Authentic Meitei Culinary Trail & 7-Course Thali Masterclass
Born in Imphal, Memi has spent her life studying heirloom Manipuri kitchen recipes, wild forage herbs from the wetlands, and traditional fermented culinary heritage.
Experience Overview
Manipuri cuisine is celebrated as one of India’s most aromatic, herb-forward, and healthy culinary traditions. Begin the morning navigating the vibrant vegetable alleys of Ima Keithel, learning how to identify indigenous herbs like Maroi Nakupi (Chinese chives), Komprek (water celery), and authentic King Chilli (U-Morok). Then retreat to Memi’s traditional open-courtyard kitchen to prepare Singju salad, Eromba, Kangsoi herbal stew, and fragrant Chak-hao kheer.
What You Will Do
Ima Keithel Market Spice Walk
Explore the all-women market to handpick fresh wild greens, bamboo shoot (Soibum), and spices.
Kitchen Secrets: Fermentation & Fire
Demystify roasted chilies, herbs, and traditional clay-pot boiling techniques.
Cook 4 Classic Dishes
Hands-on preparation of crispy Singju, fragrant Kangsoi stew, and Black Rice pudding.
Shared Courtyard Feast
Sit down for an elaborate multi-course lunch served on banana leaves.
What is Included
- All culinary ingredients and market produce
- Printed recipe booklet to take home
- Sumptuous 7-course Meitei lunch and beverages
- Host guided market walk
What is Not Included
- •Hotel pickup and drop-off
Meeting Point & Directions
Ima Keithel Main Entrance Clock
Khwairamband Bazar, Imphal West, Manipur 795001
Directions: Host Memi will greet you wearing a traditional green embroidered Enaphi shawl.
What to Bring
Traveler Reviews
"Memi Devi is a treasure of Manipuri heritage. Walking through Ima Keithel with her gave us VIP access to traditional matriarchs and hidden wild herb stalls."