Aizawl Travel Guide (Mizoram/North-Eastern India/India/South Asia/Asia)

If you’re looking for a unique travel destination that’s rich in culture, history, and natural beauty, look no further than Aizawl, the capital city of Mizoram in Northeastern India. Nestled amidst rolling hills and lush greenery, Aizawl boasts an enchanting blend of traditional and modern influences that makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler to India. From historic temples and museums to scenic viewpoints and outdoor adventures, there’s something for everyone in Aizawl.

Introduction to Aizawl

Aizawl is a vibrant and bustling city located in the picturesque hills of Mizoram in Northeastern India. Founded in 1890, Aizawl has grown to become the state’s largest city and the hub of its cultural, political, and economic activities. With a population of around 400,000 people, Aizawl is a cosmopolitan city that’s home to a diverse mix of indigenous Mizo people, as well as people from other parts of India and abroad.

The city is situated at an altitude of 1132 meters above sea level and is extended over a series of interconnected ridges and valleys along the Tlawng River. Aizawl boasts a moderate climate all year round, with cool and pleasant weather throughout the year.

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or just looking for a scenic retreat, Aizawl has something for you. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Aizawl:

List of Places to Visit in Aizawl

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Aizawl is steeped in history and culture, with a rich heritage that’s visible in its numerous museums, monuments, and temples. Here are some of the must-visit cultural attractions in Aizawl:

Mizoram State Museum: This museum is housed in a heritage building and is dedicated to showcasing the history and culture of Mizoram. It features a vast collection of artifacts, photographs, and displays that highlight the state’s unique traditions, festivals, crafts, and wildlife.
Reiek Tlang: This is a popular viewpoint located just outside of Aizawl. It offers panoramic views of the city and its surroundings, as well as a chance to see the famous “Mizo Hat” rock formation up close.
Bara Bazar: This bustling market is a great place to experience the local way of life and to shop for traditional crafts, clothing, and souvenirs. Make sure to try some of the local delicacies like bamboo shoot pickle, smoked meat, and Mizo-style noodles.
Aizawl Cathedral: This historic church is one of the most iconic landmarks of Aizawl, with its distinctive twin spires and Gothic-style architecture. It’s a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and anyone interested in the city’s religious history.

Natural Attractions of Aizawl: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

For those who love the great outdoors, Aizawl has plenty of options to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. Here are some of the best natural attractions to visit in and around Aizawl:

Durtlang Hills: These scenic hills are a popular spot for hiking and camping, and offer stunning views of the city and its surroundings. There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy to challenging.
Berawtlang Tourist Complex: This nature park is located just outside of Aizawl and features a variety of outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and horse riding. It’s a great place to relax and unwind amidst the beautiful natural surroundings.
Palak Lake: This beautiful lake is located about 130 km from Aizawl and is a popular destination for fishing, camping, and trekking. With its crystal-clear waters and lush greenery, it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Aizawl

Aizawl is a great place to explore on foot or by bike, with its hilly terrain and scenic trails. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in and around Aizawl:

Durtlang Hills Trek: This is a challenging trek that takes you through the scenic Durtlang hills, with breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. The trail is about 4 km long and takes around 2-3 hours to complete.
Aizawl to Thenzawl Bike Ride: This scenic bike ride takes you from Aizawl to Thenzawl, a picturesque town located about 80 km away. The route passes through lush forests, rolling hills, and quaint villages, offering stunning views along the way.
Lengpui to Chite Vanghla Trek: This is another challenging trek that takes you from Lengpui to Chite Vanghla, a remote village located in the hills. The trail is about 12 km long and takes around 6-7 hours to complete, but offers some of the most stunning scenic views of the region.

Best Things to Do in Aizawl: Activities and Tours

Apart from the above-listed attractions, Aizawl has plenty of other things to do and see. Here are some of the top activities and tours to check out:

Mizo Village Tour: This tour takes you to a traditional Mizo village, where you can experience the local way of life and learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage. You can try your hand at traditional crafts like weaving and bamboo work, and sample some of the local delicacies.
Aizawl Street Food Tour: If you’re a foodie, this tour is a must-do. It takes you on a culinary journey through the city’s bustling streets, where you can sample a variety of local delicacies like bamboo shoot pickle, smoked meat, and Mizo-style noodles.
Shopping Tour of Aizawl: This tour takes you to some of the best shopping destinations in Aizawl, where you can find everything from traditional crafts and clothing to modern electronics and accessories. Make sure to check out the famous Bara Bazar and Ritz Market.

Week-Long Itinerary for Aizawl

If you’re planning to spend a week in Aizawl, here’s a sample itinerary to make the most of your time:

Day 1: Arrive in Aizawl and check into your hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city and its local markets.

Day 2: Visit the Mizoram State Museum and the Aizawl Cathedral, followed by a hike to Durtlang Hills.

Day 3: Take a bike ride to Thenzawl and spend the day exploring the town and its surroundings.

Day 4: Visit the historic landmarks of the city, such as Solomon’s Temple and the KV Paradise Mansion.

Day 5: Take a nature hike to Chite Vanghla and enjoy the scenic views along the way.

Day 6: Take a tour of a traditional Mizo village and learn about the local way of life and culture.

Day 7: Spend the day shopping for souvenirs and exploring the city’s food scene.

