Travel Bucket List: India – Mizoram Part 3

Posted on December 28, 2022 by memoriesandsuch

Dampa Tiger Reserve
Located amidst deep and dense forests, the Dampa Tiger Reserve is located about 120 km southwest of Aizwal and is rich with a variety of flora and fauna. The wildlife sanctuary covers a sprawling area of over 500 sq km in the Lushai Hills at an altitude of between 800 to 1,100 m on the western side of Mizoram and touches the international boundaries with Bangladesh. It was declared a tiger reserve in 1994 and is part of Project Tiger. The name Dampa means lonely men and refers to a local narrative about a village, where a lot of the women died.

The protected area was initially established as a wildlife sanctuary in 1985 with an area of about 680 sq km, which was reduced to about 340 sq km. In 1994, it received the status of a Tiger Reserve with an area of 500 sq km and thus became part of Project Tiger. The jurisdiction of the reserve is under two ranges, namely the Teirei Range and the Phuldungsei Range. The hills around the wildlife sanctuary are known to be the bio-geographic highway that connects India to certain regions of Mayanmar and China.

The tropical forests of the Dampa Tiger Reserve are home to diverse flora and fauna consisting of forests interpolated with steep precipitous hills, deep valleys, jungle streams, ripping rivulets, and natural salt licks. The reserve is not easily accessible unlike other parks where one can ride on a four-wheeler but one has to walk through the forest if one wishes to sight animals.

Dampa is home to the sloth bear, the serow, the hoolock gibbon, the slow loris, the endangered Phayre’s leaf monkey, the India leopard and the clouded leopard to name a few. The Bengal tiger was said to be extinct here until very recently when in May 2021 a camera trap finally captured a definite picture of a Bengal tiger. The last such recording was seven years ago, and before that, tiger scat was the only proof of their existence.

The Blue Pitta which belongs to the Pittidae family and is one of the 30 species on Earth is one of the main attractions here. Studies suggest that only 6 out of these 30 species of Pitta are found in India. There are about 54 species of birds that reside in the protected area out of which only 25 species have been identified by biologists researching the fauna of the reserve. Out of these 25, two species are in the nearly threatened category, and one is on the verge of extinction.

Dampa wildlife sanctuary is famous for its Jungle Safari. A part of the Safari includes taking detours in the deep, dense forests of the reserve. During the safari, one can spot leopards and tigers. A large variety of deer and bears are a common sight around the national park. Apart from this, Dampa also houses an exquisite variety of birds. One can book safari tours in advance and also opt to stay at one of the guesthouses available nearby at Dampa Hills.

Dampa Tiger Reserveis the largest wildlife sanctuary in Mizoram, was notified in 1985 and declared a tiger reserve in 1994. It is situated in the western part of Mizoram state, on the international border with Bangladesh about 127 km from Aizawl. It covers an area of approximately 550 sq km. The tropical Forests of Dampa are home to rich flora and fauna. It consists of forest interpolated with steep precipitous hills, deep valleys, jungle streams, ripping rivulets, natural salts licks, with an altitudinal zone of 200 m to 800 m. Dampa Tiger Reserve is a part of Project Tiger funded by the Government of India

Lunglei
Situated in the south-central part of Mizoram, which means the bridge of rock got its name from a bridge-like rock found in the riverine area around Nghasih – a small tributary of the River Tlawng, the longest river in Mizoram. It is the largest town after the capital, Aizawl, and is located about 165 km south of Aizawl.

Lunglei was the capital of the South Lushai Hill Districts for 10 years from 1888, as was Aizawl for the North Hill Districts. The two were united in 1898. Until India’s partition, Lunglei had direct access to Chittagong, a big city in what is today Bangladesh which made Lunglei the commercial and educational centre. The first Jeepable road to Lunglei was made only in the 1950s.

Lunglei is famous for its scenic beauty and natural setting and is an ideal offbeat destination for those who love natural beauty and adventure activities bundled into one. Trekking, bird watching and camping are among the popular activities opted for by tourists visiting Lunglei. Lunglei is a biodiverse region, home to the Thorangtlang Wildlife Sanctuary and the Saza Wildlife Sanctuary. While the Saza Wildlife Sanctuary is famous for hosting migratory and endemic bird species, the Thorangtlang Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several animal species such as leopards, tigers, porcupines and leaf monkeys among others. Visiting the Lunglei Rock Bridge at the Nghasih stream is another popular activity while here.

