Imphal lies at a height of 790 meters amidst wooded hills, valleys and lakes. A charming city, Imphal serves as the base to various excursions within the state of Manipur, home to varieties of orchids and the 'sangal' dancing deer. Within the city itself is the Vaishnavite Shri Govindaji temple, famous for its two gold domes, where ceremonial dances are often held. Next to the temple are the ruins of the palace of the erstwhile rulers of the state.

The Khwairamband bazaar, or the local marketplace, is also very interesting and a great place to buy Manipuri wicker-work, basketry and weavings, as well as provisions, fruit and vegetables.

Close to Imphal are the Loktak lake with its 'fumdis' or floating islands, the Keibul Lamjao National Park, ancient temples at Bishnupur and Kaina, and various places of interest and exotic hill resorts.