Lunglei Town- The second largest settlement in Mizoram

Mizoram, a state located in the northeastern part of India is famous for its beautiful green scenery, its interesting culture, and its lively communities. Among its many hidden gems, Lunglei Town stands out as a place of breathtaking natural beauty and cultural diversity. It is the second largest settlement in Mizoram and is located at around 170 km south of Aizawl.

The name Lunglei is derived from a bridge shaped rock which is found along the Nghasih river, a tributary of river Tlawng. Lunglei is surrounded by verdant forests and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding hills. It’s a place where nature’s beauty is at its best, with clean air and a refreshing climate. The town is also home to various indigenous Mizo communities which make it a vibrant hub of cultural diversity.

When to visit

Lunglei can be visited throughout the year. But the best time is probably between October and March as one can get to experience the pleasant weather of Lunglei during this time. Monsoon is also a good time to visit this place but heavy rainfall sometimes leads to landslides making the travel difficult.

How to visit

By air- The closest airport to Lunglei is the Lengpui Airport, and it’s about 160 kilometers away. After landing at Lengpui Airport, one can continue the journey to Lunglei town by road. It usually takes about 4-5 hours to reach Lunglei, but the exact time can vary depending on the condition of the roads. One can easily find taxis waiting outside Lengpui Airport which will take them to Lunglei.

By train- There are no railheads in Mizoram and thus the Silchar railway station is considered the nearest railway station to Lunglei which is around 340 kms away. Bus and taxi services are available from Silchar to Lunglei.

By road- Lunglei is well connected by road to Aizawl and other towns of the state. The most ideal mode to travel by road is from Aizawl through bus or jeep taxies.

Things to do

Visit Tlawng River: One can visit the Tlawng River and enjoy the serene natural beauty and can also have a picnic by the riverside.

Trekking: Trekking in Lunglei provides fantastic chances for exploration. One can walk through the nearby hills and forests. The landscape is wild and untouched, making it an ideal spot for adventure lovers.

Handicraft Shopping: One can explore the local markets to buy traditional Mizo handicrafts, including bamboo and cane products, handwoven textiles and traditional jewelry.

Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary: One can visit this sanctuary to see various species of wildlife and enjoy the natural surroundings. It’s an excellent place for birdwatching and experiencing the region’s biodiversity.

Zobawk Sports Academy: Sports interested person can pay a visit to the Zobawk Sports Academy. One might even catch a local football match if it’s in season.

Thuruk Waterfall: This stunning waterfall is about 14 km from Lunglei and is a great place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Lunglei Park: One can spend some time in Lunglei Park, a well-maintained green space in the heart of the town. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk or a family picnic.

Explore Local Villages: One can take a day trip to nearby Mizo villages to experience the rural way of life and interact with the friendly locals.

Foods to try

One can taste dishes like bamboo shoot curry, bamboo rice, and bamboo steamed fish, which use bamboo shoots for a special flavor. Mizo Thali also offers a mix of meat curries, greens, and chutneys on one plate. Vawksa Rep, a spicy pork curry, and Mizo snacks like pakoras are the famous dish here. One should definitely try the bamboo smoked pork for a smoky twist and “zu,” their homemade rice wine. One can also try the bamboo stick tea called Chhangban.

Conclusion

Lunglei town, with its captivating natural beauty, cultural diversity, and warm-hearted people, offers a truly immersive experience for travelers seeking an offbeat destination in India. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast looking to trek through lush forests or a person who like to learn about the different cultures, Lunglei has something for everyone. This hidden gem of Mizoram provides an unforgettable journey into the heart of India’s northeastern wonders.