| Title | Meitei architecture style |
|---|---|
| Description | Meitei architecture, originating in Manipur, is characterized by its vernacular adaptations, often incorporating timber construction, thatched roofs, and indigenous construction techniques reflecting the region's unique cultural and environmental context. |
| Tags | Meitei Manipur Vernacular Timber Thatch Indigenous Lai Haraoba Umang Lai Sanamahism Meitei culture Vernacular architecture Vernacular Architecture Indigenous Design Traditional Building Manipur Culture Bamboo Sanamahi Religious symbolism Indigenous design |
| Style ID | INHF-997642110-18-11-25-MT |
| URI | https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/styles/meitei-architecture-style |
| API Endpoint | https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/styles/meitei-architecture-style |
| Total Sites | 5 |
| Primary Sites | 4 |
| Created | November 19, 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 19, 2025 |
| Regions | Manipur |
|---|
| Time Periods | Pre-Colonial Colonial Post-Independence 18th Century CE 19th Century CE |
|---|---|
| Dynasties | Ningthoukhongjamba dynasty Ningthoukhongjamba Dynasty Meitei Kingdom Ningthoukhongjam Dynasty |
| Sacred Contexts | Hindu temples Vernacular shrines Royal palaces Community shrines Laiphamlen (sacred groves) Umang Lai temples Sanamahi temples Sacred groves |
|---|---|
| Associated Deities | Vishnu Shiva Local deities Umang Lai (local deities) Umang Lai (forest deities) Hindu deities (later influence) Sanamahi Leimarel Sidabi Pakangba Hindu deities (Shaktism influence) |
| Primary Materials | Timber Bamboo Thatch Mud Wood Brick |
|---|---|
| Architectural Features | Thatched roofs Timber framing Elevated platforms Open pavilions Earthen walls Toranas Open courtyards Use of local materials Rectangular plan Gabled roofs Symbolic ornamentation |
| Keywords | Meitei Manipur Vernacular Timber Thatch Indigenous Lai Haraoba Umang Lai Sanamahism Meitei culture Vernacular architecture Vernacular Architecture Indigenous Design Traditional Building Manipur Culture Bamboo Sanamahi Religious symbolism Indigenous design |
|---|
| Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| The History of Manipur | Book | General reference on Manipuri culture and history |
| Traditional Architecture of Manipur | Article | Details the specific features of Meitei vernacular architecture. |
| Site Name | Status | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Chingnungkok Temple Imphal | Primary | 100% |
| Kangla Fort Imphal | Primary | 100% |
| Sanamahi Temple Imphal | Primary | 100% |
| Sanamahi Temple Imphal | Primary | 100% |
| Khongjom Fort Thoubal | Secondary | 100% |