Neomaxer helps you discover extraordinary journeys — explore trails, experiences, activities, hotels, and flights, all curated to inspire your next trip.
Neomaxer helps you discover extraordinary journeys — explore trails, experiences, activities, hotels, and flights, all curated to inspire your next trip.
Neomaxer helps you discover extraordinary journeys — explore trails, experiences, activities, hotels, and flights, all curated to inspire your next trip.
Ima Keithel, which literally means “Mother’s Market,” is a defining symbol of Imphal tourism. Located in the center of the city, it is recognized as the world’s only all-women market, run entirely by more than 4,000 female traders. The market is divided into three sections: New Market, Old Market, and Paona Bazaar. Spread across two large market buildings, the women traders sell a wide variety of products including fresh food, textiles, household goods, traditional handicrafts, and the distinctive Meitei rice beer known as harma. What makes Ima Keithel truly remarkable is its uninterrupted women-led trading tradition that has continued for more than 500 years. The market reflects a rare matrilineal commercial system in Indian society, where trading stalls are passed down from mothers and grandmothers to the next generation of women. This deep-rooted cultural tradition makes the market an essential stop for anyone planning to visit Imphal.
What makes this place special
Ima Keithel is famous as the world’s only all-women market, with more than 4,000 female traders operating across three connected market buildings in the center of the city. A major landmark of Imphal tourism, the market represents a remarkable 500-year-old matrilineal commerce tradition that continues to thrive today. From fresh produce and textiles to traditional crafts and household goods, the market offers visitors an authentic glimpse into local life and Meitei culture.
Sampling traditional Meitei cuisine is one of the most authentic things to do in Imphal for travelers interested in local food and culture. Local dishes often feature fermented fish, a key ingredient in Manipuri cuisine, along with a variety of rice-based foods and handmade rice cakes prepared using traditional recipes passed down through generations. Visitors exploring Ima Keithel can also discover the region’s distinctive harma rice beer, which remains closely connected to local culinary traditions.
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Neomaxer helps you discover extraordinary journeys — explore trails, experiences, activities, hotels, and flights, all curated to inspire your next trip.