Manipur with its pristine locales, pleasant weather ideal

Manipur is trying to firmly position itself on the tourism map of the country, riding on the picturesque beauty of its lush green valleys and forested hills, along with the annual Sangai Festival which showcases the state's rich tradition and culture to the world.

The 10-day cultural extravaganza, held between November 21 and 30, has been attracting more tourists with each passing year, and will prove to be a major draw for visitors from around the world this time, too, Chief Minister N Biren Singh has asserted.

"Investment can make Manipur a global tourist hotspot. One cannot miss the pristine landscapes in Manipur. Add to that, the greenery, year-round pleasant weather and great food make it an attractive destination for travellers," Singh told a group of visiting journalists recently.

Thailand Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn, US Ambassador to India Kenneth Juster and two ministers from Myanmar are scheduled to grace this year's festival.

A tournament of Polo has been scheduled for the 10-day fest, which is named after brow-antlered deer Sangai, a state government official said.

"For the 12th Manipur Polo International 2018, the participating teams are US, England, Uruguay, Haiti, India (A)