Explore the unexplored destinations - Shirui Kashong Timrawon

Photographs by Wurngam Ruivah

Perched high in the verdant, mist-clad Shirui Hills of Manipur, India, grows one of the world’s most extraordinary and rare flowers—the Shirui Lily (Lilium mackliniae). This exquisite flower is found nowhere else on Earth, flourishing solely within a narrow altitude range of 1,700 to 2,200 meters above sea level. Discovered in 1946 by the famed British botanist Frank Kingdon-Ward and named after his wife Jean Macklin, the lily enchants with its delicate bell-shaped blossoms in gentle hues of pink, lavender, and white. Each year, in the early days of May, the hills burst into bloom, painting the landscape with a surreal carpet of floral beauty that draws botanists, nature lovers, and photographers from around the globe.

The Shirui Lily’s survival is intimately tied to the unique climate and ecology of the Shirui Hills—a pristine region characterized by cool temperatures, high humidity, and abundant monsoon rainfall. Its delicate petals and slender stems are finely attuned to this microclimate and the acidic, well-drained soils of the region. Attempts to cultivate or transplant the lily beyond its native habitat have failed, underscoring its ecological fragility. This exclusivity, while enchanting, also makes the species extremely vulnerable to threats such as habitat loss due to deforestation, shifting weather patterns linked to climate change, and increased human activity like tourism and agriculture. Conservationists emphasize that protecting the Shirui Hills’ entire ecosystem is crucial to preserving this natural wonder.

Integral to this preservation effort are the Tangkhul Nagas, the indigenous people of the Shirui Hills, who have lived in harmony with the land for centuries. For the Tangkhuls, the Shirui Lily is not just a flower but a sacred emblem interwoven with their cultural identity and spiritual beliefs. Their traditional knowledge of the forest and sustainable agricultural practices have helped shield the lily’s fragile habitat from destruction. The Tangkhuls’ deep respect for nature is expressed through folklore, ritual songs, and community-led conservation efforts, which celebrate the lily as a symbol of purity, resilience, and the sacred bond between people and their environment.

Each year, the vibrant Shirui Lily Festival brings to life this profound connection between nature and culture. Held in the Ukhrul district, the week-long celebration coincides with the peak bloom and offers a dazzling display of Tangkhul traditions—colorful tribal dances, rhythmic folk music, intricate handloom weaving, and authentic cuisine. The festival also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the lily’s endangered status and promote eco-friendly tourism. Visitors are invited to explore the breathtaking hills, interact with the local communities, and witness the delicate Shirui Lily in full bloom—a rare and humbling encounter that fosters a deeper appreciation of biodiversity and cultural heritage.

Beyond the lily itself, the Shirui Hills boast remarkable biodiversity, including hundreds of species of orchids, medicinal plants, butterflies, and birds such as the Blyth’s tragopan and the hornbill, both of which hold ecological significance. The area’s rich flora and fauna are supported by the forest’s ancient trees and moss-covered slopes, making it a hotspot for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike. Efforts by environmental groups and local authorities continue to focus on habitat restoration, pollution control, and sustainable visitor management to ensure the longevity of this ecological treasure.

For the discerning traveler or botanist, a journey to Shirui is an invitation to witness an unparalleled spectacle of nature coupled with the warmth of Tangkhul hospitality. The Shirui Lily, with its fragile beauty and profound symbolism, stands as a living reminder of the delicate balance between humanity and the natural world. Visiting this remote sanctuary offers more than just scenic vistas—it offers a chance to connect with a rare botanical gem and a vibrant culture dedicated to preserving their shared heritage for future generations.

Regular passenger buses and taxis ply daily between Imphal, the state capital of Manipur, and Ukhrul, the gateway to the Shirui Hills. Imphal is served by Manipur’s sole international airport—Bir Tikendrajit International Airport—which maintains regular domestic flights connecting to major Indian cities. Additionally, Manipur is well-linked to neighboring states via the national highway network through Guwahati and Dimapur. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, cultural explorer, or photographer, Shirui awaits to offer an unforgettable journey into one of India’s most enchanting and fragile natural wonders.

Happy traveling!