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Explore Loktak Lake: The Emotional Lake of Tears in Manipur

An Insight into the Cultural and Ecological Significance of Loktak Lake

Explore Loktak Lake: The Emotional Lake of Tears in Manipur

  • 05 Dec, 2025
  • 569

Introduction to Loktak Lake

Many lakes around the world are renowned for their unique features and captivating stories. Among them, Loktak Lake in Manipur holds a special place, often referred to as the Lake of Tears. This title resonates deeply with the emotions and histories tied to the lake, intertwining nature with human feelings.

The Meaning Behind the Name

Loktak Lake is affectionately called the Lake of Tears due to its rich tapestry of legends and emotional stories. Local beliefs recount tales of families who mourned lost loved ones during battles and natural disasters. The sorrowful prayers and memories of these families are said to have seeped into the calm waters of the lake, cementing its status as a symbol of tears and nostalgia.

Northeast India’s Largest Freshwater Lake

As the largest freshwater lake in Northeast India, Loktak Lake plays a crucial role in supporting local communities. It is vital for fishing, farming, and boating activities. The lake is particularly famous for its phumdis, which are floating islands created from a mix of plants and soil. These islands shift and change positions with the seasons, offering a stunning and dynamic landscape.

The World’s Only Floating National Park

Within Loktak Lake lies the Keibul Lamjao National Park, the only floating national park in the world. This unique park is entirely situated on the phumdis and serves as the habitat for the Sangai deer, also known as the “dancing deer” of Manipur. The park’s unique floating ground supports wildlife that is not found anywhere else, making Loktak Lake an ecological gem.

Interesting Facts About Loktak Lake

  • Natural Floating Islands: Loktak Lake is renowned for its large floating islands, the phumdis, which shift and reshape throughout the year.
  • Home to the Floating National Park: The Keibul Lamjao National Park is the last refuge for the rare Sangai deer, enhancing the lake's environmental significance.
  • A Massive Water Body: Spanning nearly 300 square kilometers, Loktak Lake is one of India's largest lakes and supports many livelihoods.
  • Lifeline of Manipur: Often called the Lifeline of Manipur, the lake provides essential resources for farming, drinking water, and electricity.

Conclusion

Loktak Lake, or the Lake of Tears, is more than just a body of water; it is a poignant emblem of human emotions, rich cultural heritage, and ecological diversity. Its unique features and the stories it holds make it a vital part of Manipur's identity.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. Why is Loktak Lake called the Lake of Tears?
Answer: Loktak Lake is called the Lake of Tears due to the emotional stories and legends associated with it, reflecting loss, love, and memory from local history.

Q2. What is unique about Keibul Lamjao National Park?
Answer: Keibul Lamjao National Park is unique as it is the only floating national park in the world, located entirely on phumdis and home to the rare Sangai deer.

Q3. What are phumdis?
Answer: Phumdis are floating islands made of vegetation and soil, unique to Loktak Lake, that change shape and position with the seasons.

Q4. How does Loktak Lake support local communities?
Answer: Loktak Lake supports local communities through fishing, farming, and tourism, providing essential resources for their livelihoods.

Q5. What is the ecological significance of Loktak Lake?
Answer: Loktak Lake is ecologically significant due to its biodiversity, including the unique wildlife found in Keibul Lamjao National Park and its role in local water management.

UPSC Practice MCQs

Question 1: What is Loktak Lake famously known as?
A) Lake of Tears
B) Lake of Joy
C) Lake of Dreams
D) Lake of Serenity
Correct Answer: A

Question 2: Which national park is located within Loktak Lake?
A) Kaziranga National Park
B) Keibul Lamjao National Park
C) Manas National Park
D) Nameri National Park
Correct Answer: B

Question 3: What unique feature does Loktak Lake possess?
A) Underground caves
B) Floating islands
C) Saltwater marshes
D) Hot springs
Correct Answer: B

Question 4: Which deer species is found in Keibul Lamjao National Park?
A) Sambar deer
B) Sangai deer
C) Chital deer
D) Barking deer
Correct Answer: B

Question 5: How large is Loktak Lake approximately?
A) 100 square kilometers
B) 200 square kilometers
C) 300 square kilometers
D) 400 square kilometers
Correct Answer: C

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