Food and Drink Scene of Aizawl

Aizawl is known for its unique and flavorful cuisine, which draws influences from various tribal communities and neighboring regions. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Aizawl:

Must-Try Dishes

Bai: A traditional Mizo dish made with steamed vegetables and pork, served with sticky rice.
Vawksa rep (smoked meat): A popular meat dish that’s prepared by smoking pork, beef or chicken over a wood fire for several hours, resulting in a rich smoky flavor.
Zawlaidi: A sweet and spicy preparation made with fish and various herbs and spices.

Local Beverages

Zu: A local alcoholic beverage made from rice and fermented bamboo shoots.
Cha: A type of black tea that’s flavored with local spices like cinnamon and cardamom.

Where to Stay in Aizawl: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Aizawl offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. Here are some of the best hotels, hostels, and guesthouses in Aizawl:

Hotel Floria: This is a luxury hotel located in the heart of the city, with spacious rooms and modern amenities.
Hotel Regency: This is a mid-range hotel that offers comfortable rooms and friendly service.
Zoram Villa Guesthouse: This is a budget-friendly guesthouse that offers basic accommodation at an affordable price.

What to Buy in Aizawl: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Aizawl is known for its unique handicrafts, textiles, and other locally produced goods. Here are some of the best souvenirs and local products to bring back from Aizawl:

Puan: A traditional Mizo cloth made of woven fabric, used to make clothing and other products.
Bamboo products: Aizawl is known for its bamboo products, which range from baskets and mats to furniture and home decor items.
Mizo shawls: These colorful shawls are made using traditional Mizo weaving techniques and are a popular souvenir item.

Local Culture and Customs of Aizawl

The Mizo people are known for their rich cultural heritage and unique customs and traditions. Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Aizawl:

Respect local customs: The Mizo people have their unique customs and traditions, and it’s important to respect these when visiting the region.
Dress modestly: The Mizo people are conservative, and it’s recommended to dress modestly when visiting public places and temples.
Try the local cuisine: The Mizo cuisine is unique and flavorful, and it’s worth trying some of the local delicacies when visiting the region.

Best Time to Visit Aizawl

The best time to visit Aizawl is between October and March, when the weather is cool and pleasant. The monsoon season (June to September) can be hot and humid, and the city experiences occasional landslides and roadblocks during this time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Aizawl

Here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind when visiting Aizawl:

Do:

Respect local customs and traditions
Dress modestly when visiting public places and temples
Try the local cuisine and beverages

Don’t:

Take photographs without permission
Disrespect local customs or religious beliefs
Litter or damage the environment

Safety and Health

Aizawl is a relatively safe city, but it’s important to take some precautions when traveling in the region. Here are some safety and health tips for visitors to Aizawl:

Safety in Aizawl

Avoid traveling alone at night: It’s best to avoid traveling alone at night, especially in less populous areas.
Be cautious of pickpockets and thieves: Keep your valuables safe and be cautious of pickpockets and thieves in crowded places.
Check for roadblocks and landslides: During the monsoon season, the region experiences occasional roadblocks and landslides that can disrupt travel plans.

Health in Aizawl

Drink bottled water: Make sure to drink bottled water and avoid tap water, which may not be safe for consumption.
Get vaccinated: It’s recommended to get vaccinated against diseases like typhoid, hepatitis A and B, and tetanus before traveling to the region.

Getting to Aizawl: Transportation Options and Logistics

Aizawl is well-connected to other parts of India and the region, with several transportation options available. Here’s how to get to Aizawl:

Airports Near Aizawl

Lengpui Airport: This is the closest airport to Aizawl, located about 32 km from the city. It’s connected to major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati, as well as neighboring countries like Myanmar and Bhutan.

Bus Stations Near Aizawl

Silchar Bus Station: This is the closest bus station to Aizawl, located about 180 km from the city. It’s connected to major Indian cities like Guwahati, Kolkata, and Shillong.

Other Options

Private taxis: Private taxis are readily available in the region and can be hired for both short and long distances.

How to Get Around in Aizawl

Aizawl is a small and compact city that’s best explored on foot or by bike. Taxis and buses are also available, but they can be expensive and often crowded. Motorbikes and scooters can also be rented from local shops.

Where to Go Next from Aizawl: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Aizawl is located in a region that’s rich in natural and cultural attractions, and there are several nearby destinations and excursions that are worth exploring. Here are some of the top destinations to visit from Aizawl:

Mawlynnong: This picturesque village in the neighboring state of Meghalaya has been dubbed “Asia’s cleanest village” for its pristine natural surroundings and eco-friendly practices.
Cherrapunji: This scenic hill station is known for its lush greenery and abundant rainfall, and is home to several scenic waterfalls and viewpoints.
Mizoram-Myanmar Border: This remote border crossing allows visitors to experience the unique cultural and natural beauty of both Mizoram and Myanmar.

Conclusion

Aizawl is a unique travel destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or outdoor adventures, Aizawl is sure to enchant and delight you. With its charming mix of traditional and modern influences, friendly people, and stunning natural beauty, Aizawl is a must-visit destination for any traveler to India.

Aizawl Image Gallery

A panorama of Aizawl and environs

Terminal Building, Lengpui Airport

Solomon's Temple.

Clouded leopard at Aizawl Zoo