Phayeng Chakpa village is Manipur's new favourite tourist spot

Having recently hosted the World Tourism Day celebration, one of the oldest villages of Manipur, Phayeng Chakpa village, has now become a vibrant tourist hotspot of the state.

Located 16 kilometres away from the Imphal city, Phayeng Chakpa village is the hallmark for sustainable tourism. The village is known as one of the sacred places in the state, as cutting down trees and spitting is prohibited here.

Four people reportedly go on regular duty to patrol to see that there is no tree felling and no destruction to the forest and the wildlife here.

In order to maintain a clean and green environment and to give back to the nature, the organisers of the World Tourism Day celebration instructed the visitors to not distort the place even after the function.

Speaking at the event as the chief guest, the state minister of consumer affairs, food and public distribution and revenue, Karam Shyam said that the state should become tourist friendly and provide a secure environment by improving the law and order situation, in order to boost tourism.

Shyam also urged the people to help the government in making Manipur a favoured tourist destination, which would thereby boost the state economy.

Principal Secretary of Manipur Tourism, P.K. Singh said that the department is planning to start several new initiatives of tourism sector like letting out all the tourism properties for private management, and homestays.

"This way we can project a very clean and green Manipur with the rest of India and the world, so that people come and stay here and enjoy the nature," Singh said.

A variety of dances like Khou Chongba and Chakpa Phayeng Anoiba jagoi (ritual sword dance) marked the world tourism day at the picturesque Phayeng village.

As part of the World Tourism Day celebrations, the demonstration of Mukna (wrestling) and Waa Chingba (tug of war using bamboo) by the residents of the village also enthralled the spectators.

"Today, all villagers of Phayeng are very happy and grateful for hosting the World Tourism Day here. We are also grateful to have recognized the beauty of our place and it is a good day for all of us," said Memma Devi, a resident.

Apart from the cultural performances, a range of mouth-watering exotic food items from Manipuri cuisine and traditionally brewed wine were also available at the celebration.