Mapal Kangjeibung (Polo Ground) - Image 1
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Mapal Kangjeibung Polo Ground

4.8
·5 reviews·Imphal, India

Step onto Mapal Kangjeibung, the world's oldest polo ground, where modern polo began. Experience the thrill of Sagol Kangjei and centuries of traditio...

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

November

International Polo Tournament

CrowdHigh
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Mapal Kangjeibung (Polo Ground) - Image 1

Mapal Kangjeibung Polo Ground

Best Time

November

International Polo Tournament

CrowdHigh

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Step onto Mapal Kangjeibung, the world's oldest polo ground, where modern polo began. Experience the thrill of Sagol Kangjei and centuries of tradition.

4.8
(5 reviews)

"The oldest polo ground in the world, a place where kings and nobles once played the historical game polo."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Event Schedules

Plan your visit around major tournaments like the Manipur International Polo Tournament for the best experience.

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can be challenging, so aim to arrive well before the event starts to secure a spot.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

World's Oldest Polo Ground

World's Oldest Polo Ground

Step onto the historic Mapal Kangjeibung, the birthplace of modern polo, and feel the echoes of ancient games.

Sagol Kangjei Matches

Sagol Kangjei Matches

Witness the exhilarating sport of Sagol Kangjei, the traditional Manipuri polo, played with passion and skill.

Manipur International Polo Tournament

Manipur International Polo Tournament

Experience the grandeur of international polo when teams from around the globe compete here.

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Planning Your Visit

Experience the Birthplace of Polo

Visit Mapal Kangjeibung, the world's oldest polo ground, where modern polo originated. Immerse yourself in centuries of tradition and witness the thrilling Sagol Kangjei.

Event Timing is Key

Check the schedule for the Manipur International Polo Tournament or other major events. These are the best times to experience the vibrant atmosphere and witness professional play.

Best Times

When
November
Why
International Polo Tournament
Crowd
High
When
During local festivals
Why
Cultural events and matches
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The SAGOL KANGJEI and the oldest polo ground in the world THE MAPAL KANGJEIBUNG #manipur
million_thongram
72 likes • 1.5K views

Check Event Schedules

Plan your visit around major tournaments like the Manipur International Polo Tournament for the best experience. Instagram

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can be challenging, so aim to arrive well before the event starts to secure a spot. Reddit

A glimpse of the prestigious Manipur Polo Club 🌎 The main venue is the historic Imphal Polo Ground (Meitei: Mapal Kangjeibung), organized by the Manipur Horse Riding and Polo Association (MHRPA) to promote the game across India and the world.
pologirls
9 likes • 318 views
Elegance meeting velocity. The 15th Manipur International Polo Tournament 2025 at Imphal’s iconic Mapal Kangjeibung, the world’s oldest living polo ground. #manipurtourism #sangaifestival2025 #manipurinternationalpolo
manipurtourismofficial
183 likes • 4.4K views

Comfortable Seating

The stadium offers comfortable seating, making it enjoyable to watch the entire match. Reddit

Embrace the History

Appreciate the rich legacy of this ground, where kings and nobles once played. Reddit

World's Oldest Polo Ground #Mapal #Kangjeibung is located in Imphal, Manipur. #Sagol #Kangjei (Modern Polo) took birth from the state of #Manipur. #manipurtourism #sagolkangjei #modernpolo #kangjeibungpologround #polomanipur
manipurtourguide
17 likes • 388 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Event Schedules

Plan your visit around major tournaments like the Manipur International Polo Tournament for the best experience. Instagram

Arrive Early for Parking

Parking can be challenging, so aim to arrive well before the event starts to secure a spot. Reddit

Comfortable Seating

The stadium offers comfortable seating, making it enjoyable to watch the entire match. Reddit

Embrace the History

Appreciate the rich legacy of this ground, where kings and nobles once played. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.8
(5 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Mapal Kangjeibung as the historic birthplace of polo, offering a unique cultural experience. The stadium provides comfortable seating for enjoying matches, and the atmosphere during events is often described as exciting. However, parking can be a significant challenge, and the grass maintenance of the field is noted as an area for improvement.

