July in Lamlai

It was a wonderful day!

I went for a trip to Lamlai in Imphal East with a few friends. We had a good time and came back relaxed, after having some good food and going for a wonderful drive around the neighbourhoods.

These days, you have to endure a lot of suffocation, both in literal and physical sense, because of the pandemic. However, I feel it is essential to take time off to chill out. Covid or no Covid, we are all going to die any way! But we can still take a moment to breath freely. And what could be better than doing it while indulging in the scenic beauty of the countryside?

So one fine July morning, (which was yesterday, 8 July) I went out with some of my friends. We went to Lamlai, located in the easternmost part of Imphal East. The place is flooded with natural beauty. Some of the corners in this assembly constituency, such as Silheipung and Chingnungkok, are popular places for long drives and picnics, and even musical concerts. One of the editions of the Where Have All The Flowers Gone? — in fact, it was the first edition of the annual art and music fest — was held in Chingnungkok. Yet I doubt people have fully explored the options that the place offers in terms of the space and the abundant natural beauty that radiates in every direction.

Lamlai is a kind of place that you can go often, and you can still experience the charm. Further east from there, the highway will take you to Ukhrul, which is entirely a hill district and the roads are all winding and slanted. Out here, though, you can enjoy the best of both worlds, with the convenience of the valley and the mystifying beauty of the hills and mountains. I will definitely feel the same thrill if I go back again.

Here is a collection of shots that I have taken from the delightful trip.