The short answer
Loktak Lake and Sendra: what visitors should know first
Yes, as a full-day trip from Imphal. Go in the dry season, start early, plan a short boat ride and a viewpoint stop at Sendra, and combine it with Moirang and Keibul Lamjao.
History and context
The story behind Loktak Lake and Sendra
Loktak Lake was designated a wetland of international importance (Ramsar) on 23 March 1990 and added to the Montreux Record on 16 June 1993. The Loktak Multipurpose Project, completed in 1983, generates about 105 MW. The lake has three main islands: Sendra, Ithing and Thanga.
Useful facts
Loktak Lake and Sendra facts at a glance
- Location
- South of Imphal, near Moirang
- Experience type
- Lake, viewpoint and boat ride
- Known for
- Phumdis (floating islands), fishermen, birdlife
- Ramsar status
- Designated 1990
- Time or schedule
- Plan a full day; check boat arrangements
Why it matters
Why Loktak Lake and Sendra is worth your time
Loktak is a vast, shallow freshwater lake, with a surface area that typically spans about 287 square kilometres and expands and shrinks with the seasons. Its floating phumdis, a mass of vegetation, soil and organic matter, are what make it unique, and the largest forms the base of Keibul Lamjao National Park.
The lake is also a livelihood for thousands of fishing families and the source of the Loktak hydroelectric project, which makes it both a living landscape and an important ecological site. It is a Ramsar wetland and has been the subject of concern about ecological change.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Phumdis
The floating islands of vegetation are the lake's signature.
- 02
Sendra
A commonly used viewpoint over the lake.
- 03
Fishing communities
Boats and nets on the water give the lake its human scale.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Leave Imphal early by car, with a driver who knows the route. Travel south towards Moirang and continue to the lake. Sendra is a commonly used viewpoint on the lake, with a view across the floating islands.
Take a short boat ride to see the phumdis up close, fishermen in their boats and, in good conditions, birdlife. Keep it short if you are with older travellers; the boats are small and the light changes quickly.
On the way back, stop at the INA memorial at Moirang and, if energy allows, the Vishnu temple at Bishnupur. Confirm the current access and any local conditions before you leave, and carry water, sun protection and a rain layer.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Start early and go in the dry season
- Wear a life jacket and use a boat with a canopy
- Confirm current access and boat arrangements
- Combine with Moirang and Keibul Lamjao
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- South of Imphal, near Moirang, Bishnupur district
- Time needed
- Full day including travel
- Best time
- November to February; early morning or late afternoon
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- Roads are long, and boats are small and can be unsteady. Wear a life jacket, ask for a boat with a canopy and seating, and avoid the monsoon. Viewpoints are easier than boat rides.
- Tickets and access
- Entry and boating arrangements vary by location; check current access, boat rates and safety arrangements with your driver, hotel or the tourism department.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Loktak Lake and Sendra
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
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Travelling with parents?
Roads are long, and boats are small and can be unsteady. Wear a life jacket, ask for a boat with a canopy and seating, and avoid the monsoon. Viewpoints are easier than boat rides.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How far is Loktak from Imphal?
Around 45-50 km south, usually 1.5-2 hours by road; confirm with your driver.
When is the best time?
November to February, when skies are clear and rain is low.
Is Loktak good for older travellers?
The lake is, with care. Long drives and small boats need planning, and choose calm weather.
Sources and further reading
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
