LUNGLEI, MIZORAM – EXPERIENCE VIBRANT CULTURE AND SCENIC VISTAS

Lunglei is a city in the Indian state of Mizoram, located in the southern part of the state. It is the second-largest city in Mizoram and is known for its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. Lunglei is surrounded by lush green hills and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The city is home to a vibrant community of people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds, making it a diverse and culturally rich destination.
Lunglei is a must-visit tourist destination for those who love to explore offbeat places and experience the local culture. Here are some reasons why:
- Natural Beauty: Lunglei is blessed with abundant natural beauty, including lush green hills, scenic waterfalls, and pristine lakes. The city is surrounded by dense forests and is a paradise for nature lovers.
- Cultural Diversity: Lunglei is home to people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds, including Mizo, Hmar, Mara, and Chakma. The city is known for its rich cultural heritage, and tourists can experience the local customs and traditions by visiting the local markets and attending cultural events.
- Adventure Activities: Lunglei offers plenty of adventure activities for thrill-seekers, including trekking, rock climbing, and rappelling. The city is also a popular destination for bird watching, with over 100 species of birds found in the area.
- Warm Hospitality: The people of Lunglei are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. Tourists can enjoy traditional Mizo cuisine and stay in homestays to experience the local way of life.
Overall, Lunglei is an ideal destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature and local culture.
Interesting Facts
- Name Origin: The name “Lunglei” is derived from the Mizo words “lung” meaning bridge and “lei” meaning rock. The city is named after a bridge-like rock formation that was used as a lookout point by the early inhabitants.
- Second Largest City: Lunglei is the second-largest city in Mizoram, after the state capital Aizawl. It is located in the southern part of the state and is known for its natural beauty and cultural diversity.
- Famous for Handicrafts: Lunglei is famous for its traditional handicrafts, including bamboo and cane products, handloom textiles, and wood carvings. Tourists can visit the local markets to buy souvenirs and experience the local art and craft.
- Home to Mizoram University: Lunglei is home to Mizoram University, a central university established in 2001. The university offers undergraduate and postgraduate courses in various disciplines, including arts, science, and management.
- Rich in Flora and Fauna: Lunglei is rich in flora and fauna, with many endemic species found in the surrounding forests. The city is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Lunglei Wildlife Sanctuary and the Phawngpui National Park.
Popular Activities Enjoyed by Tourists
Here are some popular activities enjoyed by tourists in Lunglei:
- Trekking: Lunglei offers plenty of opportunities for trekking, with several scenic trails through the surrounding hills and forests. Tourists can explore the lush greenery and enjoy breathtaking views of the landscape.
- Bird Watching: Lunglei is a popular destination for bird watching, with over 100 species of birds found in the area. The city is surrounded by dense forests and offers plenty of opportunities to spot rare and endemic bird species.
- Rock Climbing and Rappelling: Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy rock climbing and rappelling in Lunglei, with several challenging routes available. The city is surrounded by rocky outcrops and offers thrilling experiences for those seeking an adrenaline rush.
- Visit Local Markets: Tourists can visit the local markets in Lunglei to experience the local culture and buy traditional handicrafts. The markets are known for their bamboo and cane products, handloom textiles, and wood carvings.
- Cultural Events: Lunglei hosts several cultural events throughout the year, including the Chapchar Kut festival in March, which marks the start of the farming season. Tourists can experience the local customs and traditions by attending these events.
- Visit Wildlife Sanctuaries and National Parks: Lunglei is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Lunglei Wildlife Sanctuary and the Phawngpui National Park. Tourists can explore the rich flora and fauna of the region and spot rare and endangered species.
Top Attractions and Must Visit Places
Here are some top attractions and must-visit places in and around Lunglei:
- Lunglei Cultural and Heritage Centre: This center showcases the traditional lifestyle and culture of the local communities, including their customs, rituals, and crafts.
- Khawnglung Wildlife Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located just 15 km from Lunglei and is home to a variety of animals, including the Hoolock gibbon, macaques, and barking deer.
- Phawngpui National Park: This national park is located around 300 km from Lunglei and is known for its scenic beauty and diverse flora and fauna.
- Zobawk Village: This picturesque village is located around 17 km from Lunglei and is known for its traditional bamboo and cane handicrafts.
- Lunglei Presbyterian Church: This church is one of the oldest and most prominent landmarks in Lunglei, with a unique blend of Mizo and British architecture.
- Saikuti Hall: This hall is located in the heart of Lunglei and is known for its intricate wood carvings and traditional Mizo design.
- Nghasih Stream: This stream is located around 10 km from Lunglei and is known for its natural beauty and tranquil surroundings.
- Khawnglung Run: This annual festival is celebrated in August and features traditional dance and music performances, as well as a range of local food and crafts.
- Chhingpui Thlan: This annual festival is celebrated in November and is known for its traditional bullfighting competition, as well as cultural performances and local cuisine.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lunglei would be during the winter months between November and February, as the weather is pleasant and dry, with temperatures ranging from 10-20°C. This is also the time when two popular festivals, Chhingpui Thlan and Chapchar Kut, are celebrated in Lunglei and the surrounding areas.
Chhingpui Thlan is celebrated in November and is a traditional bullfighting competition, as well as cultural performances and local cuisine. Chapchar Kut is celebrated in March and marks the start of the spring season, with traditional dances and music performances, as well as local food and crafts.
However, visitors can also consider visiting during the monsoon season between June and September to experience the lush greenery and scenic waterfalls that are abundant in the area. During this time, the weather can be unpredictable and heavy rainfall is common, so visitors should come prepared with appropriate gear and clothing.
How to Reach
Lunglei is located in the southern part of Mizoram, India. Here are some ways to reach Lunglei:
- By Air: The nearest airport to Lunglei is the Lengpui Airport in Aizawl, which is around 180 km away. From the airport, visitors can hire a taxi or take a bus to Lunglei.
- By Train: The nearest railway station is in Silchar, Assam, which is around 220 km away. From Silchar, visitors can take a bus or hire a taxi to reach Lunglei.
- By Bus: Lunglei is well-connected by road to other cities in Mizoram, as well as nearby states like Assam and Tripura. Visitors can take a bus from Aizawl, Silchar, or other nearby cities to reach Lunglei.
By Car: Visitors can also choose to drive to Lunglei, as the roads are well-maintained and offer scenic views of the surrounding hills and forests.