Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, is a stunning ecological marvel located in Manipur. What makes this lake truly unique are its phumdis—floating biomass formations made of vegetation, soil, and organic matter that drift atop the water’s surface. These floating islands support entire ecosystems, including the only floating national park in the world—Keibul Lamjao National Park, home to the endangered Sangai deer (brow-antlered deer), Manipur’s state animal.

Visiting Loktak offers a rare experience of witnessing human settlements living atop these moving masses, showcasing a delicate coexistence between nature and tradition. Fishermen’s huts, called phumsangs, dot the lake, offering a glimpse into the sustainable, lake-based lifestyle of the local Meitei communities. Birdwatchers, nature lovers, and photographers will find endless inspiration in Loktak’s tranquil sunrises and sunsets, framed by misty hills and lotus-filled waters. A boat ride across the lake reveals the true magic of this biodiverse wonderland—an ever-shifting, living lakescape that feels almost mythical.