Ibudhou Khana Chaoba Temple - Manipuri

 

Ibudhou Khana Chaoba Temple is one of the most spiritually significant and culturally rich temples located in Bishnupur district of Manipur. Deeply rooted in Sanamahism (the indigenous religion of the Meitei community), this temple is a sacred site dedicated to Ibudhou Khana Chaoba, a powerful guardian deity. Pilgrims and cultural enthusiasts visit this temple not only for spiritual fulfillment but also to witness the unique blend of Meitei rituals, folklore, and traditional festivals such as Lai Haraoba. Its serene setting and cultural importance make it a must-visit destination in northeastern India.

Temple About

Ibudhou Khana Chaoba Temple is a revered shrine dedicated to Lord Khana Chaoba, a local deity worshipped as a guardian spirit by the Meitei community in Manipur. The temple is an important spiritual center representing traditional Sanamahism and local Meitei religious culture.

Temple Description

The temple architecture reflects typical Meitei religious structures, combining simplicity with spiritual symbolism. It features a sanctum where the deity is enshrined, and the temple is often visited during festivals and traditional rituals, especially during Lai Haraoba.

Temple Specialty

Dedicated to Ibudhou Khana Chaoba, a powerful guardian deity in Sanamahism.

Major center for celebrating Lai Haraoba festival — a traditional and vibrant Meitei religious ceremony.

Reflects Meitei culture, spirituality, and indigenous beliefs.

Plays a central role in maintaining local religious traditions in Bishnupur.

Temple Address

Ibudhou Khana Chaoba Temple,

Bishnupur District,

Manipur, India – 795126

Temple Location (Longitude & Latitude)

24.6124° N, 93.7590° E

Temple Timings

Open all days: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Temple Sevas

Daily Puja and Offerings

Ritual Ceremonies during Festivals

Special Prayers during Lai Haraoba

Traveling Facilities

Accessible by road, rail, and air.

Local taxis and buses available from Imphal and Bishnupur.

Rental cars and auto services from nearby cities.

Food Facilities

Local eateries available in Bishnupur town.

Traditional Manipuri cuisine (Eromba, Chamthong, and rice dishes) can be found.

Some restaurants offer vegetarian meals.

Stay Facilities

Budget hotels and guesthouses available in Bishnupur.

Lodges and mid-range hotels in nearby Imphal (30 km away).

Advance booking recommended during festivals.

Nearby Railway Station

Jiribam Railway Station – approx. 220 km from Bishnupur

Nearby Airport

Imphal Tulihal International Airport (IMF) – approx. 30 km from Bishnupur

Nearby Bus Station

Bishnupur Bus Stand

Regular buses to/from Imphal, Thoubal, and other local areas.

Bus Routes to Temple

From Imphal ISBT, buses are available to Bishnupur town.

Route: Imphal → Nambol → Moirang → Bishnupur.

Local shared taxis also operate on this route.

Train Routes to Temple

Board trains to Jiribam Railway Station.

From Jiribam, take a bus or shared taxi to Imphal → Bishnupur.

Train connectivity to Silchar (Assam) and other NE regions.

Airways to Temple

Fly to Imphal International Airport.

From Imphal, taxis or buses available to Bishnupur (approx. 1 hr journey).

Nearby Cities to Temple

Imphal – 30 km

Moirang – 15 km

Thoubal – 50 km

Churachandpur – 60 km

Nearby Visiting Temples and Places

Rasmanjuri Temple, Bishnupur

Loktak Lake – 15 km

INA Museum, Moirang

Keibul Lamjao National Park – world's only floating national park

Shree Govindajee Temple, Imphal

Preferable Visiting Season

October to March (cool and pleasant weather)

Lai Haraoba Festival period (usually April–May or December–January, based on lunar calendar)

Shopping – Famous For

Manipuri handloom shawls & phaneks

Black pottery of Longpi

Bamboo & cane crafts

Local spices and herbs

Traditional Manipuri jewelry

A visit to Ibudhou Khana Chaoba Temple offers a meaningful spiritual journey and an authentic cultural experience. Set amidst the serene landscape of Bishnupur, the temple stands as a living testimony to Manipur’s deep-rooted heritage and religious traditions. Whether you're seeking peace, tradition, or exploration, this sacred site welcomes all with open arms, especially during the vibrant festival of Lai Haraoba. It’s not just a destination, but a doorway into the heart of Meitei culture.