Current time in Imphal, India

Imphal is located in the northeastern part of India, specifically in the state of Manipur. Its GPS coordinates are 24.80805 latitude and 93.9442 longitude, placing it in the lush and hilly terrain of the region. The city operates within the Asia/Kolkata timezone, aligning it with Indian Standard Time.

Imphal is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and beautiful landscapes. It serves as a hub for the traditional arts and crafts of Manipur, including handloom textiles and pottery. The city is also significant for its role in regional politics and as a center for various ethnic communities, contributing to the diverse cultural tapestry of northeastern India.

The Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in northeastern India, is located nearby and adds to the ecological significance of the area.

Timezone in Imphal

Imphal, located in India, operates on Indian Standard Time, which is UTC+5:30. This means that Imphal is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Coordinated Universal Time. India does not observe daylight saving time, so the UTC offset remains constant throughout the year.

This stability simplifies scheduling and communication, as no adjustments are necessary for seasonal changes. When considering communication with Imphal from the United States, the time difference can be significant. For example, when it is noon in New York City, it is 10:30 PM in Imphal.

This can make real-time communication challenging, especially if one party prefers to contact the other during standard business hours. The best time to reach someone in Imphal would generally be between 8 AM and 10 PM local time, which corresponds to 9:30 PM to 11:30 AM in New York City. Compared to other major cities in the region, such as Kolkata and Dhaka, Imphal shares the same timezone as Kolkata, but it is 30 minutes ahead of Dhaka, which operates on Bangladesh Time at UTC+6.

Therefore, scheduling meetings or calls with Imphal is similar to Kolkata, while being slightly ahead of Dhaka.

Attractions and Activities in Imphal

Imphal, the capital city of Manipur in India, is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. One of the major attractions is the Kangla Fort, a historical site that once served as the royal palace of the Manipuri kings. The fort reflects the region’s history and is a symbol of the Manipuri identity.

Additionally, the Imphal War Cemetery commemorates the soldiers who lost their lives during World War II, highlighting the city’s connection to significant historical events. The Loktak Lake, situated nearby, is renowned for its unique floating phumdis (vegetation) and is the largest freshwater lake in northeastern India. It is a crucial ecosystem and supports a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Sangai deer.

Imphal is also famous for its vibrant local markets, such as the Ima Keithal, an all-women’s market where local crafts and goods are sold, showcasing the entrepreneurial spirit of the women in the region. The city’s festivals, particularly the Lai Haraoba, celebrate the rich traditions and mythology of Manipur, making Imphal a vibrant hub of culture and nature.

Practical Information for Visitors

Imphal, the capital of Manipur, is well-connected by various modes of transport. The Imphal International Airport serves as the primary gateway for air travelers, offering flights from major Indian cities like Delhi and Kolkata. For those preferring train travel, the nearest railway station is in Dimapur, about 215 kilometers away, which connects to Imphal via road.

Buses and shared taxis are also available, providing an affordable means to reach Imphal from neighboring towns. The climate in Imphal is generally temperate, with mild summers and cool winters. The best time to visit is between October and March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for sightseeing.

During these months, temperatures range from 10 to 25 degrees Celsius, making it comfortable for outdoor activities. When visiting Imphal, it’s advisable to dress modestly, respecting the local culture. Carry cash, as not all establishments accept cards, and familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions.

Always stay hydrated and consider trying the local cuisine, but ensure it’s prepared in hygienic conditions to avoid any health issues.