On a rocky portion on the southern edge of Tawikhawthlir hill near Mualcheng village, about 65 km south of Lunglei, there are three figurines of persons in meditational poses which the local people call Lung Milem or the Stone Figures. It is not known who created them and it remains a mystery to date as no other relics of Buddhism are found elsewhere in the state.

Ui Lung is a monolith famous for its remarkably intricate carvings. It was erected in the whereabouts of 1800 by a certain Chinzah chieftain and his citizens in an expression of their longing for their fellow clansmen who perished in a severe famine. Their former village called Dawn is now in the Myanmar Republic. The stone features intricate carvings of animal heads, gongs, and human figures with spears and other weapons. It is a landmark in the historical wealth of the state. One may also visit Chhura leh Naa Vawk, a monolith with carvings portraying Mizo historical stories close to Ui Lung.

The District Museum at Lunglei is well-known as a storehouse of the ethnic culture and traditions of the state. There are exhibits of armour, jewellery, utensils, paintings, and other native art.

Lying about 84 km northeast of Lunglei, Khawnglung is a mountain situated near Pangzawl and a village of the same name used to be located on the ridge and was the scene of one of the bloodiest massacres during the days of internecine feuds between the Sailo chiefs in the middle of the nineteenth century. Intertwined with this event is the tragic love story of Chalkunga and Thanghniangi, a beautiful maiden who happened to be one of the many female captives taken by the raiders. Chalkunga later rescued her in a daring lone foray, only to lose her on the way home in the flooding Tiau river which swept her away from his grasp while they were attempting to cross it. With sheer cliffs on all sides, the mountain has always been a natural shelter for man and animals for ages. Declared a wildlife sanctuary in 2000, Khawnglung covers an area of 35 sq km and is rich in flora and fauna, particularly primates and birds. It however requires trekking for about 10 km to reach the sanctuary. The best time to visit is between October and March.

Champhai
A bustling commercial town at the Indo – Myanmar border, Champhai is a beautiful place and a storehouse of ancient relics, monuments, legends and folklore. Located about 186 km east of Aizwal, Champhai is also considered the fast-emerging fruit bowl of Mizoram. Well-tended vineyards, passion fruit and the recently introduced kiwi fruit plantations in the surrounding hill slopes provide a kaleidoscope of colours. Champhai is believed to be the entry point and the settlement of the first Mizo migrants to India. At the base of the town, towards the Myanmar border is the Champhai Valley. Surrounded by undulating hills, is a wide expanse of rice fields, popularly known as the rice bowl of Mizoram. Because of Champhai’s strategically important location, it is the main business corridor for India and Myanmar in the area.

Champhai was the headquarters of Lalbura Sailo, the son of Vanhnuailiana, a Mizo Chief against whom the British Expedition of 1871–72 was directed. It was accorded the status of a fort during British colonial rule. The Champhai Valley was once a lake and was gradually silted to obliterate the lake. The soil of the plain was still uncultivated during the Lushai Expedition of 1872. Irrigated rice cultivation started in Champhai in 1898 encouraged by the British colonial authorities to supply rice to their soldiers and labourers.

Champhai has several tourist attractions mostly including natural settings, including Kungawrhi Puk, a cave, the river Tiau Lui and the Rih Dil lake. Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in some trekking at the Thasiama Seno Neihna which is about 83 km south of Champhai.

Hla Kungpui Mual is a monument to commemorate Mizo poets, writers, and composers. It was set up in 1986 at the southern edge of the Khawbung Village in the Champhai district. Here, the monuments of Mizo laureate poets and writers are erected at intervals of 10 years. There is a Mizo Poets Square Archive and Library within the compound where the belongings of the poets are preserved. Currently, a total of 36 monuments call the Poet’s Square home.

Once upon a time, on the legendary Lianchhiari Lunglen Tlang cliff, the love-smitten Lianchhiari used to look out for her lover, Chawngfiang, who had migrated to a distant village. With its idyllic view, this perilously protruding cliff has it has found a natural home in a plethora of romantic lore. It lies South of Champhai on the way to Khawbung.

Located to the northeast of Champhai, Mt. Lengteng and its surroundings have been declared a wildlife sanctuary. The second-highest mountain in the region is filled with broad leaf and tropical evergreen forests, and sheer rocky cliffs. It is home to the endangered state bird, Vavu or Mrs Hume’s Pheasant and hornbills and endangered mammals like the slow loris, the leopard, the leopard cat, the serow, the goral and the Asiatic black bear. The sanctuary boasts orchids of various hues and beautiful flowering trees like rhododendrons and cherries. The Lengteng Wildlife Sanctuary is very close to the Murlen National Park which is spread over an area of 100 sq km with sub-tropical evergreen forests.

