Nestled in the highlands of Ukhrul district, Manipur, Shirui Hills stands as a majestic blend of natural wonder, cultural heritage, and eco-tourism promise. Revered for the legendary Shirui Lily, which blooms nowhere else on earth, these hills have become a beacon for nature lovers, adventurers, and cultural explorers alike.
Location & Physical Majesty
The Shirui Hills rise to around 8,500 feet (2,570–2,835 meters) above sea level, just 15–18 kilometres northeast of Ukhrul town and approximately 83–97 kilometres from Imphal, Manipur’s capital. Encompassing dense forests, rolling meadows, and cascading rivers, the region is renowned for its panoramic vistas and cool, rejuvenating air.
How to Reach Shirui Hills
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Imphal International Airport, with direct flights connecting to major Indian cities. Helicopter services are sometimes operated during festivals for a quick aerial route to Ukhrul.
- By Road: Shirui is 18 km from Ukhrul (connected via NH 150 Imphal-Kohima) and about 97 km from Imphal. Regular bus and shared taxi services operate from Khuman Lampak Bus Terminal in Imphal.
- By Train: The nearest railhead is at Dimapur, Nagaland.
Key Details:
- All costs are indicative and may vary according to season, type of transport or accommodation chosen.
- Trekking fees and entry charges are current as of 2025; confirm locally before planning.
- Shirui Lily blooms only in May–June; this is the peak and most unique time to visit.
Historical Roots & Cultural Tapestry
The history of Shirui Hills is intertwined with the Tangkhul Naga tribe, its primary inhabitants. Legends speak of the protective spirit Kashong Timrawon residing atop the peaks, embodying the region’s reverence for nature. The area has also played a pivotal role in the state’s post-independence identity, evolving from tribal heritage to statewide cultural showcase at the annual Shirui Lily Festival.
The Rare Shirui Lily
Lilium Mackliniae, better known as the Shirui Lily, is the iconic symbol of Manipur. First documented by British botanist F. Kingdom Ward in 1946 and named after his wife Jean Macklin, the lily’s faint pinkish petals display iridescent hues under sunlight. Declared the state flower in 1989, it achieves full bloom only between April and June atop Shirui’s peaks. Attempts to cultivate this lily elsewhere have failed, adding to its mystique and global botanical significance.
Festivals: Shirui Lily Festival
Started in 2017 and held every May to coincide with the Lily’s blooming, the Shirui Lily Festival is Manipur’s flagship tourism event. The five-day celebration blends cultural pride and ecological awareness, featuring:
- Traditional music, dance, and art from Ukhrul’s Tangkhul Naga and other tribes
- Culinary showcases of indigenous cuisine
- The ShiRock international music festival
- Beauty pageants, weaving and textile exhibition, SheChef cooking competition, and a range of eco-adventure sports
- Attractions at multiple venues, including Shirui Village, TNL Ground, Phangrei, and Bakshi Ground
The festival attracts tourists from across India and internationally, drawing over 2.19 lakh visitors in 2022 and generating more than ₹14 crore in revenue. It empowers local artisans, promotes crafts like Longpi black pottery, and boosts the regional economy through homestays and hospitality.
Key Tourist Spots & Attractions
Shirui Hills & Shirui National Park
- Rich biodiversity with rare lilies, orchids, rhododendrons, and subtropical forests.
- This area is home to endangered wildlife such as Blyth’s Tragopan, clouded leopards, hornbills, and vibrant butterfly species.
- Trekking routes of moderate intensity, offering picturesque ridge walks and challenging summit climbs across three major peaks.
Kangkhui Lime Caves
- Prehistoric limestone caves with evidence of Stone Age habitation, a haven for history and archaeology enthusiasts.
Longpi Village
- Renowned for the unique craft of black pottery, mixing serpentine stone with clay. An essential stop for culture-curious travellers.
Bakshi Ground & ShiRock
- The venue for the much-anticipated ShiRock music festival, bringing together global and Indian musical talent annually.
