Aizawl

Aizawl, Mizoram’s capital, is a lovely hill city that sits approximately 1132 metres above sea level. The hill city, surrounded on the north by the tall peaks of Durtlang, is built on ridges of steep hills that overlook the sylvan valley of the river Tlawng in the west and the river Tuirial in the east and south. This lovely and serene city also boasts an unusual backdrop with grassy hills extending to the horizon. Aizawl, as the state capital, serves as Mizoram’s political and cultural core. It serves as the state government and public sector headquarters, as well as the state’s commercial hub.

History of Aizawl

In 1890, the British Raj designated Aizawl as the administrative hub for the North Eastern area, and it was officially acknowledged as Mizoram’s capital. However, it wasn’t until 1987 that Mizoram was granted full statehood.

Between 1750 and 1850, the Mizo (previously known as Lushai) tribes arrived from the adjacent Chin Hills, subjugating the indigenous peoples and assimilating them into their own society. The Mizo established an authoritarian governmental system based on approximately 300 hereditary chieftainships.

The tribes of Mizoram were undisturbed by foreign political influence until the British seized Assam in 1826 by the Treaty of Yandabo. Throughout the next decades, Mizo raids into British territory resulted in sporadic punitive expeditions by the British. By the 1870s, the region had fallen under British rule. In 1873, it was subject to the British administration’s Inner Line Regulations, which restricted people from moving from the plains to the highlands. However, the region was not officially acquired until the early 1890s.

The territory was initially administered as the North Lushai Hills (in the province of Assam) and the South Lushai Hills (in the Bengal Presidency). Assam’s Lushai Hills District was formed in 1898. In 1935, the district was declared a “excluded area,” which meant that the province assembly lost jurisdiction over it and the governor of Assam took primary responsibility for its administration.

After India gained independence from the British in 1947, the district remained part of Assam. However, growing Mizo discontent prompted the Mizo National Front to declare independence in 1966. The resulting violent insurrection forced India’s central government to take over Mizoram’s governance and declare it a union territory in 1972. The insurgency lasted until the signing of the Mizoram Peace Accord in 1986. As a result of this agreement, Mizoram gained statehood in 1987.

Culture of Aizawl

Almost 95% of Aizawl residents practice Christianity, hence Christmas is celebrated with great excitement and spectacle. Apart from Christmas, local celebrations are held during and at the end of the harvest season. These are Mit Kut (August/September), Chapchar Kut (March), and Pawl Kut (December). Residents of the city enjoy music and ethnic dances such as Cheraw, Khuallam, and Chheih Kam. Furniture, pottery, and handcrafted bamboo and cane baskets are central to the city’s art and crafts. Even the native cultural dress is vividly coloured and finely woven. Aizawl’s cuisine comprises primarily of non-vegetarian foods such as rice and boiled vegetables cooked in minimal oil and spices and seasoned with a variety of herbs.

Aizawl Tourism

It provides a variety of experiences for those looking for a peaceful vacation. Whether hiking through beautiful forests, exploring old temples, or simply relaxing in the quiet atmosphere, Aizwal tourism promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of northeastern India.

Top 5 Visiting places in Aizwal

Mizoram State Museum: Located in the city centre, this museum showcases Mizoram’s rich legacy.In addition to the countless archeological relics, pictures, and natural history specimens, there is an entire gallery dedicated to the Mizo tribes. The things on display are truly unusual and not usually encountered in other regions of the world. The Mizo’s history, culture, and tradition are abundantly seen in the objects of tools and utensils, domestic supplies, hunting and fighting, ornaments, and textiles.

Solomon’s Temple: The Temple is a non-denominational church formed in 1984 by Dr. L.B. Sailo. They are referred to locally as ‘Kohhran Thianghlim’ and in English as the “Holy Church”. Members are known as ‘the elects’. Dr. LB Sailo, the Holy Church’s founder, had a vision to build Solomon’s Temple in 1991. He was apprised of the Temple’s comprehensive design and structure. According to God’s instructions, construction began in 1996 at Chawlhhmun, with donations from Church members. The valley where the temple is built is known as Kidron Valley, and it is 10 kilometers from the core of Aizawl City. Though the temple is under construction, it is almost finished and is the most visited site.

KV Paradise: The modern Taj Mahal of Aizawl. It is a monument that commemorates a man’s love for his wife, who died in a vehicle accident. Khawlhring’s wife Varte died in an accident in 2001, thus he chose to erect a memorial for her near his home. The memorial is approximately 45 minutes from the main city and a few minutes from Durtlang Hills. It also happens to be on a magnificent slope overlooking Aizawl city. The tomb is called KV Paradise, after their initials.

Khawhpawp: Khawhpawp, a small waterfall in Aizawl, is one of the city’s most treasured natural attractions. Its beauty will fascinate you. Khawhpawp is the perfect place to sneak away with friends and family on weekends.

Ting Dil: Ting Dil is situated in North Tinghmun, Aizawl District. It is an artificial lake created by people. Ting Dil Cooperative Society operates boating and accommodation facilities.

Weather And Climate of Aizawl

The average temperature of Aizawl is roughly 22°C, but it can range from 16°C in the winter (January) to 26°C during the monsoon (July). The hottest month of the year is July, with temperatures ranging from 22.6°C to 34.5°C. The coolest month of the year is January, when temperatures range from 7.5°C to 22.7°C.

Best Time To Visit Aizawl – Visit Mizoram between November and March for good weather and a fantastic experience.

Population Of Aizawl

The current population estimate for Aizawl City in 2024 is 415,000. The present forecasts for Aizawl City are based on previous growth rates. According to preliminary Census India data, Aizawl’s population in 2011 was 293,416.

Aizawl Religion

Christianity is the most prominent religion in Aizawl, with 93.63% of the city’s inhabitants following it. Hinduism is the second most common religion in Aizawl, with 4.14% embracing it. Islam is practised by 1.52% of Aizawl’s population.

How to reach Aizawl

The gateway to Aizawl is Lengpui Airport (AJL), which is located roughly 32 kilometres south of the city centre. The airport only has one terminal, which handles all flights to and from The City.

The City is well-connected to neighbouring states and cities via roads. The City is accessible via National Highway 54 from Silchar, Assam, and National Highway 150 from Imphal, Manipur. Several state-run and private bus services operate along these routes, providing convenient transportation options. The City does not have a railway station. The nearest railway station to The City is Silchar, Assam, which is approximately 184 kilometres distant.

The City’s local transit alternatives make it easy to travel about. The City has shared taxis and a local transportation network that make it easy to go around the city. Auto rickshaws are also available for shorter trips.