The Rih Lake is the largest in Mizoram and is often contested to be situated in Myanmar. It is a beautiful heart-shaped lake, believed to be the passage of souls to their eternal abode and is 14 miles from Champhai in Mizoram and 63 miles from Falam, Myanmar. Because it lies in a sensitive area, it cannot be visited without prior permission from the Deputy Commissioner’s Office.

Travel Bucket List: India – Mizoram Part 2

Posted on December 23, 2022 by memoriesandsuch

Reiek
A mountain and tourist spot, Reiek is located about 29 km southwest of Aizawl at an elevation of 1,465 m. Overlooking Aizawl and offering a view of the surrounding valleys and hills, on a clear day, the plains of Bangladesh can be seen from the top of the hill. Reiek Hill is surrounded by thick lush green temperate trees and bushes. The best time to visit Reiek is in April. Apart from sightseeing, the hill is also a haven for birdwatchers. While climbing up the hill one will come across nests and chirping of the native birds including the Peregrine Falcon which is known to make nests at the rocky edges.

Reik also has a Heritage Village which is a typical Mizo village consisting of the distinctive traditional huts of the different Mizo sub-tribes, a Mizo chieftain’s house, a bachelor’s dormitory and of widows has been created and maintained by the Tourism Department. There is also a cafeteria and a resort providing decent food and accommodation.

Reiek is also the venue for the annual Anthurium festival which takes place each year in September. The Anthurium Festival is a festival promoting the Anthurium grown in Mizoram and the rich Mizo customs and traditions at Reiek Tlang. The festival is organised by the Tourism and the Horticulture Department and has the dual purpose of promoting the cultivation and marketing of the enthralling flower and attracting more tourists to the state and showcasing the rich and rhythmic cultural dances and games of Mizoram as well as fashion shows which are also a regular feature of the festival.

Hmuifang
One of Mizoram’s beautiful destinations, Hmuifang or Hmuifang Tlang is a hill station with a lot to offer. Located 50 km from Aizawl at an elevation of 1619 m, Hmuifang is a hill town at the heart of the state and is known for its adventure and wildlife-related activities. A land of virginal green forests and slopes, Hmuifang is also famous for the Thalfavang Kut, a festival that gives one a peek into the Mizo culture by showcasing various dances such as the Cheraw, the Sawlakai, the Siktuithiang lam and the Chheihlam

The Hmuifang Tourist Resort built on the former land of the erstwhile Mizo chief is located at the scenic peak of the mountain and is maintained by the State Government. The resort has comfortable accommodations offering 6 double rooms and a cafeteria. The patches of grasslands on the peak are also ideal for picnics and outdoor camping. The resort is also the venue of the annual Anthurium Festival and Thalfavang Kut. From here, one can visit the Mizo villages situated on the hillsides, namely Hmuifang village, Sumsuih village, Lamchhip village and Chamring village, to see typical Mizo rural life. The mountain also has beautiful cliffs and offers great views of the surrounding hills with the forests abounding with varieties of flora including rare orchids and wildlife, especially avifauna.

Winters are the best time to visit Hmuifang because of the misty hills and the chilly air but it can be visited any time of the year with temperate temperatures.

Kolasib
A quaint town away from the commercialised cities, Kolasib is one of the newer districts in Mizoram and lies in the northern part about 78 km north of Aizwal. In the absence of any written or any other form of authentic records, as is the case of many places in Mizoram, nothing is authentically known about the ancient or medieval ages of the history of the place. Written or authentic records were kept only after the state came under the occupation of British colonial rule in the 2nd half of the nineteenth century. It is said that a chief named Kawla was ruling the village now known as Kolasib and so the village was referred to as the Kawla Chief Village which then became Kolasib during British rule and the name stuck.

Kolasib which is part of the Aizwal Mountainous Region of the Eastern Hill Zones has an average literacy rate of 93.50%, higher than the national average of 74.04%. November to March is the best time to visit Kolasib and the climate is quite temperate and not extreme.

The River Tlawng is Kolasib’s best attraction with its beautiful river banks and adjoining forests serving as a countryside getaway. Close to Tamdil Lake, the river is considered to be Mizoram’s longest river and is spread across 185 km and is also known as Katakha or Dhaleswari in the local dialect. There is leisure boating available which can be done by requesting locals who would be willing to ferry around tourists.

