What’s inside the world’s ONLY floating national park?

Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur, India, is one of the most unique ecosystems in the world. How, you ask? The national park is the only floating national park on the planet. How’s that for unique? Located on the Loktak Lake, approximately 48 kilometres from the capital city of Imphal, this extraordinary park is everything a curious traveller looks for in their travels – unique stories to tell. Here's what sets it apart:

The park is characterised by phumdis or the floating biomass made of soil, organic matter, and vegetation. As the water level shifts, these phumdis shift as well. These are the floating habitats that also serve as grazing grounds for animals and a home for aquatic plants and fish.

Keibul Lamjao is the last natural habitat of the Sangai, an endangered and graceful brow-antlered deer. Also known as the dancing deer, these deer get their name from their delicate movements on the floating vegetation. For those curious, Sangai deer is not just a symbol of Manipur but also a vital part of the park's identity.

The park supports a wide variety of flora and fauna, including several species of birds (resident and migratory), reptiles, amphibians, and aquatic life. The diverse ecosystems of Keibul Lamjao National Park ranges from wetland to terrestrial habitats.

For local communities, the park and Loktak Lake provide resources for fishing and agriculture. Additionally, the Sangai is deeply intertwined with the folklore and traditions of Manipur, symbolising the delicate balance between nature and culture.

Keibul Lamjao faces threats from habitat degradation, invasive species, and changes in water levels due to hydropower projects. However, ongoing conservation efforts, including community involvement and awareness programs, aim to protect this fragile ecosystem and its iconic wildlife.