Mizoram
About Mizoram
Known as the ‘Songbird of India’, the northeastern state of Mizoram is one of the smallest states in India. The moderate climate of Mizoram, which is comfortable even in during summer makes it an attractive destination for all the tourists. The vast culture and grand festivals of the state have a unique, irresistible charm which can not be explained or read; it can only be felt once you are in the peaceful, serene land of Mizoram. The dense greenery and the 21 hill ranges that stretch throughout the territory of Mizoram is sure to take you surrounded to a different world. An Inner Line Pass is required to enter Mizoram. Mizoram offers you a calm, serene atmosphere with exciting outdoor activities in the beautiful lush green surroundings which keeps you close to the peaceful nature. With grand festivals, happy people wearing colourful traditional costumes, Mizoram welcomes you to explore its beauty and richness. Don’t forget to stop by the tribal artisans and get amazed by their unique talent and pick a traditional shawl for yourself as a souvenir. For non-vegetarian people, the food of the state will be a real treat while vegetarians will have to choose carefully from the dishes. If you love to be in nature’s arms, then Mizoram is the place for you! Indians need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter the state. The cost is INR 170 for a 15-day permit. The process to get an extension is slightly difficult. One can get an ILP documentation done at the Lengpui Airport in Aizwal.
Aizawl
Lying at a height of 1132 m above sea level, Aizawl is a quaint city and the capital of the state of Mizoram in northeast India. Primarily dominated by the Mizo Tribe, Aizawl and its surrounding areas are lush with rolling hills and abundant greenery. The city, along with the majority of the state is known for its agricultural produce and ethnic handicrafts and apparel. Aizawl is well connected via roads and air connectivity to other major hubs of northeast India such as Silchar and Guwahati in Assam. An important thing to note is that an Inner Line Pass or ILP is required for entry into Mizoram which is available on Guwahati, Silchar, Shillong, New Delhi and Kolkata.Among one of the oldest cities in the north eastern region of India, Aizawl, pronounced eye-zole, is a perfect place to relax while enjoying the local food and culture. Home to the Mizoram State Museum and few other tourist complexes, tourists have few options to enjoy a sightseeing tour in the city. Apart from these, one can take a tour to the nearby hilly areas of Hmuifang, Tamdil Lake and Chanmari.
Things to Do
Durtlang Hills
Located on the northern side of Aizawl, the Durtlang Hills is a popular attraction which houses viewpoints offering panoramic views of the capital city. One can drive to the destination and once there engage in a bit of light hiking and trekking. The best time to visit the Durtlang Hills would be in the morning when the sun is not as harsh as it would be during the afternoon.
Vantawng Falls
The highest waterfall in the state and the 13th highest in the country, the Vantawng Waterfalls is one of he most mesmerizing waterfalls of the North East. Vantawng falls are the pride of Mizoram and one of its prime attractions. The waterfall which is located 137 km away from the capital city of Aizawl is a gem in its own right. Tucked in between the verdant valleys with thick greenery around the waterfall seems like a river of white milk from distance.People flock from all directions of the state to have a look at its might and beauty. The waterfall can only be viewed from distance due to thick forest covering around it. It is located in the Vanva River near Thenzawl which is known for its rampaging speed of flow. Vantawng Falls are testament to the amazing natural beauty that is hidden within the North-East.
Mizoram State Museum
Located right in the centre of the city, this museum displays the rich heritage of Mizoram. Along with the numerous archaeological artifacts, photographs and natural history specimens, an entire gallery here is dedicated to the Mizo tribes.
Solomon Temple
Located in Kidron Valley, this is a grand temple for the locales here in Aizawl.
Lunglei
Literally meaning ‘the bridge of rock’, Lunglei is famous for its scenic beauty and natural setting. It is a small town, located around 170 km south of Aizawl whose name is derived from a bridge shaped rock found along Nghasih which is a tributary of the river Tlawng. Lunglei is an ideal offbeat destination for those who love natural sightseeing and adventure activities bundled into one. Trekking, bird watching and camping are among the popular activities opted by tourists coming to visit Lunglei.Lunglei is a biodiverse region, home to Thorangtlang Wildlife Sanctuary and Saza Wildlife Sanctuary. While Saza Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for hosting migratory and endemic bird species, Thorangtlang Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several animal species such as leopards, tigers, porcupines and leaf monkeys among many. Visiting the Lunglei Rock Bridge at the Nghasih stream is another popular activity while here. For those looking to learn about the culture and traditions of the region, the Saikuti Hall is a must-visit.
Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary
Spread over an area of 35 sq km, this wildlife sanctuary is known for its variety of species of wildlife like the wild boar, hoolock, gibbon, and the sambar deer. This sanctuary is located at a height of 1300 m from sea level.
Lunglei Sightseeing
This town is picturesque in itself. Rather than certain sightseeing options like monuments or view-points, one can enjoy the lush greenery, trekking routes and interacting with the local people here.
Champhai
The town of Champhai on the eastern border of Mizoram close to the Indo-Myanmar border is the administrative headquarters of the Champhai district. It is located at a distance of 188 Kms from the capital of Aizawl and is strategically and commercially important for the state of Mizoram as well as for India. Champhai and its surrounding regions are primarily known for their natural beauty and vast valleys of rice fields. It is known as the ‘Rice Bowl of Mizoram’ due to being a major region of rice cultivation. Also, its vibrant seasonal orchids lend it a certain romanticism and aesthetic appeal.Champhai has a number of tourist attractions mostly including natural settings. These include a cave called the Kungawrhi Puk, a river called Tiau Lui, Lianchhiari Lunglen Tlang and a few more. Rih Dil Lake is another famous natural attraction known to Champhai and the state of Mizoram. Adventure enthusiast can indulge in some trekking at the Thasiama Seno Neihna which is about 83 Kms south of Champhai.
Rih Dil
This heart shaped lake is believed to be the passage of souls to the eternal abode. It cannot be visited without prior permission from the Deputy Commissioner’s Office.
Murlen National Park
Spread over 100 sq km with sub tropical evergreen forests, this national park is famous for housing animals like the hoolock gibbon, and the Himalayan Black Bear. Leopards, tigers and many other species are spotted here
Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary
Located very near the Murlen National Park, this sanctuary is home to animals like the barking deer, rhesus macaque, wild boar as well as leopard. Tigers and gorals are also found here.