The largest freshwater lake in Northeast India is famous for its unique floating vegetation called phumdis. This is a mass of specific vegetation, soil and organic matter, which is floating on the lake surface. The most unique and the largest part of this phumdis covers the area of 40 sq km.
It is the only floating park in the world—the Keibul Lamjao National Park. The park is home to the endangered Brow-antlered Deer, which is indigenous to this area.
The Loktak Lake is home to 233 species of aquatic plants, over a hundred species of birds, and 425 species of animals including some rare species, like Indian python, sambhar and barking deer. The lake plays an important role in the life of the area. It is the main source of water for hydropower generation, irrigation and drinking as well.
The driest months are February–March, thus, this is the best time to visit the area. During the rest of the year, monsoon weather prevails in the valley.
Practical info
When is it recommended to visit the Loktak Lake?
Visiting the Loktak Lake during the drier months of February and March is highly recommended due to favorable weather conditions that enable outdoor activities and sightseeing. However, it's best to avoid the monsoon period throughout the rest of the year. The lake's beauty and ecological significance as a nature reserve make it a popular tourist destination. Show more
What distinguishes the vegetation on the Loktak Lake?
The Loktak Lake's surreal floating vegetation, phumdis, distinguished by its unique composition of vegetation, soil, and other organic matter, forms the basis of the lake's aquatic habitat. The UNESCO-recognized (Keibul Lamjao) National Park located on the lake is home to rare animal species like the endangered Brow-antlered Deer, and a wide variety of aquatic plants, numbering 233 species in total, that play a significant role in the geo-ecological environment of the lake. Show more
What makes the Keibul Lamjao National Park unique?
The Keibul Lamjao National Park's uniqueness lies in its location as the only floating park in the world. It is located on Loktak Lake and regarded as a unique conservation area that provides a valuable habitat for the endangered Brow-antlered Deer, as well as other aquatic animal species and different types of birds. The park's stringent conservation efforts preserve the natural ecosystem of the lake, including its diverse species of aquatic plants. Show more
What are some of the rare animals that habitat the Loktak Lake?
At the Loktak Lake, visitors may spot some rare animal species, such as the region-endemic Brow-antlered Deer, Indian python, sambhar, barking deer, and many more, contributing to the high ecological integrity of the lake. Visitors can also enjoy a diverse range of aquatic animals and birds. The lake has become a popular destination for nature and bird enthusiasts alike to enjoy the common sights or rare sightings. Show more
What is the significant role of the Loktak Lake for the region?
The Loktak Lake is an essential water source for drinking, irrigation, and hydropower generation for the local communities. The aquatic plants found in the lake play an important medicinal role used for various traditional purposes. The lake has become a popular tourist destination attracting nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and visitors interested in learning about the local culture and customs in the region. Loktak Lake is a crucial ecosystem with a socio-cultural and ecological significance that is unique to the region. Show more
