Mount Koubru (Meeteilol:ꯀꯧꯕ꯭ꯔꯨ) also known as Mount Koupalu[2][3] is one of the highest mountains in Manipur, India and the abode of the god Lainingthou Koubru and the goddess Kounu in Manipuri mythology. Saparmeina town lies below the peak. It is located in the Kangpokpi district of Manipur and is one of the most visited pilgrimage sites in Manipur.[4]
| Mount Koubru | |
|---|---|
| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 6,993 ft (2,131 m)[1] |
| Coordinates | 25°03′47″N 93°52′18″E / 25.0630°N 93.8717°E |
| Geography | |
| Location | Manipur |
| Country | India |
The mountain is noted for mountain hiking as well as mountain climbing.[5][6][7][8]
The peak is part of Kanglatongbi Kangpokpi Reserved Forest,[9] which was declared in 1968 by the Government of Manipur under section 20 of the Indian FOREST Act 1927[10][11]
Mythological connection
Mount Koubru has served as an abode of the god Lainingthou Koubru and goddess Kounu since ancient times in Manipuri mythology, Manipuri literature and Manipuri culture. Mount Koubru is a main dwelling place of Lord Lainingthou Koubru, the protector deity of the Northern Kanglei world. The God Lainingthou Koubru lives with his consort Goddess Kounu and their sacred animal Shamu Laishaa Angouba, the White Elephant.[citation needed]
Cosmological relation
The mythology of ancient Meitei concerns study of cosmology as well as human body. Mount Koubru is considered the head of the body. Many letters of ancient Meetei Mayek including the letter ꯅ("ear" read as na) still exist atop this mountain. According to people of Manipur, the letters of Meetei Mayek also has its significance in cosmological belief that body of a warrior of Thang ta is remained protected by the letters in which Koubru protect the right side (ꯑ).[12]
Culture
Mount Koubru is considered as one of the primary pilgrimage sites by the Meitei people; the stone-formations at the peak are believed to be parts of a single human face, resembling the 27 alphabets of Meitei language.[12]