Kangla Fort

Kangla Fort is the ancient heart of Imphal, a fortified palace complex on the west bank of the Imphal River that served as the seat of Manipur's rulers for nearly two thousand years. The name means "dry land" in Meitei, and the site has been sacred to the Meitei people since the earliest historical records. The fort was taken by the British after the 1891 war and occupied by the Indian Army's Assam Rifles until 2004, when it was returned amid enormous public celebration.

The grounds are now a peaceful park with substantial ruins, manicured lawns, and the important Pakhangba Temple at the centre. The twin dragon statues at the main entrance (Kangla Sha) are the symbol of Manipur. The fort museum near the entrance has exhibits on Manipuri history and the independence struggle.

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A story
Kangla was the seat of Manipuri kings for nearly two thousand years. In 1891 the British seized it after the Anglo-Manipur War and used it as their cantonment headquarters for over a century. It was finally returned to the people of Manipur in 2004, after decades of occupation by the Assam Rifles — and the emotional significance of the handover was enormous. Thousands gathered to see the flag lowered and the gates opened.