While checking the holiday list declared by the Manipur Government, you may be surprised to find that various regional festivities are spread throughout the calendar. Some auspicious events that the localities openly revere include Gaan-Ngai, Lui-Ngai-Ni, Cheiraoba, Kut, and Yaosang.

Here, you can keep reading to learn more about the government and bank holidays in Manipur in 2024.

The festive events you enjoy alongside the local people of Manipur complement the state’s rich heritage, tradition, and culture. There are also specific gatherings where you witness the indigenous people celebrating their annual harvest.

We understand how enthusiastic you must be while planning this much-awaited trip to India’s very state of blossoms. Thus, we have listed down the important dates and festivals for your convenience:

1. Gaan-Ngai (23rd January 2024): The Gaan-Ngai is a cultural fest of the Zeliangrong. It is observed every winter to celebrate the annual harvest. On this day, the local people produce fire by rubbing dry wood and distributing it among households.
2. Lui-Ngai-Ni (15th February 2024): The Lui-Ngai-Ni means ‘seed sowing.’ Every year, the Naga tribe commemorates this day to welcome the Spring season.
3. Yaosang (25th and 26th March 2024): The Manipuris celebrate Yaosang throughout five days. For the indigenous people, it is their own ‘Festival of Colours,’ the beginning of which is marked by burning a straw hut.
4. Cheiraoba (14th April 2024): The people of Manipur often refer to this day as the Lunar New Year festival. It was initially celebrated by the Meitei people, who made preparations for a grand feast.
5. Janmashtami (26th August 2024): This is an exceptional day for Hindus as it commemorates the birth of Shri Krishna.
6. Dussehra (12th October 2024): On this day, many places host enactments where the idol of the buffalo demon Mahishasura is burned to celebrate the victory of good over evil.
7. Kut (1st November 2024): Kut, or ‘Chavang Kut,’ is a popular state-level holiday. This ritual, believed to have begun almost 3000 years ago, was initially initiated by the indigenous Kuki-Chin-Mizo people.
8. Christmas (25th December 2024): Mainly, you will see the Christmas celebrations in Manipur on the 24th’s Eve and on the 25th December. While some parts, like Imphal, Kakching, Wangjing, etc., continue celebrating Christmas for over a week.

2024 is a joyous year for everyone eagerly waiting for holidays to plan getaways. This year, the calendar is filled with festive streaks; if you plan accordingly, you may make the most out of it.

Know more about:

• Famous Temples in Manipur
• Best Treks in Manipur