Zaimeng Lake

Zaimeng Lake, located in Kangpokpi, Manipur, is a high-altitude freshwater lake situated at about 2,176 meters (7,252 feet) on the Maraobou Range, part of the Khongtheng mountain ranges. The lake covers an area of roughly 1500 by 650 feet and is known locally by the Liangmai Naga word "Zaimeng," meaning "puzzle" or "perplex," named because the forefathers of a nearby village used to find it confusing to navigate around it.

The lake consists mostly of a vast marshy area with thick grass-like weeds, reeds, and green mosses, alongside a smaller clear water section, resembling a huge crater. It plays a vital ecological role as a natural water reservoir supplying water to two important rivers of Manipur, the Irang and Imphal rivers, supporting local biodiversity, including a rare salamander species known as the Crocodile Newt that inhabits the lake.

The lake's surroundings were once richly forested, but deforestation has impacted the area. Zaimeng Lake is also culturally significant and has become a popular local picnic spot while drawing attention for conservation efforts due to its unique ecological and aesthetic importance. The water remains so clean that no leaves or dirt float on it, attributed to an unseen bird that keeps it clear.