Imphal airport: A Gateway to Manipur’s Natural Beauty

Tucked away in the northeastern corner of India, Imphal Airport is a hidden gem that offers a unique travel experience. As the primary international airport serving Manipur, it’s a gateway to a region known for its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant festivals. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey to explore the best of Imphal Airport and what it has to offer.

Getting There

Imphal Airport is located about 6 kilometers southeast of Imphal city center, making it easily accessible by taxi, bus, or auto-rickshaw. The airport is well-connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Mumbai, with multiple flights operating daily.

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Imphal Airport Facilities

Despite being a relatively small airport, Imphal Airport boasts basic facilities that make your travel experience comfortable. The airport has a single terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights. The terminal is equipped with:

• Check-in counters and baggage claim belts
• Duty-free shops for souvenirs and essentials
• Cafes and restaurants serving local and international cuisine
• A lounge area for premium passengers
• Prayer rooms and children’s play areas

Security Measures

The airport takes security seriously, with CCTV cameras and metal detectors installed throughout the terminal. The customs and immigration counters are well-staffed to handle international passengers.

Things to Do Around the Imphal Airport

While you’re waiting for your flight or during your layover, here are some activities to keep you entertained:

• Visit the nearby Imphal Golf Course: Take a short taxi ride to the golf course and enjoy a round of golf amidst the serene surroundings.
• Explore the local markets: Head to the nearby markets like Ima Keithel (Womens’ Market) or Mapal Kangjeibung (Flea Market) for a taste of local culture and shopping.
• Enjoy local cuisine: Try some traditional Manipuri dishes like Eromba (steamed fish), Kangkhui (rice flakes), or Pakham Bora (banana flower).
• Visit nearby attractions: The iconic Kangla Fort, Khwairamband Bazar (a popular market), and the Manipur State Museum are all within easy reach.

Tips for First-Time Travelers

• Dress modestly when visiting local temples or attending cultural events.
• Respect local customs and traditions.
• Learn a few basic phrases in Meitei (Manipuri language) like “Zadi” (hello) or “Thaba” (thank you).
• Bargain when shopping at local markets – it’s all part of the experience!

Imphal Airport may not be a large or modern airport, but it offers a unique charm that makes it worth visiting. As you explore this hidden gem, you’ll discover the warmth of Manipuri hospitality, the beauty of nature, and the rich cultural heritage of the region. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or an adventure-seeker, Imphal Airport is an excellent starting point for your journey through Manipur.

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the best of Imphal Airport!

Details of Imphal airport

Imphal Airport (also known as Imphal Tulihal Airport) is the primary international airport serving the city of Imphal, the capital of the Indian state of Manipur. Here are some interesting facts about Imphal Airport:

1. Location: The airport is located about 6 kilometers southeast of Imphal city center.
2. International flights: Imphal Airport receives international flights from cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Bangkok.
3. Domestic flights: The airport has regular domestic flights to major Indian cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati.
4. Terminal: The airport has a single terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights.
5. Airlines: Several airlines operate at Imphal Airport, including AirAsia, Air India, Alliance Air, and IndiGo.
6. Passenger traffic: The airport handled around 1.3 million passengers in 2020-21.
7. Runway: The airport has a single runway that is 2,743 meters long and 45 meters wide.
8. Airport expansion: The airport is undergoing expansion works to increase its capacity and improve facilities.
9. Facilities: The airport has basic facilities like check-in counters, baggage claim belts, and duty-free shops.
10. Taxi and bus services: Taxis and buses are available outside the airport to take passengers to their destinations in Imphal city.
11. Connectivity: The airport is connected to the city center via National Highway 2 (NH-2) and State Highway 37 (SH-37).
12. Security: The airport has CCTV cameras and metal detectors for enhanced security measures.
13. Customs and immigration: The airport has customs and immigration facilities for international passengers.
14. Airport hotel: There are several hotels near the airport, including the Hotel Classic Grande Imphal, Hotel Classic Regency, and Hotel Prafulla Inn.
15. Future plans: Plans are underway to develop a new terminal building and expand the airport’s runway to handle more traffic.

Imphal Airport is an important gateway to the northeastern region of India, connecting Manipur to other parts of the country and the world.

Interesting facts about Imphal Airport:

1. Location: Imphal Airport is located about 6 kilometers southeast of Imphal city center.
2. IATA Code: The airport’s IATA code is IMF.
3. ICAO Code: The airport’s ICAO code is VEIM.
4. Runway: The airport has a single runway that is 2,743 meters long and 45 meters wide.
5. Terminal: The airport has a single terminal building that handles both domestic and international flights.
6. Passenger Traffic: In 2020-21, the airport handled around 1.3 million passengers.
7. Airlines: Several airlines operate at Imphal Airport, including AirAsia, Air India, Alliance Air, and IndiGo.
8. Destinations: The airport has direct flights to major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, and Mumbai, as well as international flights to Bangkok.
9. Customs and Immigration: The airport has customs and immigration facilities for international passengers.
10. Security: The airport has CCTV cameras and metal detectors for enhanced security measures.
11. Airport Expansion: The airport is undergoing expansion works to increase its capacity and improve facilities.
12. Hotel Options: There are several hotels near the airport, including the Hotel Classic Grande Imphal, Hotel Classic Regency, and Hotel Prafulla Inn.
13. Taxi and Bus Services: Taxis and buses are available outside the airport to take passengers to their destinations in Imphal city.
14. Airport Operations: The airport operates from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM daily.
15. Check-in Time: Check-in counters open 2 hours before flight departure time.
16. Baggage Allowance: The standard baggage allowance for domestic flights is 20 kg (44 lbs), while for international flights it’s 30 kg (66 lbs).
17. Airport Authority: The airport is managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
18. History: Imphal Airport was established in 1954 as a military airfield and was later converted into a civilian airport in 1957.
19. Elevation: The airport is situated at an elevation of 790 meters (2,592 feet) above sea level.
20. Weather: Imphal Airport experiences a subtropical climate with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year.

These facts provide an overview of Imphal Airport’s infrastructure, operations, and amenities, making it easier for travelers to plan their trip to Manipur’s capital city!