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.
Mizoram
