Khwairamband Bazaar, Imphal



The Khwairamband Bazaar, as the name suggests, is a marketplace and is one of the major tourist attractions of Imphal, the capital city of Manipur. The Khwairamband Bazaar, Imphal, is situated at a distance of about 8 kilometers from the heart of the city. The market is a favorite haunt of both the locals and the shopaholics who visit the city.

The Khwairamband Bazar is also known as Ima Market or Nupi Keithel. The unique feature of the market is that every one of the 3000 odd shopkeepers are women. This reflects the independent spirit and enterprise of the Manipuri women. Folklore advocates that these women are protected by Goddess Ima. The bazaar remains open from 9 in the morning till 7 in the evening.

The tribal women display a range of items from food items such as fresh fruits and vegetables, meat, fish and honey to clothes and woolens. Traditional and tribal costumes in brilliant hues attract the tourists who pay this market a visit. The metal and carved wooden jewelry on display in this market are handcrafted by the tribal men of the region.

The Ima Market, located on either side of the thoroughfare, is a cheery, tourist hotspot and probably the best locale to catch the local culture. It is also the best possible place to pick up a souvenir or a trinket to remind you of your stay in the beautiful city of Imphal.

Other markets located in the vicinity of the Khwairamband Bazaar, Imphal are famed for their display of hand-woven cane baskets and handcrafted wooden furniture.



Last Updated on 19th Oct 2012