Mizoram
- Area:21,087 Square km
- Capital:Aizawl
- Language:Mizo, English
Mizoram is a small state located in the north eastern part of the country. A state with captivating natural beauty, Mizoram unfortunately has not been able to attract tourists in large numbers due to its remote geographic location. The landscape is marked by a number of hills, the highest being Phawang Phui rising to a height of 2065 metres. It is great to watch rivers running fast between the hills and making way to deep gorges. A pleasant climate and moderate rainfall further comes to the advantage of the state as a tourist destination.
During the ancient period, Mizoram is believed to be uninhabited. It was during the period 1750-1850 that migrations led to settlements in the hills. The British brought Mizoram under their rule in 1891 but left the administration of village areas to tribal chieftains. After independence, Mizoram was initially a part of Assam. Mizoram's statehood was formalized on 20th February, 1987.
Located 3500 feet above the sea level, Mizoram's capital Aizawl is a beautiful hill station. The State museum of Aizawl has an impressive collection of traditional Mizo items which throw light on the culture and tradition of the local people. The mini zoo of the place has different species of animals including the endangered sun bear. Located at a distance of 85 kms from Aizawl, Tamdil lake is visited by most tourist who come to Aizawl. Tamdil is also a popular picnic spot with a breathtaking scenery. Other attractions of Mizoram include Phawngpui, Sibuta Lung, Phulpui Graves, Memorial of Chhingpui, Pangzawal, Mangkahia Lung, Tomb of Vanhimailian and Tualchang.
The inhabitants of Mizoram are called Mizos. Mi means people while Zo means hills. The word Mizo therefore means people of the hills. The Mizos have many tribal groups- Ralte, Paite, Dulien, Poi, Sukte, Pankhup, Jahao, Fanai , Molbem, Taute, Lakher, Dalang, Mar, Khuangli, Falam, Leillul and Tangur. Mizoram celebrates three main festivals namely Chapchar Kut, Mim Kut and Pawl Kut. All the festivals are related to agricultural activities. Feasts and dances are an integral part of the festivities.
Khumbeu ceremonial bamboo hat is the most popular product of Mizoram. The hat is made of waterproof wild Hnathial leaves. Among the other shopping items of Mizoram are decorative items made of bamboo and cane.
To reach Mizoram, tourists can take a direct flight to Aizawl from Kolkata or Guwahati. State carrier Indian Airlines operates regular flights to Aizawl. Mizoram does not have rail connectivity. Lumding in Assam is the nearest railhead from Aizawl. Direct bus services are available to Aizawl from Guwahati. National highway 44 connects the state with rest of the country.
Places of Interest
Aizawl
Aizawl means the home of the highlandersgiving clear hints that it is a place located in high altitudes. Located at an altitude of 3500 feet above the sea level, Aizawl is the capital of Mizoram, a small state in the northeastern part of the country. The exotic natural beauty of the place captivates tourists. River Tlawng flows on the east of Aizawl while Durtlang hills are to the north. Though winters in Aizawl are very cold, the climate remains pleasant for rest of the year. Aizawls distance from Guwahati is 466 kms.
How To Reach:
- By Air:State carrier Indian Airlines operates regular flights to Aizawl from Kolkata and Guwahati.
- By Rail:Lumding in Assam is the nearest railhead from Aizawl.
- By Road: By road transport, Aizawl can be approached only through Silchar in Assam. Silchar is at a distance of 140 kms from Aizawl. Aizawl is connected to the rest of the country via Silchar by National Highway 44. Buses are available to Aizawl from Guwahati and other capitals of north eastern states.
Places to See:
Aizwal Town, Mizoram State Museum, The Weaving Centre, Bora Bazar, Luangmual Handicrafts Centre, Zoo.