Revenue, Development & Heritage Projects
Tourism, especially centred on the Shirui Lily Festival, has emerged as a significant revenue generator; recent festivals have clocked multimillion rupee returns for the region, with returns on investment up to 31%. The state has also launched the Shirui Heritage Village and Bakshi Ground project with an unprecedented outlay of Rs 64.99 crore, aimed at positioning Ukhrul as a global eco-tourism hub, only rivalled by the scale of valley district initiatives.
The project aims to support local artisans, promote Tangkhul textiles and heritage, and create jobs, but has sometimes been marred by reports of fund mismanagement and project execution concerns. Local leadership continues to call for transparent and accountable practices, seeking to ensure that development is both culturally inclusive and beneficial to residents.
Culture & Local Life
Shirui and neighbouring villages are vibrant hubs of Tangkhul Naga customs and language. Locals take immense pride in their dialect, distinctive traditional attire, intricate bamboo and textile crafts, and the oral legends surrounding the hills and lilies. The annual festivities bring together diverse tribes, making Shirui a cultural melting pot in Manipur.
List of Places to Visit in and around Shirui Hills
| Place | Description |
|---|---|
| Shirui Kashong Peak | Picturesque meadows and an adventure activity spot |
| Shirui National Park | Dense forests, rare wildlife, and trekking trails |
| Shirui Village | Traditional Tangkhul Naga culture and crafts, festival venue |
| Kangkhui Lime Caves | Archaeological site with ancient rock formations |
| Longpi Village | Unique black pottery and craft traditions |
| Phangrei | Picturesque meadows and adventure activity spot |
| Bakshi Ground | Venue for ShiRock and cultural events |
| Ukhrul Town | Nearest town, with facilities, markets, and cultural spaces |
| Mapum & Lunghar Villages | Nearby villages, great for cultural walks and rural immersion |
Conservation and Challenges
Despite the ongoing celebration, Shirui Lily is endangered, facing threats from habitat loss and climate change. Conservation and responsible tourism are at the heart of local and state policy, imbuing every festival and tourism initiative with the spirit of sustainability. Recent debates over funding and infrastructure underscore the need for inclusive growth without environmental cost.
Getting Involved: Ecotourism, Culture, and Responsible Travel
Visitors to Shirui are encouraged to embrace the region with respect: use eco-friendly practices, support local businesses, and learn about indigenous heritage. From trekking the flower-laden hills to learning traditional weaving, engaging with the Tambnao community offers experiences that are both authentic and unforgettable.
Latest News
In September 2025, concerns grew over the Shirui Heritage Project, as locals and activists raised alarms about delayed infrastructure works linked to the annual Shirui Lily Festival. Calls for transparent bidding, local oversight, and proper use of the unprecedented Rs 64.99 crore allocation reflect Ukhrul’s expectations that the iconic festival’s global profile should finally translate into lasting local benefits. At stake is not just a tourism project, but the heritage, hope, and sustainable future of Shirui Hills.
FAQs About Shirui Hills
What is the best time to visit Shirui Hills?
The ideal period is from April to June, coinciding with the blooming of the Shirui Lily and festival celebrations.
How can Shirui Lily be seen in its natural habitat?
Trek to the peaks of Shirui Hills during the blooming season; it cannot be grown elsewhere, making the trek a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
What makes Shirui Lily unique?
It is an endangered species, grows only in this region, changes colour under light, and has deep local and scientific significance.
Is Shirui Hills safe for tourists?
Yes, Shirui is generally safe, especially during festivals, though certain stretches may be remote—travel with a guide is recommended for trekking.
What are the main festival highlights?
Festivals feature traditional dances, ShiRock music concerts, pageants, culinary competitions, eco-adventure sports, and more.
Are there accommodation options near Shirui Hills?
Homestays, guesthouses, and a few small hotels are available in Ukhrul town and Shirui village. Advance booking is advisable during festivals.
What local products should visitors buy?
Popular purchases include Tangkhul shawls, black pottery, bamboo crafts, and local lily-themed souvenirs.
How does Shirui Hills contribute to Manipur’s economy?
Through tourism, festivals, local crafts, and heritage projects, Shirui generates millions in visitor revenue, supports livelihoods, and sustains artisanal skills.
