The Shirui National Park was established in 1982 to protect the endangered Shirui Lily and the surrounding ecosystem. The lily itself was discovered in 1946 by the English botanist Frank Kingdon-Ward, who named it Lilium mackliniae after his wife. The area has long been revered by the local Tangkhul Naga tribes, who consider the lily sacred and an integral part of their cultural identity. Local folklore is intertwined with the flower, adding a mystical aura to the region. Prior to its declaration as a national park, the area was subject to deforestation and hunting, threatening the delicate balance of the ecosystem. The establishment of the park marked a significant step towards conserving this unique biodiversity hotspot and preserving the natural heritage of Manipur.