Manipur is one of the most prominent states in India, home to a wide range of tourist attractions. These include national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, pilgrimage sites, forts and palaces, and various other spots. Among all of them, the forts and palaces in the state of Manipur are worth witnessing. The Kangla Palace is one of the renowned sites, often referred to as the Manipur Fort. This site, located in the capital city of Manipur, is highly valued in the region. It is an exquisite palace, famous for its archaeological and historical significance. The Kangla Palace is also known as the old palace of Manipur. According to archaeologists, the fortress of this state was well-designed and structured, making it one of the most iconic ancient sites, not only in Manipur but in India as well.
This palace was constructed by King Khagemba in 1611 A.D., who was the ruler of Kangla city. Many years passed before the construction of this historical and archaeological site was completed due to the invasions between the Burmese and Manipur. The battle lasted for seven years, during which construction came to a halt. According to the records of archaeologists and legendary tales, the structure of the Kangla Palace was mostly in ruins. Later, the son of Khagemba, Khunjaoba, took the initiative to beautify and improve the palace, transforming it into the iconic fort of Manipur. Inside the palace, you can see a large moat, which was once filled with water. As per the record, Khunjaoba married a Manipuri princess, leaving all his disputes behind.
The construction project was passed on to King Garibaniwaz, who made significant improvements and enlargements to the palace. Visitors come from all corners of the world, both local and international, to witness this alluring site. The main highlight of the palace is its massive brick walls, constructed with well-burnt bricks, which give the Manipur fort its magnificent appearance. It is an enchanting place that reflects various legendary stories of the state of Manipur, as documented in the history of India. If you are planning a trip to Manipur, make sure you visit Kangla city, where you can explore various attractions, including the Kangla Palace.
Kangla Palace
- Location: Kangla city, Manipur, India.
- Established In: Early 1611 A.D.
- Constructed By: King Khagemba.
The Kangla Palace is one of the oldest palaces, located in the city of Kangla in the state of Manipur, India. The palace was originally situated on both the western and eastern sides of the Imphal River reservoir. However, today, the beautiful palace remains only on the western side of the riverbank. It is now one of the most famous ruins, attracting numerous tourists. The word “Kangla” means “dry land” in old Meitei. This enchanting palace was a traditional place for the Meitei rulers during the early periods of Manipur’s history.
According to legendary tales, the British government referred to the Kangla Palace as the most renowned tourist attraction, simply known as the ‘Manipur Fort.’ The Kangla Palace is the most important archaeological and historical site preserved in the state of Manipur today. The land was developed to create Kangla city, which was established as the capital of Manipur. The city contained historical, religious, and cultural centers, many of which are preserved to this day.
The palace was built by King Khagemba in 1611 A.D., who constructed the Kangla Fort to defend against the Chinese. According to historical records, King Khagemba built a massive brick wall at the western gate of the fort in 1632 A.D. The purpose of the wall was to keep Chinese prisoners inside, who had been captured during the Chinese invasion of the eastern boundary of Manipur. Khunjaoba, the son of King Khagemba, took further steps to beautify and fortify the palace.
Archaeological records state that King Khagemba also dug a moat, known as Thangapat, located on the western part of the Manipur Fort. Under the rule of King Khunjaoba, the prestige and power of Manipur reached their peak, and the state became well-known. The king was approached by Burmese chiefs and other kings who sought to marry Manipuri princesses, leaving behind their disputes. The challenge of building the Kangla Palace was handed over to King Garibaniwaz, who succeeded in expanding and improving the fort. After him, the responsibility for constructing the Kangla Fort was passed on to other kings and chiefs. Later, under the sovereignty of Maharaja Bhagyachandra, the Kangla Palace remained deserted for a long period due to the conflict between Manipur and Burma. Maharaja Gambhir Singh played a key role in freeing Manipur from the Burmese by defeating their forces after a seven-year battle.
The Kangla Palace is surrounded by a large boundary wall, parts of which were destroyed by the British. According to records, the citadel’s walls were made of well-burnt red bricks and stood at a height of 20 feet. The citadel has three main entrances, two of which are located on the southern and western sides of the fort. It remains a significant and enduring site, maintained from ancient times to the present day. The capital city of Manipur also offers other popular attractions, including sacred temples, historical and archaeological sites, assembly halls, Nature and Wildlife. Tourists from around the world come to witness the magnificent Kangla Palace in Manipur. For those interested in archaeology and history, this is the perfect place to explore, as it reflects various legendary stories mentioned in Indian history.