Aizawl

State Capital of: Mizoram

Main language: Mizo and English

 

Introduction:

 

Aizawl is the capital of Manipur. The city is the perfect blend of diversities amongst unity. It has the beautiful river valley of Tlawng on its west and the Tuirial river valley on the east. Apart from the scenic beauty and the lovely climate, friendly people of Aizawl attract tourists from through out the world. 

 

Geography and Demography:

 

The state capital of Mizoram is located just north of the tropic of cancer. It lies on the northern part of the state. The city is situated on a ridge which is above 1132 meters above the sea level. The city lies amidst beautiful high ridges and is surrounded by deep valleys and protected by high craggy on the north. The population of the state is just 260,000. The temperature through out the year is quite cool with the summers ranging from 20 to 30 degree centigrade. The temperatures in the winters are from 11 to 21 degree centigrade. The average annual rainfall is about 3000m. The literacy level in the city is almost 87% which is surpassed only by Kerela. 

 

Tourism:

 

The city is the ideal get away for those who want the scenic beauty of the mountains but want their share of solitude also. There is lots of fresh air and plenty of places to see. Amongst the main tourist attractions are the Museum at Macdonald's Hill. The state museum has some of the rich historical ancient costumes and relics. The zoological gardens and the Durtlang Hills also attract tourists. The best time to visit the city is during October to March. Even though the city is the largest in Mizoram it is still very remote and less populated compared to most hill stations which is one of the major reasons for domestic and foreign tourists brimming in the area. The major tourist attractions are Bung, Paikhai and Tamdil. Dampa is a wildlife sanctuary which is also the tri junction of Tripura, Bangladesh and Mizoram. For those who love fishing Kolasib is a must visit. Vantawng, the highest waterfall in Mizoram is also located near Aizawl.

 

Culture:

 

Mizoram is the home for mixed cultural groups and races. There are various communities which live in Mizoram and maintain coexistence in harmony. Though Mizo is the spoken language most of the residents are also fluent in English. The traditional dress of Mizoram is very colorful and women are seen wearing colorful puanchei, which is the traditional attire of Mizo women during festivals. There are various tribes living here and most of the festivals are related with cultural activities. There are community dances which are passed down to generations. 

 

 

Economy:

 

Being the state capital most of the government offices, state assembly house and also the civil secretariat are located here. Apart from these government jobs there are also various forest products and other handicraft trades which contribute to the economy. Apart from this there is also a large market for garments and accessories along with other commercial goods.

 

Transportation:

Aizawl is accessible by road through Silchar, Guwahati and Shillong. There are state operated buses also available. The nearest rail-head is also located in Silchar. There are air services available from Calcutta to Aizawl.