The World’s Only Floating National Park | Keibul Lamjao National Park

Keibul Lamjao National Park in Manipur is an ecological marvel and is considered the world’s only floating national park. Located on the southeastern shores of Loktak Lake, the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, this unique park spans around 40 square kilometers. What sets Keibul Lamjao apart is the presence of floating islands, known as phumdis, which are a natural blend of soil, vegetation, and organic matter that float on the lake’s surface.

Here are some key points about Keibul Lamjao National Park and its significance:

1. Phumdis: The park’s floating phumdis are thick mats of decomposed vegetation that can support both plant and animal life. They float on the water during the wet season and settle on the lakebed during the dry season, making them a crucial part of the lake’s ecosystem.
2. Sangai Deer (Cervus eldi eldi): Keibul Lamjao is the last natural habitat of the endangered Sangai, also called the Manipur brow-antlered deer. Locally known as the dancing deer because of its graceful movement across the floating phumdis, the Sangai holds significant cultural and ecological importance for Manipur.
3. Conservation Efforts: The park was declared a national park in 1977 to protect the habitat of the Sangai, which was once thought to be extinct in the 1950s. However, a few were rediscovered in the 1970s, leading to urgent conservation measures. Today, the park remains a critical conservation site for this rare species.
4. Biodiversity: Besides the Sangai, the park hosts a variety of wildlife, including Hog Deer, Indian Otter, and various migratory birds. It is a biodiversity hotspot for aquatic flora and fauna, adding to its ecological significance.
5. Loktak Lake: The park is closely linked to Loktak Lake, which provides water and supports the entire ecosystem of the national park. Loktak is also vital for local communities, providing fish and water for irrigation.
6. Cultural Importance: The Sangai deer is a symbol of pride for the people of Manipur, and its preservation has become a significant part of the state’s identity. The annual Sangai Festival celebrates Manipur’s rich culture, natural heritage, and the importance of protecting the Sangai.

Keibul Lamjao National Park’s floating ecosystem and its role in the conservation of the Sangai make it one of the most unique and ecologically significant regions in the world.

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