Ṭamdil Lake

Literally meaning 'Lake of Mustard,' Ṭamdil is located near Saitual village, approximately 110 km from Aizawl. It has been developed as a prominent pisciculture center by the Department of Fisheries and as a holiday destination by the Department of Tourism. Today, it is among the most visited lakes in the state. The lake, surrounded by dense forest, hosts a rich diversity of flora and fauna. According to local folklore, the valley where Ṭamdil now lies was once cultivated through traditional jhum farming by a couple. After the husband's sudden death, the widow continued farming alone. Among the mustard plants, one grew noticeably larger than the rest. One night, the widow reportedly dreamt of her late husband, who instructed her to care for the unusually large mustard plant, promising it would bring her great fortune. Following his advice, she nurtured the plant diligently, and it flourished. However, after remarrying, her new husband resented any reminders of her former spouse. In an act of spite, he uprooted the plant and discarded it. Water immediately gushed from the hole left behind, gradually filling the valley and forming what is now known as Ṭamdil Lake.

Ṭawi Wildlife Sanctuary

Located approximately 101 km from Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram, Ṭawi Wildlife Sanctuary spans an area of around 35.75 square kilometers. The sanctuary lies at elevations ranging from 400 to 1,300 meters above sea level. Notified in 1978, it is one of the earliest designated wildlife sanctuaries in Mizoram. It features tropical evergreen and semi-evergreen forests, providing habitat to several rare and endangered species of both flora and fauna.
Flora:
The sanctuary's vegetation includes a rich variety of plant species such as canes and bamboos, Michelia champaca, Duabanga grandiflora, Schima wallichii, Terminalia species, and Gmelina arborea, among others.
Fauna:
The sanctuary supports diverse wildlife including tiger, leopard, sambar, barking deer, jungle cat, serow, hoolock gibbon, rhesus macaque, kalij pheasant, jungle fowl, common partridge, hill myna, and dark-rumped swift.
Accommodation:
Basic accommodation is available in the form of an inspection hut at the Hualtu Range Headquarters, consisting of two rooms with a total of four beds.

Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary

Located in Saitual District in eastern Mizoram, Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area of ecological significance, particularly known for its alpine forests and avian biodiversity. It encompasses the second-highest peak in Mizoram and holds special conservation importance due to its population of rare bird species. The sanctuary was declared a protected area in 1999 and was officially designated as a national wildlife sanctuary by the Ministry of Environment and Forests, Government of India, on 31 May 2001. Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary is home to a wide range of fauna, with a notable focus on bird species. Among the prominent avian residents are the dark-rumped swift, grey sibia, Mrs. Hume's pheasant, grey peacock-pheasant, Oriental pied hornbill, rufous-bellied eagle, and white-naped yuhina. A 2011 wildlife survey also reported the presence of Blyth’s tragopan, a rare and threatened bird species. The sanctuary also supports a rich diversity of mammals, including tiger, leopard, sambar deer, barking deer, goral, serow, hoolock gibbon, rhesus macaque, and wild boar. Importantly, it is one of the few locations in the region where the northern pig-tailed macaque—a primate species classified as vulnerable by the IUCN—has been recorded.

Rungdil Lake

Rungdil Lake is a picturesque twin-lake located approximately 14 kilometers from Suangpuilawn village in Saitual District, Mizoram. Covering an area of 2.5 hectares, the lake is renowned for its serene natural beauty and tranquil surroundings, making it a favored destination for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike. Historically, the area was home to a large population of partridges, which contributed to its reputation as a haven for birdlife. While their numbers may have declined, Rungdil remains an important site for avifauna observation. The lake comprises two nearly identical water bodies, separated by a narrow strip of land. Local belief holds that despite their surface separation, the twin lakes are connected by an underground water passage.

Ṭawi Puk (Cave)

Mizoram is home to a number of stunning yet lesser-known destinations that await discovery—and Ṭawi Puk is one such hidden gem. Located in Hmunṭha, Ṭawi Puk is a fascinating natural cave that offers an ideal setting for those seeking offbeat travel experiences. As the new year approaches and travel plans take shape, Ṭawi Puk presents a unique opportunity to explore Mizoram’s natural wonders beyond the typical tourist trail. Its serene environment and intriguing geological features make it a compelling addition to any nature enthusiast’s itinerary.

Teikhang Kurung

Teikhang Kurung, located near Teikhang Village in Saitual District, is a remarkable natural attraction approximately an eight-hour drive from Aizawl. This awe-inspiring geological formation features towering rocky walls that plunge dramatically to its expansive floor, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. The site captivates visitors with its raw beauty and striking rock formations, offering a profound sense of connection with nature. A visit to Teikhang Kurung is not just a visual experience, but an invitation to immerse oneself in the natural world and reflect on the grandeur of Earth's landscapes.

Lung Milem Suangpuilawn

Located in Suangpuilawn village in Aizawl District, Lung Milem is a mysterious stone slab featuring inscriptions that remain undeciphered to this day. Measuring approximately 1 meter in both length and width, the stone lies beside a stream, quietly evoking curiosity and historical intrigue. This enigmatic artifact stands as a silent testament to an unknown past, offering visitors a unique cultural and archaeological point of interest amidst the natural beauty of the region.

Hriangmual–Mawmrang (Phuaibung)

Located in the eastern corner of Mizoram in Saitual District, Hriangmual—also known as Mawmrang—is a majestic peak situated approximately 180 km from Aizawl, the state capital. The name is derived from the evergreen Hriang tree that flourishes in the area, with mual meaning 'ground,' giving it the name 'Hriangmual.' The peak lies on the outskirts of Phuaibung Village and remains one of Mizoram’s least-explored natural treasures. Blanketed in dense evergreen forests, Hriangmual is rich in biodiversity. It is home to a variety of wildlife including stag, deer, wild boar, monkeys, and numerous bird species. The Talan River meanders through this forested landscape, further enhancing its ecological richness. One of the site’s most fascinating features is Fangfar Puk, a cave measuring approximately 15 to 20 feet in width. Inside, stalagmites continuously drip water, which is collected by locals for its reputed medicinal properties. These waters are traditionally believed to possess healing qualities and are used to treat various ailments. Hriangmual also holds significant historical and cultural value. It is believed that the Thado (Ngendal) tribe once inhabited this forest in the late 1800s. Thousands of monolithic remains, including six preserved stone tables, can still be found within the forest. Adjacent to the tables are larger monoliths surrounded by numerous smaller stones, offering a glimpse into the early settlement practices of the region. The INTACH Mizoram Chapter is currently conducting extensive research on these monoliths to shed light on Mizoram's historical heritage. Phuaibung Village has taken a proactive role in the protection and conservation of Hriangmual, recognizing its ecological, cultural, and historical significance. The best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is most favorable. Indeed, Mizoram remains a largely untouched and unexplored paradise—waiting to reveal its secrets to the discerning traveler.