Often described as the jewel box of Manipur, the beautiful Manipur Zoological Gardens sprawl over an area of around 8 hectare and are one of the most popular attractions of the state. Home to as many as 400 species of animals and birds, the gardens are famed for inhabiting the graceful antlered deer called sangai, which is one of the world's rarest species. Surrounded by verdant forests and majestic hillocks, the park is blessed with a rich biodiversity and attracts nature and wildlife lovers with its diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can come across around 55 bird species at the park while the animal section of the park houses 420 species, the sangai being its highlight. The Manipur Zoological Gardens can be visited on all days of the week barring Mondays from 10 am to 4.30 pm.