World's only floating national park is in India - everything you need to know

Imagine walking through a national park where the ground beneath your feet is not fixed land, but a floating mass of vegetation? Too good to be real, right?

Well, you may be astounded to discover that such rare natural wonder exists in India’s north-east, in the state of Manipur. No, we aren't kidding!

Located on the southern part of Loktak Lake, Keibul Lamjao National Park is recognised as the world’s only floating national park. Spread across approximately 40 square kilometres, the park is one of India’s most unique ecosystems and a remarkable example of how land and water can exist together.

Where is the world’s only floating national park?

Keibul Lamjao National Park is located in the Bishnupur district of Manipur, around 50 kilometres from the state capital, Imphal. It forms an integral part of Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in north-east India.

More from Lifestyle

Loktak Lake itself is famous for its floating islands, locally known as phumdis - thick masses made up of decomposed vegetation, soil and organic matter that float on the lake’s surface. These natural formations create the unusual landscape on which the national park exists.

The floating landscape called 'phumdis'

The most fascinating feature of Keibul Lamjao National Park is its phumdis.

Unlike ordinary islands formed from rocks or solid earth, phumdis are living ecosystems.

They contain layers of plants, roots, soil and organic material at different stages of decomposition. Their unique composition allows them to remain afloat while supporting vegetation and wildlife.

These floating masses change with the seasons, responding to fluctuations in Loktak Lake’s water levels. They are not just a visual wonder but also play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the lake.

Home to the endangered Sangai deer

The biggest reason Keibul Lamjao National Park is globally significant is its connection to the Sangai deer, also known as the brow-antlered deer or the “dancing deer” of Manipur.

The park is the last natural habitat of this endangered species, which is found only in this region. The deer’s delicate movements across the floating grasslands have made it an important symbol of Manipur’s natural heritage.

The national park was initially established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1966 to protect the Sangai deer and its habitat. It was later declared a national park in 1977.

A biodiversity hotspot in Manipur

Beyond the Sangai deer, Keibul Lamjao National Park supports a variety of wildlife, including hog deer, otters, birds, fish and several plant species.

The surrounding Loktak Lake ecosystem also supports local communities through fishing, agriculture and other traditional livelihoods, making conservation of the region important for both wildlife and people.

Why is Keibul Lamjao National Park important?

The floating national park represents one of the world’s rarest wetland ecosystems.

Its importance goes beyond tourism. The park demonstrates how unique habitats can develop through natural processes and why protecting wetlands is essential for biodiversity conservation.

The Keibul Lamjao Conservation Area has also been included on UNESCO’s Tentative List for World Heritage recognition because of the ecological importance of the Loktak Lake and phumdi ecosystem.

Challenges facing the floating national park

Despite its uniqueness, Keibul Lamjao National Park faces environmental challenges.

Changes in water management, pollution, habitat degradation and pressures on Loktak Lake have raised concerns about maintaining the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

Conservation efforts focus on protecting the Sangai deer, preserving the phumdis and ensuring the long-term survival of this extraordinary wetland landscape.

A natural wonder hidden in India’s north-east

Keibul Lamjao National Park is more than a tourist attraction - it is a reminder of nature’s ability to create landscapes that seem almost impossible.

A forest that floats, a lake that supports life, and a rare deer that exists nowhere else in the world make this corner of Manipur one of India’s most remarkable natural treasures.

For anyone fascinated by unusual places, wildlife conservation and hidden destinations, the world’s only floating national park offers an experience unlike anywhere else on Earth.

Best time to visit

October and March is generally considered the best time to visit when the weather is pleasant and migratory birds arrive in the region.

Wildlife sightings, including the endangered Sangai deer, are generally better during the cooler months.

Early mornings are considered the best time for spotting animals. The monsoon season (June to September) can make travel and wildlife viewing more challenging due to heavy rainfall.

How to reach

By air: The nearest airport is Imphal International Airport (Tulihal), around 50–55 km from the park.

From there, visitors can hire a taxi to reach Keibul Lamjao National Park in about 1.5 to 2 hours.

By rail: The closest railway station is Jiribam Railway Station, approximately 220–240 km away. Road transport is available from the station to the park.

By road: The park is well connected to Imphal and Moirang by road. Moirang, located about 15 km away, serves as the main gateway to the national park. Taxis and local buses operate regularly from Imphal.

Timings and entry fee

Keibul Lamjao National Park is generally open daily from around 9 am to 6 pm, although timings may vary slightly depending on the season and forest department regulations.

Visitors are advised to start early for the best wildlife viewing experience.

The entry fee is typically Rs 50 for Indian visitors and Rs 500 for foreign nationals, though charges are subject to revision.

Additional fees may apply for cameras or guided activities. It is advisable to confirm the latest charges before planning your visit.

Things to do

Besides looking for the elusive Sangai deer, visitors can climb the watchtowers for panoramic views of the floating grasslands.

Addition attractions also include a boat ride on Loktak Lake to experience its famous phumdis up close and visiting Sendra Island, which is one of the best viewpoints overlooking the lake.

You can also explore nearby Moirang, home to the INA Memorial dedicated to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose and the Indian National Army.

Travel tips you'll thanks us for

Carry binoculars if you're hoping to spot the Sangai deer or migratory birds.

Needless to say, wear comfortable walking shoes and neutral-coloured clothing to avoid disturbing wildlife.

Mobile connectivity may be patchy in some parts of the park, so don't panic and inform your folks beforehand.

Consider spending at least half a day exploring both Keibul Lamjao National Park and Loktak Lake for the best experience.