wildlife sanctuary is also home to ruddy shelducks, grebeses, lapwings, gulls and storks. Visiting this wildlife sanctuary in Manipur gives you a truly peaceful experience while enjoying the vibrant colours and songs of numerous bird species.

6. Khongjaingamba Ching Wildlife Sanctuary

Khongjaingamba Ching Wildlife Sanctuary - Wildlife Sanctuary in Manipur

This sanctuary also serves as a reserved forested area and is home to a number of flora and fauna that includes wild boars, large indian civets, kingfishers, kraits and shrews.

This wildlife sanctuary in Manipur is a must-visit for the people who are looking to experience untouched wilderness and witness rare species in their natural surroundings of Manipur.

7. Jiri Makru Wildlife Sanctuary

Less renowned but no less important, Jiri Makru Wildlife Sanctuary is a key destination for wildlife in Manipur. It is known for its dense evergreen forests and rich biodiversity as it shelters species like the clouded leopard, pythons, jackals, flying squirrels, hog badgers, great Indian hornbills, fishing cats, spotted lingsang and large Indian civet cats.

Travelling to this wildlife sanctuary in Manipur offers you a great picturesque backdrop and a quiet escape from rushed urban life while providing opportunities for birdwatching, trekking and nature photography.

Also Read: 7 Places to visit in Sundarbans National Park in 2025

8. Bunning Wildlife Sanctuary

Bunning Wildlife Sanctuary - Wildlife Sanctuary in Manipur

With its abundant foliage and serene setting, Bunning Wildlife Sanctuary provides you a perfect visit for wildlife enthusiasts. It is located in the Tamenglong district and this wildlife sanctuary in Manipur offers you an ideal habitat for a variety of bird species which makes it a paradise for birdwatchers.

This sanctuary provides a habitat for animals like barking deer, leopards, jackals, clouded leopards and golden cats. The diverse ecosystem of this sanctuary offers you peaceful nature walks.

31 Jungle Tours: Explore Manipur’s Wilderness with Guided Tours

31 Jungle Tours takes pride in creating customisable wildlife experiences in Manipur with years of expertise in organising guided tours. We always make sure that the visitors get a close look at the unique flora and fauna while enjoying a safe and comfortable journey in Manipur.

Our expert guides are knowledgeable about every wildlife sanctuary in Manipur and help you gain learningful insights as you navigate through the wilderness. Whether you are a solo traveller, a family, or a group of wildlife enthusiasts, 31 Jungle Tours tailors every trip so you get the best out of your journey.

Conclusion

Each wildlife sanctuary in Manipur gives you a unique ecosystem and diverse species to observe and allow you to connect closely with nature. Manipur’s wildlife sanctuaries promise you memorable adventures if you are a keen wildlife photographer or a nature lover.

Book your next adventure with 31 Jungle Tours to experience the beauty of a wildlife sanctuary in Manipur. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the natural treasures of Manipur, plan your visit today and create memories that will last a lifetime with 31 Jungle tours.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wildlife Sanctuary in Manipur

1. What are the must-visit wildlife sanctuaries in Manipur?

Manipur is home to several top wildlife sanctuaries that nature lovers should explore. Some must-visit sanctuaries include Keibul Lamjao National Park, Sirohi National Park, Yangoupokpi Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary, Kailam Wildlife Sanctuary, and Thinungei Bird Wildlife Sanctuary. Each offers a unique opportunity to observe rare species and enjoy Manipur’s rich biodiversity.

2. Which wildlife sanctuary in Manipur is famous for floating ecosystems?

Keibul Lamjao National Park is the world’s only floating national park, located on Loktak Lake. This unique sanctuary in Manipur is known for its phumdis (floating biomass) and is home to endangered species like the brow-antlered deer, Asian golden cats, and flying foxes.

3. Can I see rare birds in Manipur’s wildlife sanctuaries?

Yes, Manipur’s wildlife sanctuaries are perfect for birdwatchers. Thinungei Bird Wildlife Sanctuary, Kailam Wildlife Sanctuary, and Bunning Wildlife Sanctuary host several rare and endangered bird species, including hornbills, yellow-breasted buntings, ruddy shelducks, and grebes, making it a paradise for bird photography.

4. Which sanctuary in Manipur is ideal for trekking and photography?

Sirohi National Park and Jiri Makru Wildlife Sanctuary are ideal for trekking and nature photography. With dense forests, scenic hills, and abundant wildlife like leopards, macaques, clouded leopards, and golden cats, these sanctuaries offer travellers a peaceful and picturesque escape in Manipur.

5. Are there wildlife sanctuaries near the India-Myanmar border?

Yes, Yangoupokpi Lokchao Wildlife Sanctuary is located along the India-Myanmar border. Spanning 185 sq. km, it is home to rare species like red pandas, Asian elephants, Malayan sun bears, and Himalayan black bears, offering a unique wildlife experience in Manipur.

6. What animals can I expect to see in Manipur’s wildlife sanctuaries?

Manipur’s wildlife sanctuaries host diverse animals, including leopards, clouded leopards, jackals, barking deer, golden cats, civets, pythons, and flying squirrels. Each sanctuary provides a natural habitat to observe these animals safely in the wild.

7. Are there sanctuaries in Manipur suitable for a family visit?

Yes, wildlife sanctuaries like Keibul Lamjao National Park, Thinungei Bird Wildlife Sanctuary, and Bunning Wildlife Sanctuary are family-friendly. They offer guided tours, boat rides, and safe wildlife observation, making it a memorable and educational experience for children and adults alike.

8. When is the best time to visit wildlife sanctuaries in Manipur?

The best time to visit Manipur’s wildlife sanctuaries is from October to May. During these months, the weather is pleasant, and animals are more active. Birdwatchers can enjoy the vibrant migratory species at Thinungei Bird Wildlife Sanctuary, while trekkers can explore the lush green hills of Sirohi and Jiri Makru.

9. How can I explore Manipur’s wildlife safely?

To explore wildlife sanctuaries in Manipur safely, it’s best to hire local guides or join organised tours like 31 Jungle Tours. They provide knowledge about the flora and fauna, ensure safe wildlife spotting, and offer customised experiences, making your visit both enjoyable and secure.

10. Why should I visit wildlife sanctuaries in Manipur?

Visiting wildlife sanctuaries in Manipur allows travellers to witness rare animals and birds in their natural habitats, enjoy serene landscapes, and connect with nature. From floating national parks to dense forests, these sanctuaries offer unique experiences for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, photographers, and adventure seekers alike.