Shree Govindajee Temple is one of the most sacred and culturally significant temples in the northeastern state of Manipur. Located in Imphal East, this historic temple stands as a testament to the deep-rooted Vaishnavite traditions of the Meitei people. With its rich spiritual heritage, striking architecture, and vibrant religious festivals, the temple attracts devotees and tourists from across the region and the country. Below is a comprehensive guide covering all key aspects for those planning to visit or learn about this iconic shrine.
Temple About:
Shree Govindajee Temple is a historic and prominent Vaishnavite temple dedicated to Lord Krishna, located in Imphal, the capital city of Manipur. It is deeply revered by the Meitei people and holds cultural as well as religious importance.
Temple Description:
Built in 1846 during the reign of Maharaja Nara Singh, the temple features a simple yet elegant architectural style with twin gold-plated domes and a large paved courtyard. The main deities worshipped are Lord Govindajee (Krishna), Radha, Balabhadra, and Subhadra. The temple serves as a spiritual center for the Vaishnavite sect in the region.
Temple Specialty:
Lord Govindajee is considered the royal deity of the erstwhile Manipur kingdom.
The temple plays a central role during the famous Ras Leela Festival, celebrated with traditional Manipuri dance and music.
It is a hub for cultural preservation and religious devotion in Manipur.
Temple Address:Govindajee Temple, Near Kangla Fort, Imphal East, Imphal, Manipur – 795001
Temple Location (Longitude and Latitude):
24.8071° N, 93.9368° E
Temple Timings:
Morning: 05:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Evening: 04:00 PM – 08:30 PM
(Timings may vary during festivals)
Temple Sevas:
Daily aarti and bhajan sessions
Special sevas during Janmashtami and Ras Leela
Devotional offerings (Naivedyam and Tulasi Archana)
Community kirtans and cultural programs
Traveling Facilities:
Well-connected by road via private and public transport
Local taxis, auto-rickshaws, and buses available from major junctions in Imphal
Food Facilities:
Local vegetarian eateries available nearby
Temple prasad distributed on festival days
Restaurants serving Manipuri cuisine in Imphal town
Stay Facilities:
Budget and mid-range hotels available in Imphal city
Government guest houses and private lodges nearby
No accommodation facility within temple premises
Nearby Railway Station:
Dimapur Railway Station (Nagaland) – approx. 210 km away (nearest major station)
Nearby Airport:
Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, Imphal – approx. 8 km from the temple
Nearby Bus Station:
Imphal ISBT (Inter State Bus Terminal) – about 6–7 km from the temple
Bus Routes to Temple:
Regular buses from Guwahati, Silchar, Kohima to Imphal
Local buses and shared vans available to the temple from various points in Imphal
Train Routes to Temple:
Take a train to Dimapur (Nagaland) or Jiribam (limited services)
Continue journey to Imphal by road via taxi or bus
Airways to Temple:
Daily flights to Imphal Airport from major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati
Airport to temple: 15–20 mins drive by taxi
Nearby Cities to Temple:
Thoubal (25 km)
Bishnupur (30 km)
Moreh (110 km, Indo-Myanmar border town)
Nearby Visiting Temples and Other Places:
Kangla Fort (right beside the temple)
Shri Hanuman Thakur Temple
Ema Keithel (Women’s Market)
Loktak Lake (48 km)
INA Memorial at Moirang
Preferable Visiting Season:
October to March – Pleasant climate and major festivals like Ras Leela, Yaoshang (Holi)
Shopping Famous For?
Manipuri handloom & handicrafts
Traditional phaneks and sarongs
Black pottery from Ukhrul
Bamboo & cane products
Local jewelry and souvenirs from Ema Keithel (Women’s Market)
Shree Govindajee Temple is not only a spiritual destination but also a cultural landmark that reflects the devotion and traditions of Manipur. Whether you're a pilgrim, a history enthusiast, or a cultural explorer, the temple offers a serene and enriching experience. With its rich rituals, vibrant festivals, and warm hospitality, a visit to this sacred temple is sure to leave a lasting impression.
