Located 48 km from Imphal, Loktak Lake is the largest freshwater lake in northeast India. It is considered the lifeline of Manipur, given its importance in the state’s socio-economic and cultural life. In 1990, it was designated as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
The lake is called the world’s only floating lake on account of a maze of phumdis dotting its picturesque waterscape. Phumdis are unique naturally formed floating islands of vegetation, soil and organic matter. Only 1/5 part of these marshes float above the water. These islands offer a unique habitat for a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Even local fishermen who fish in the lake build their huts on these phumdis. Boats are their only means of transport connecting their homes and the town. The lake boasts of 425 species of animals including the waterfowl and Indian python.