Manipur is a state in northeastern India, making its capital in the city of Imphal. Manipur is bounded by the Indian states of Nagaland to the north, Mizoram to the south and Assam to the west; it also borders the country of Myanmar to the east.The Meiteis, who live primarily in the state's valley region, are one of the primary ethnic groups. Their language, Meiteilon ( also known as Manipuri ), is also the lingua franca in the state, and was recognized as one of India's national languages in 1992. The Kukis and Nagas live in the hills of the state. Manipur is considered a sensitive border state. Foreigners entering Manipur ( including foreign citizens born in Manipur ) must possess a Restricted Area Permit, which can be obtained from the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office in the "metros" ( Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata ) or certain other state government offices. Permits are valid for only 10 days, and visitors must travel only on tours arranged by authorised travel agents, in groups of four. Furthermore, they may come to Imphal only by air and are not permitted to travel outside the capital.