Moirang, the name of a beautiful place in Manipur keeps throbbing with tourist footfall fetching no less revenue to the north eastern state. Come to Bishnupur district. Then go straightly to the spot where many festivals take place to attract the tourists. This is what the tiny but historic hamlet where Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose hoisted the flag to mark the start of the struggle on 14th April, 1944. The entire village is proud of Meitei folk culture to be showcased in a number of festivals. May in Moirang is a season of a huge festival of Haraoba festival. The huge event comprises Khamba-Thoibi dance. The tourists make it a fine occasion here to enjoy the unique Manipuri dance with colourful ethnic clothes. Moirang beckons tourists not only for the traditional folk culture. More interesting is the army museum. Even a quick visit might give you a glimpse of the bronze statue of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose apart from his badges, articles and letters.
A journey to Moirang is not at all tedious and monotonous. The historical hamlet can be reached by bus not to speak of other surface mood of transport. Only you need to arrive at the Waheng Leikai bus junction en route to Moirang. The tiny town has a temple of Lord Thangjing, a pre Hindu deity. Some of the tourists never miss a glimpse of Ngangkhaleikai where the old cloth used by Khamba and Nongban are still kept intact. There was a time when the Moirang king was the most powerful among the seven kings in the north eastern state.
The month long Lai Haraoba festival takes place in mid May where tourists throng in thousands to share the joy of these local people.
Imphal is the nearest airport for the air tourists from where bus and taxi services are available. The closest rail head is Dimapur while it is reachable from Guwahati via Imphal by bus. A narrow guage rail line from Jiribam is also no less comfortable.
