Situated in the Paomata sub-division of Senapati district, Manipur is this hidden treasure village of Liyai Khullen. Lush Green forests, beautiful hilltops and villages, rivers, are some of the major tourist attraction. Village, in their local dialect, is known by the phrase, “People of the sea”, for it is believed that the village goes back as long as 500 years of history to it. Adding onto it, local folklore even suggests that the inhabitants of this village are the descendants of an ancestral tribe who came by looking after water pools, surrounded by beautiful Rhododendrons plants.
How to reach?
While there is no direct connectivity to the village, but there are routes through Rail or Bus transport which leaves within a 10km distance from the village. Further, there is Public/Private Bus service available for the village.
Nearest Bus Stop: Chilao Bus Stop
Nearest Railway Station: Dhansiri Railway Station
Nearest Airport: Imphal Airport
Pin code: 795015
Things to look out for?
While the village is poorly connected, but as they say, the beautiful views, the positive vibes, surreal elements of mother nature, makes it worth the time and effort. Here are just a few among the many reasons to go and stay in the village. See for yourself, as you plan your next travel adventure.
Say hello! to the people of Pou: the Poumai Naga tribe.
Poumai Naga tribe, the descendants of POU, is considered an important tribe in Manipur and Nagaland since times immemorial. The tribe is known for their pottery and Poutai (Pou salt). You will find the tribe full of bravery, fidelity, and wisdom. Celebrate with them the Festival of Nii, the feast of Merit “Zhosouyu".
Capture the beautiful outfits wore by the tribe, the colorful shawls, and clothing. The tribe has different kinds of dresses and adornments for different purposes. Their outfits are named as per the rank of the people in the community, for instance, you will find the Public Representative wearing the Khekaisa(dignitary shawl), while the dignitary shawl for ladies is known as Loukaisa among others.
River Barak: the mighty beauty begins here.
Immerse yourself amidst the panoramic views of the origin site of the Barak River, one of the longest rivers (2,410 km) in Asia. The river starts from the village of Liyai and ends in the Bay of Bengal.
Don't miss out on the 'Laonii: the Plantation Festival'
Laonii, the plantation festival is a must-attend feast in the village as it celebrates the spirit of merrymaking with great pomp and enthusiasm every year. Adding on, this festival interestingly also commemorates the treaty made between the villages of Khonoma and Liyai in the year 1929 to deepen the relationships and strengthen their bond back then. The festival witness ceremonies including joint-feasting with meat, exchange of spears, and celebrates the spirit of friendship between the two villages.
There are auspicious rites and rituals performed. Every newly born male (Chazii) is brought to the festival as it is believed it is imperative to their purification. The festival further also caters to the bond between married women and their brothers, as the latter send meat as a token of their love and remembrance.
Last but not least, the festivals also celebrate the glorious and traditional dance of Vaiko, three days consecutively.
Explore the mountains, landscapes, rivers and a glass of rice beer!
Blessed with the abundance of natural beauty, Liyai is full of mighty mountains, dense forests and river shores for you to cherish and capture. Adding to the vibe is the indigenously made Rice beer in the village. A staple diet of many, the beer is considered amongst the best one produced in the region. People of Primal religion are particularly fond of this drink.
Barak festival: 'Sustaining peace and harmony'
To celebrate the spirit of (Barak) river and its creation, a recent festival has been organised under the theme of ‘Sustaining peace and harmony.’ The festival saw its first edition this year as the CM Mr Singh expressed his desire to organise the festival in greater scale and more systematic manner with the participation of tourists and cultural troupes from other states and foreign countries from the next year. Cultural presentations from different tribes of the district, Miss Barak contest, Barak Voice Hunt, musical night, DJ nite, traditional car rally competition and expedition/trekking to Barak origin at Liyai Khullen were the main attractions in the festivals.
...and a few more reasons to go!
It is said that there are various hidden and mysterious caves and waterfall in-around the village. Stunning and breathtaking views of Phek, Kohima, Myanmar, Ukhrul from the hilltop of Hewdu are an add-on for the tourist. Further, the recently found Vaonuhro Valley and the Giant Himalayan Lily Garden are also evolving as the major tourist attraction lately.
So, what are you waiting for? Go, pack your bags to experience the simplicity and cheerfulness of this 500-year-old land. See you!
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