Things to do in Mizoram

Mizoram, the land of the Mizos or the Highlanders who belong to the Mongoloid race, exudes an exotic charm of its own. Mizoram is a mountainous state nestling in the southern tip of the north-east region of India. From the lush forests dominated by thick bamboo groves, numerous waterfalls that gush down the narrow gorges to confluence into large meandering streams in the deep valleys, dotted with unique landmarks of myriad folklores and picturesque villages of houses built on stilts, Mizoram is a land of dramatic seas of morning mists that enfold islands of hills and peaks.

Shopping In Aizawl

Mizos are known for their fashion and Aizawl is the main shopping destination with many shops that sell local and imported clothes. Dawrpui is the hub, which houses the main shopping places like Millennium Centre, Zion Street and Bara Bazar, where one would find stalls selling hand-woven traditional garbs, finely-woven handloom shawls, colourful bags and bamboo handicrafts. Mizoram’s exquisite shawls and bags are adorned with traditional patterns, which are woven by Mizo women from cotton and woollen yarns on the loin-loom. The Khumbeu, a ceremonial Mizo hat is made using the waterproof hnahthial leaves. The Government’s Handloom Emporium at Ritz market and Luangmual Handicrafts Centre are the best places to buy handcrafted items. Zohanco in Zarkawt has shawls, traditional Mizo puans, bags and furnishing material for homes. There are also several privately owned local handloom, weaving, fashion accessories and handicrafts brands such as Zozia, the Ethnic Warehouse, Lenbuang, Ngote, Hnamchhantu Pawl, Zonun Sang Handlooms, TL Handlooms etc., scattered throughout the city. Other interesting shopping centres would be the New Market, Ritz Market, Bazar Bungkawn, Lalbuaia Shopping Complex, Zodin Square, TS Market, Thakthing Bazar and Solomon's Cave, a shopper’s paradise for imported garments, cosmetics and shoes.

Castle Of Beino, Kolodyne River, Siaha District

The Western Region of Saiha in the Southern part of Mizoram boasts of a mesmerising rock formation that resembles a castle. It is known for its geological marvel which is the craftsmanship of nature: a true feast for the eyes. Set in the pristine river of Kolodyne, Castle of Beino is a sprawling alley of rocks about 10 metres high on both sides of the river. The locals believe it to be a cursed castle and has mystical folklore surrounding it. It is said that the river queen of spirits inhabits the place acting as an ombudsman. This unfrequented destination must be explored with one’s own eyes for its untold beauty to be unravelled. Though it is not easily accessible during the monsoon season, the ideal time to visit is during the month of February to May. A motorboat and a local guide can be hired at reasonable rates.

Trekking At Reiek Mountain, Reiek, Mamit District

Reiek is a mountain and tourist spot 29 km from Aizawl. It rests at an elevation of 1465 m overlooking Aizawl, and offers a view of the surrounding valleys and hills. On a clear day, the plains of Bangladesh can be seen from the top of the hill. A short climb uphill brings one to a quiet space where the Reiek Tourist Complex stands, offering cheap accommodation and decent food at the nine-tabled cafeteria. A walk up the forested mountain is a trekker’s delight. For the more adventurous, a small path also winds through the thicker jungle from Ailawng village, leading up to a beautiful meadow. It is ringed by wild grass taller than most men and where, if one is lucky enough, one might spot a grazing serow or even a wild boar. The mountain forest is a 200 sq. km blanket of trees that villagers have protected for decades from forest fires and outsiders alike.

The Tourist Resort also has rock-climbing gyms, shooting range, outdoor camping infrastructure, mountain biking trail, ziplining, zorbing, a children’s play area and other outdoor activities for the adventurous visitor.

Paragliding

The adventurous visitor to Mizoram can try paragliding, a relatively new sport here, though Vanlaiphai–about 86km from Aizawl - Thenzawl and Durtlang hills have already become popular paragliding sites. Paragliding has been practised at a place called Chuanhnuai that is between Serchhip town and Keitum Village along the National Highway NH 54 since 2012. It has now become so popular that a Paragliding Festival was even organised once, attracting Paragliders from other states as well.