The culture of Manipur is a fine blend of colorful festivals, rich history, vibrant customs, wonderful architecture, delicious cuisines, enchanting music, exciting dance forms and much more. The fun loving mentality of the people of the state is reflected in their different festivals and fairs.
These festivals are enlivened by enchanting folk music and exciting dances. Dances like the Thabal Chongba are performed by tribal men and women during the festival. The feet tapping rhythm of the dances will instantly make you fall in love with the music and dances. Two of the many music forms of Manipur are Lai Haraoba Ishei and Pena Ishei.
The Manipuri people have their own traditional dresses and colorful costumes. The craftsmen of Manipur are excellent in weaving wonderful garments and other handicrafts made with bamboo, stone etc.
The favorite pastime or sports of the people of Manipur is archery. The expert archers of Manipur take part in the archery competitions held during the festivals. The bamboo bows and arrows are extremely well made and elegantly decorated.
The Bengali architectural style has influenced the wonderful architectures of Manipur. The ancestral houses and ancient buildings bear the architectural brilliance of the region.