Tamdil or Tam Lake
The largest lake in the state of Mizoram, Tamdil or Tam Lake is a man-made lake developed as an important pisciculture centre and a holiday resort by the state government. The name Tamdil which translates to Lake of Mustard is located about 6 km from Saitual village and 87 km east of Aizwal and is a local favourite. The lake is tucked between evergreen thick forests and are home to wide species of trees, plants and animals as well as has a magnificent landscape, clear, blue waters and a serene environment. A new species of frog called Leptolalax tamdil was described from this lake in 2010.

The origin and etymology of Ṭam Dil are shrouded in myth. Folklore has it that a married couple had a jhum plot in this small valley surrounded by small steep hills. The man, unfortunately, died leaving the wife to care for the crops alone. In the middle of the field was a robust mustard plant, conspicuously bigger than any other plant. One night the widow has a visitation by her husband, who informed her to take special care of the giant mustard plant as it was a harbinger of immense blessing. She did as she was told, and the plant thrived very well and grew bigger and bigger. After some time, the widow remarried but her new husband did not like her to keep anything that would remind her of her former husband and so he pulled the plant up by its roots and threw it away. Out of the hole left in the ground, water flowed out immediately and filled the valley to become a large and beautiful lake. Hence the name of Ṭam Dil, for the Lake of the Mustard.

The place is a local favourite for relaxation and allows one to be away from the crowd, in the lap of nature. One can also boat in the lake, walk around its shores or just spread a carpet, lie down and read a book.

Mamit
Emerging from the regrouping of villages, Mamit lies about 88 km northwest of Aizwal at an average elevation of 718 m. The Mamit District was etched out from the erstwhile Aizawl District in 1998. The dominant tribe within the district is Mizo followed by Chakma and Reang. Mamit is famous for the production of oranges and is known as the Orange Garden of Mizoram. The fourth largest district in Mizoram, Mamit is known for its exquisite scenic locales. The Dampa Tiger Reserve is a popular tourist attraction as is the longest cave network of Mizoram in Pukzing.

Saitlaw is a small town situated around 11 km away to the west of Mamit, in the northeastern part of the state and is surrounded by the Rengdil village to the west and the Bualpui village to the north. West Phaileng is a village situated a few km away from Mamit at an altitude of around 1,290 feet above sea level. The Dampa Sanctuary is in very close proximity to this town which is flanked by dense forest and teak plantations. Kanghmun is a village in the southeastern part of Mamit district at a height of 2,841 feet above sea level. It is known for its cultural values and traditions of the Mamit district. Home to the biggest cave in the state, the 25 m wide Pukzing Cave is in the village of Pukzing at a distance of 12 km north of one of the most famous villages in Mamit, Phuldungsei. Lungkulh is famous for its artificial lake that boasts activities like fishing and boating. It is a brick structure that resembles a mound or a knoll and makes for a beautiful picturesque location.

Vantawng Falls
The highest waterfall in the state and the 13th highest in the country, Vantawng Waterfalls is one of the most mesmerizing waterfalls in Northeast India. One of Mizoram’s best attractions, Vantawng Falls is located about 100 km south of Aizwal and about 39 km north of Serchhip. Tucked between the verdant valleys with thick greenery around, the fall seems like a river of white milk from a distance.

Vantawng Khawhthla or Vantawng Falls is the highest and most spectacular of the waterfalls and cascades in the fast-flowing Vanva River near Thenzawl and is named after Vantawnga, who was said to be an excellent swimmer. So good a swimmer was Vantawnga that he could hover in the cascading water like a fish, but unfortunately, during one of such performances, a drifting log fell from above and killed him. The height of the fall is recorded as 324 feet and it is difficult to get close to it because of the sheer forested hillsides surrounding it, hence a viewing tower has been constructed. September to January are the best months to visit the Vantawng Falls because the weather is cold and the falls are visible flowing at their full might through the verdant Mizo Hills. The winters are cold in the Mizo mountains, so protection is required.

Serchhip
Headquarters of the Serchhip district and about 107 km south of Aizwal, Serchhip lies in the central part of Mizoram. The district has the highest literacy in India. The origin of Serchhip’s name comes from the citrus trees found on top of the first hill of the then-Serchhip village. The word meaning of Ser-chhip is ‘citrus-on-top’. In addition to the former Serchhip village, the Town Area now included New Serchhip and Chhiahtlang villages.

