Kangla fort Travel Guide

Kangla in Imphal was the seat of kingly governance starting from the rule of the legendary God-king, Nongda Lairen Pakhangba in 33A.D to Maharaj Kulachandra in 1891A.D. Standing as Manipur's pride, the fort was captured by the British and post independence, it was occupied by the Assam Rifles till 2004. The fort is reminiscent of Manipur's rich history and speaks proudly of its culture and traditions.Located close to the Imphal River, the Kangla Fort is a symbol of the state's glory. It was improvised and beautified by several successive kings. At present the fort is a major tourist attraction in the state and is immensely admired by art-lovers and history-buffs, as the Kangla Fort holds immense historical, religious and archaeological importance.On 20 November 2004, the fort was handed by Assam Rifles to the state Governmnet of Manipur in presence of the then Prime Minister of India, Manmohan Singh.It has since then been under constant renovation to bring back its lost heritage.Spanning nearly 236.84acres of land, the Manipur Government has declared it as a protected area under the provision of “The Manipur Ancient and Historical Monument and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1976.

The Kangla Fort or Kangla Palace is a symbol of Manipur's glory. The word ‘Kangla’ means dry land in Manipuri or Meetei language. Kangla was the ancient capital of Manipur and a number of Meetei monarchs have ruled the destination from this fort.

The existence of this fort dates back to 33 AD, when the mythical God-King of Manipur, Nongda Lairen Pakhangba first ascended the throne. It was gradually renovated and developed by successive kings who ruled the place. The ruins of the palace on western side of Imphal River serve as a major tourist attraction. The fort is witness to the history of Manipur and it has withstood several attacks and invasions too. It was encircled by large boundary walls which the British forces destroyed. There are temples and burials grounds inside the compound.

Kangla Fort is a must see destination for any traveller visiting Imphal, Manipur. It is protected by two moats, one inner and one outer. Inside Kangla one can see attractive historical monuments, big greenery park and Kangla Museum and many other. 

VISITING HOURS:

EVERYDAY : 07:00 AM – 05:00 PM