A quaint village located near Imphal in Manipur has managed to preserve its unique traditions and cultural practices in an exceptional manner. Among its treasures is a temple steeped in ancient folklore, and a rare pottery tradition practiced exclusively by married women. Additionally, the village is home to a cultural complex and heritage museum that showcases the vibrant culture of Manipur.
If you’re intrigued by what you’ve read so far, I’m delighted. Stay tuned to learn more about this emerging tourist spot in Manipur that’s recently been attracting considerable attention.
Yes, I’m referring to Andro in Manipur.
Andro Manipur
Nestled at the foothills of the Nongmaiching range in Manipur, Andro is a hidden paradise. My fascination with the village’s folklore and distinctive handicrafts was matched by the stunning natural beauty of the area. Surrounded by lush forests, Andro is also known for its expansive pineapple farms that dot the landscape.
Rich in ancient stories, Andro is a treasure trove of history, myths, and unique handicrafts, complemented by breathtaking scenery. Situated about 25 km from Imphal, this village captivated us enough to carve out time for a visit, even with our limited days in Manipur.
The Story of Andro Manipur
The name “Andro” is believed to be derived from “handro,” which in the local language means “the village of those who returned.”
During a period when Hinduism was gaining prominence in Manipur and the local king was promoting conversion in the Imphal Valley, a group of Meiteis chose to continue their indigenous practices. They were expelled from the valley and settled in a nearby hill. Centuries later, they returned to their original land, which then came to be known as Andro.
Ancient Temple at Andro Village in Manipur
The residents of Andro have preserved their heritage with great care. The warm and welcoming locals continue to uphold their traditions through various means, such as their unique pottery practices and the creation of a heritage complex-cum-museum. Andro offers a fascinating experience for historians, anthropologists, and curious travelers alike who are eager to learn about its culture.
Reaching Andro Manipur
Our journey to Andro began on a bright, sunny morning in Imphal, following a heavy rainfall. We set out early to witness the morning Aarti at Shree Govindajee Temple before heading to Andro.
Way Towards Andro in East Imphal
The drive to Andro was an adventure in itself. The winding roads outside Imphal and the refreshing mountain air made the journey exhilarating. I enjoyed the scenic views from the window as Agni captured the beauty with his camera.
After about an hour, we arrived in Andro. The village exuded an old-world charm, and our first stop was a quaint temple. We would explore this later, following Malem, our local guide, to the main attraction of Andro – the Heritage Cultural Complex.
Things to Do in Andro Manipur
Here’s what you shouldn’t miss during your visit to Andro:
- Visit Andro Heritage Cultural Complex
The Andro Heritage Cultural Complex, built in 1933 with the help of anthropologist Mutua Bahadur, also known as the Mutua Museum, was our first stop. Unlike traditional museums, this complex features several thatched huts representing the homes of different Manipur tribes. We saw models of Meitei, Paomai, Kuki, Tangkhul, and Kabui houses, along with displays of local handicrafts like pottery, wood carvings, bamboo baskets, fishing nets, musical instruments, jewelry, and clothing.
One highlight was an intricately carved totem pole in the center of the complex, adorned with various creatures and faces. The totem holds significant cultural value and is considered sacred by the villagers.
- Get Acquainted with Charai Taba
After the museum, we met a local school teacher who guided us to the pottery center. Charai Taba, a distinctive form of pottery practiced exclusively by married women, intrigued us. This pottery technique, which doesn’t use a wheel, involves stacking loops of clay to form pots. The process, known as coil pottery, is passed down through generations during a ceremony called “Thou Chanba.”
At the pottery center, we observed women crafting pots and clay figurines, and we learned about the role of pottery in the village’s daily life. The artisans’ skill and the intricate process of making Charai Taba were truly impressive.
- Visit Andro Santhei National Park
Our next stop was Andro Santhei National Park, a tranquil area with a well-maintained garden and a large water reservoir. The park is a popular picnic spot for locals, and we had the chance to join a group of girls preparing a local dish made from raw mango, cabbage, fish, and herbs. The dish was a delightful culinary experience, even if it’s not something I’d typically include in my daily diet.
- Get a Taste of the Local Wine
We concluded our visit with a taste of Sekmai, the local rice wine of Andro. Our guide invited us to her home, where we enjoyed pineapples and sampled this traditional brew. Sekmai, made from fermented rice mixed with Yangli creeper stems, has been a part of the village’s culture for centuries. The wine is used in various rituals and ceremonies, highlighting the deep connection between local traditions, pottery, and brew.
- Pay Respect to the Local Deity of Andro
Before leaving, we visited the village temple dedicated to Panam Ningthou, the local deity. The temple, with its unique architecture, houses a sacred fire believed to have been burning since the 1st century AD. The serene atmosphere of the temple left a lasting impression on us, adding a touch of tranquility to our visit.
How to Reach Andro Manipur
Andro is approximately 25 km from Imphal, and you can reach the village by cab in about 45 minutes. A day trip from Imphal is feasible, as the city is well-connected by flights and buses. There is currently no railway connectivity to Imphal.
Where to Stay at Andro
There are no accommodations available in Andro at present, but the villagers are considering the construction of homestays. For now, staying in Imphal and visiting Andro as a day trip is a practical option.
