Question 1

What is Meitei architecture style?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

Where is Meitei architecture style architecture found?

Accepted Answer

Meitei architecture style architecture is primarily found in Manipur. There are 5 heritage sites documented with this architectural style.

Question 3

When was Meitei architecture style architecture used?

Accepted Answer

Meitei architecture style architecture was used during Pre-Colonial, Colonial, Post-Independence, 18th Century CE, 19th Century CE. It is associated with the Ningthoukhongjamba dynasty, Ningthoukhongjamba Dynasty, Meitei Kingdom, Ningthoukhongjam Dynasty dynasty/period.

Question 4

What materials are used in Meitei architecture style architecture?

Accepted Answer

Meitei architecture style architecture typically uses Timber, Bamboo, Thatch, Mud, Wood, Brick. These materials are characteristic of this architectural style and reflect the construction techniques of the period.

Question 5

Which heritage sites use Meitei architecture style architecture?

Accepted Answer

There are 5 heritage sites documented with Meitei architecture style architecture. 4 sites use this as their primary architectural style. You can explore these sites on the Inheritage Foundation website.

Title	Meitei architecture style 4.5/5(Based on 5 heritage sites) Uncommon 4.5/5(Based on 5 heritage sites)
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.
Also Known As	Vernacular Manipuri Religious Architecture Timber construction thatched roof. Traditional Meitei Architecture Hindu Temple Architecture Vernacular Manipuri Architecture Indigenous Meitei Construction Techniques Assamese Temple Style Tai Ahom Influences Burmese Architectural Elements Indo-Burmese Vernacular Syncretic blend of styles. Meitei Traditional Architecture Influence of Shan Architecture (Burmese) Elements of Tai Architecture Traces of British Colonial Architecture Anglo-Manipuri Military Fortification Defensive Ramparts ditches strategic positioning Mughal Architecture Rajput Military Architecture Indigenous Meitei Architecture Assamese Hill Architecture Traditional Hindu Temple Architecture (traces) Shan Architecture (Burmese influence) Vernacular Manipuri Religious. Timber-framed Traditional Manipuri Architecture Vernacular Architecture Hindu Temple Architecture (general) Bamboo Timber Construction Traditions Manipuri Vernacular Religious Symbolic Representational Hindu Temple Architecture (with regional variations) Indigenous Tribal Architecture of Manipur Assamese Temple Style (some similarities in roof styles) Influence of Shaktism (as reflected in the deity worshipped) Elements of Buddhist Architecture (subtle influences in decorative motifs) Nagara Architecture (minor influences) Dravidian Architecture (very minor if any)
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-STY-6925019710-14:21:21:17:07:19:MAS`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/styles/meitei-architecture-style
API Endpoint	`https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/meitei-architecture-style`
Total Sites	5
Primary Sites	4
Created	November 19, 2025
Last Updated	November 29, 2025

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

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.

Meitei architecture style

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Heritage Sites (5)

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How to Identify Meitei architecture style

Frequently Asked Questions

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%