The first railhead in the north-eastern state Mizoram brings its diverse destinations, that offer a perfect blend of natural beauty
With the opening of Bairabi–Sairang railway line in Mizoram by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on September 13 opens up an entire vista of tourism destinations for visitors not just from around the country, but also overseas.
Mizoram, one of the Seven Sister states in North East India, has so far been accessible only by air or road and the opening of the railway link will not only make it more affordable for visitors but also expedite travel to the state that shares borders with Tripura, Assam and Manipur, as well as with Bangladesh and Myanmar.
Post-independence of the country, Mizoram was part of Assam until 1972, when it became a Union Territory. Before receiving full statehood in 1987, the region faced insurgency, however, with statehood, peace was restored as people’s demands for autonomy were met, bringing stability and development to the region.
Amongst the destinations for tourists in the state is the capital, Aizawl, a scenic city perched on steep hills at an altitude of about 1,132 m. Meaning ‘the home of the highlanders’, Aizawl is the largest city and the cultural and spiritual heart of Mizoram. The city lies on sharp ridges overlooking the valleys of the Tlawng and Tuirial rivers.
Aizawl is the cultural and administrative heart of Mizoram, with attractions like Durtlang Hills, that rise in the west, offering panoramic views, Solomon’s Temple, which is the largest church in the state, and the Mizoram State Museum.
Outside of the capital, nature lovers are drawn to Vantawng Falls, the highest in the state, cascading down 229 m through lush greenery, about 100 km south of Aizawl.
Another famous tourist spot is Phawngpui Blue Mountain National Park, about 260 km south of the capital which is famed for trekking and biodiversity. Sitting at an altitude of about 1500 m about 30 km west of Aizawl, the Reiek Heritage Village offers scenic views of the hills and valleys around it. It is also an ideal spot for visitors to gain insights into traditional Mizo life with its handcrafted huts and cultural programmes.
Other major attractions include Tamdil Lake, about 80 east of the capital, which is an ideal spot for those looking for tranquility, while wildlife enthusiasts can explore the Dampa Tiger Reserve, located about 115 km south-west of Aizawl, close to the border with Bangladesh, and which is one of the rare spots in the region with tigers.
Scenic journey through hills and valleys
The new Bairabi–Sairang railway line, spanning 51.38 km through challenging terrain, connects Mizoram’s hills directly with India’s rail network. The route includes 45 tunnels and 55 bridges, offering passengers spectacular views of mist-covered hills, winding rivers, and bamboo forests. Sairang, near the capital Aizawl, now serves as a convenient gateway for travellers and locals alike.
Flavours of Mizoram
Mizo cuisine reflects the simplicity and richness of local produce. Amongst its famous delicacies are smoked pork with bamboo shoots, and sawhchiar which is rice cooked with meat and vegetables and which use fresh, organic ingredients. While it is dominated by meat, there are enough options for vegetarians as well, with dishes like bamboo shoot fry, bai a vegetable stew cooked with various leafy greens, beans, and sometimes fermented soybean paste, koat pitha, a special steamed dish made from rice flour. Panch phoran tarka a spiced vegetable dish made with brinjal, pumpkin, etc.
Visitors can sample these hearty dishes at local markets and eateries in Aizawl and other towns, enjoying authentic flavours passed down through generations.
Accommodation
Accommodation prices in Aizawl range from around INR 744 to INR 4,277 per night. Budget options typically start from about INR 744 to INR 1,500 per night, mid-range stays range from approximately INR 1,100 to INR 2,000, and higher-end hotels usually cost between INR 2,000 and INR 4,277 per night. Seasonal fluctuations affect prices, with the cheapest rates often in March and the most expensive in December.