"The ground is a traditional polo field and also a football field. The grass is not well maintained. However it hosts most of the important events at manipur. The stadium is well made and comfortable for the crowd to sit and enjoy the sport. There is a parking problem, with not any big parking space around. Over all the match experience was good."

sheel singh

"Oldest polo ground in the world"

Rojendro Thingom

"A place where the kings and nobles once played the historical game polo😊"

Hraveikho S

What People Like

World's oldest polo ground
Historic significance
Exciting match atmosphere

What People Dislike

Parking difficulties
Grass maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mapal Kangjeibung is located in Imphal, Manipur. You can reach Imphal via air or road. From Imphal city center, local taxis and auto-rickshaws are readily available to take you to the polo ground. TikTok

While direct public buses might be limited, local auto-rickshaws and taxis are the most common and convenient ways to reach Mapal Kangjeibung from various parts of Imphal. TikTok

For a comfortable and efficient journey, hiring a local taxi or using ride-sharing apps (if available) is recommended. Auto-rickshaws offer a more budget-friendly option. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets are typically required for major events and tournaments, such as the Manipur International Polo Tournament. It's advisable to check for ticket availability and prices in advance for specific events. Instagram

The ground is generally accessible, but specific timings for public entry outside of event days might vary. For matches, entry is usually allowed a few hours before the game starts. Instagram

For general visits outside of major sporting events, there might not be an entry fee. However, for tournaments and special occasions, tickets are usually sold. Instagram

Tickets for major tournaments are often sold at the venue on the day of the event or through designated ticketing partners. It's best to inquire locally or check event announcements. Instagram

🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience

The field serves as both a traditional polo ground and a football field. While it hosts important events, the grass maintenance can vary. Reddit

Yes, the stadium is well-constructed with comfortable seating arrangements for the crowd to enjoy the sport. Reddit

The atmosphere is often electric, filled with excitement and the cheers of spectators, especially during international tournaments. Instagram+1

Information on specific accessibility facilities for disabled visitors is not widely available, but the stadium structure generally allows for viewing. Reddit

Parking can be a significant issue, as there isn't a large dedicated parking space around the ground. Arriving early is advised. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the action from the stands or the sidelines during matches. The historical architecture of the ground also offers great photo opportunities. Instagram

Generally, personal photography and videography are allowed for spectators, but professional equipment might require special permits. Instagram

Action shots of the polo players and horses, panoramic views of the historic ground, and candid moments of the crowd's excitement are popular. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mapal Kangjeibung can be a fascinating place for families, especially if you visit during a polo match. Children can be enthralled by the sight of horses and the fast-paced action of Sagol Kangjei. It's a great way to introduce them to a unique sport with deep historical roots. TikTokInstagram

When visiting with kids, consider bringing snacks and water, as facilities might be limited during non-event days. The open space of the ground can also be enjoyable for younger children to explore (under supervision, of course). Attending a tournament offers a more structured and engaging experience with a lively atmosphere. Instagram

🏇 Polo Enthusiasts

For true polo aficionados, Mapal Kangjeibung is a pilgrimage site. This is where the sport as we know it began, and experiencing Sagol Kangjei here is a profound connection to its origins. You'll witness a style of play that is both traditional and dynamic. TikTokInstagram

To get the most out of your visit, try to time it with the Manipur International Polo Tournament or other local matches. This will allow you to see the sport at its most vibrant and competitive. Engaging with local polo associations or guides can also provide deeper insights into the history and nuances of Manipuri polo. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Legacy of Sagol Kangjei

Mapal Kangjeibung is not just a polo ground; it's the cradle of modern polo. The indigenous Manipuri sport, Sagol Kangjei, has been played here for centuries, predating the sport's introduction to the West. It's believed that Britishers, during their colonial rule in India, witnessed Sagol Kangjei and adapted it into the game of polo known globally today. The ground itself is a testament to this rich heritage, having hosted royal games and significant cultural events for generations. TikTokInstagram

Visiting Mapal Kangjeibung offers a unique opportunity to connect with the origins of a world-renowned sport. The sheer historical significance of the site, where kings and nobles once engaged in this thrilling equestrian game, is palpable. It's a place where tradition meets athleticism, offering a glimpse into Manipur's vibrant cultural past. Reddit

When attending a match, you'll notice the distinct Manipuri style of play, often characterized by its speed and agility. The local ponies, known as Manipuri ponies, are also an integral part of this tradition, bred for their stamina and responsiveness. Experiencing Sagol Kangjei at its ancestral home is an unforgettable cultural immersion. TikTokInstagram

Experiencing the Manipur International Polo Tournament

The Manipur International Polo Tournament is a highlight event held at Mapal Kangjeibung, drawing international teams and enthusiasts. This prestigious tournament celebrates the sport's global appeal while firmly rooting it in its birthplace. It's an occasion where Manipur showcases its commitment to preserving and promoting Sagol Kangjei on a world stage. Instagram+2

Recent editions of the tournament have seen participation from countries like Colombia and the USA, adding an exciting international flavor to the competition. The event not only provides thrilling polo action but also serves as a cultural exchange, bringing together diverse participants and spectators. The opening ceremonies and matches are often grand affairs, filled with energy and enthusiasm. Instagram

Attending this tournament offers a fantastic opportunity to witness high-level polo in a historically significant setting. It's a chance to experience the vibrant atmosphere, the roar of the crowd, and the skillful play of both local and international polo players. Make sure to check the dates for the upcoming tournament to plan your visit accordingly. Instagram+1