Serchhip is at an average elevation of 888 m and lies between the two very important rivers of Mat and Tuikum. River Tuikum is a public drinking water for Serchhip and River Mat is an irrigation water for Zawlpui, the rice bowl of Serchhip.

The first settlement within the Serchhip area can be traced back to Lallula, a Mizo chief, who set up a settlement at Kawlri. Lallula massacred Thlânrâwn Pawi at Zopui. After this incident, afraid of revenge from Thlânrâwn, he fled towards Artahkawn to Lunglei Zobawk. And from there, he migrated towards the north and reached Serchhip Kawlri. The second settlement at Serchhip was founded by Bengkhuaia, son of Lalpuithanga, Chief of Bâwngchâwm, a great Mizo chief. From Kawlri he made a raid on Assam valley in 1871 and captured Mary Winchester, the daughter of James Winchester, which led to the First Lushai Expedition in 1872.

The district consists of many towns and villages lying around Serchhip. Thenzawl is the second biggest town after Serchhip and is one of the few flat areas with a beautiful grassy landscape. Close to Thenzawl is the spectacular Vantawng Falls.

Zoluti Hriatrengna Lung or Memory Stone is dedicated to Mary Winchester who was known as Zoluti by the Mizo people. The spot where Zoluti was handed back to British officials on 21 January 1872 is Aw-A Mual at Kawlri Tlang near Serchhip Kawnpui. Here, there is a stone erected on 5 January 1994 in memory of Zoluti, daughter of Dr Winchester, a manager in one of the Assam Tea Gardens.

Chhingpuii Thlan which means the Tomb of the Unmarried Woman is a stone erected in memory of Chhingpuii about 4 km north of Chhingchhip. This stone is named after a beautiful woman Chhingpuii who married Kaptuanga but was kidnapped and killed during the second civil war. It is after this that Kaptuanga was devastated and committed suicide.

Paragliding has become popular in Serchhip and can be practised at Chuanhnuai which lies between Serchhip and Keitum Village. It has now become so popular that a Paragliding Festival was organised attracting paragliders from other states as well. This is the only paragliding location available in Mizoram. Paragliders take off from Chuanhnuai and land in a very beautiful valley called Zawlpui leilet.

Travel Bucket List: India – Mizoram Part 1

Posted on December 19, 2022 by memoriesandsuch

Known as the Songbird of India and one of India’s easternmost states, Mizoram is the southernmost of the seven sister states, sharing borders with the Indian states of Tripura, Manipur and Assam and also international borders with Bangladesh and Myanmar.

The name of the state is derived from Mizo, the self-described name of the native inhabitants, and Ram, which in the Mizo language means land. Thus Mizoram means the land of the Mizos. A landlocked state, Mizoram is India’s fifth smallest state with the Tropic of Cancer running through the state nearly to its middle.

Like several other northeastern states of India, Mizoram was previously part of Assam until 1972, when it was carved out as a Union Territory. In 1986 the Indian Parliament adopted the 53rd amendment of the Indian Constitution, which allowed for the creation of the State of Mizoram on 20 February 1987, as India’s 23rd state. Mizoram is the 2nd least populous state in the country and covers an area of approximately 21,087 sq km, of which approximately 91% is forested.

About 95% of Mizoram’s population descends from a diverse tribal origin. Mizos first began to settle in the area in the 16th century, coming in waves of immigration from Southeast Asia. This immigration lasted through the 18th century. Mizoram has the highest concentration of tribal people in India and the people of Mizoram are protected under the Indian constitution as a Scheduled Tribe. Mizoram is one of three states in India with a Christian majority with about 87% of the population following Christianity with people belonging to various denominations, mostly Presbyterians in the north and Baptists in the south. Mizoram is a highly literate agrarian economy with about 20% of the state’s population living below the poverty line.

Because of the sensitive nature of the state, so close to international borders, Indians need an Inner Line Permit or ILP to enter the state which cost INR 170 for a 15-day permit. The process to get an extension is slightly difficult. One can also get ILP documentation done at the Lengpui Airport in Aizwal.

Mizoram is derived from two Mizo words, Mizo and Ram where Mizo refers to native inhabitants and Ram means land. There is a dispute on the term zo. According to one view, zo means a highland or hill and Mizoram means the land of the Mizo people. There is also a view that says zo may also mean a cold region and therefore, Mizo may also signify people of the cold region. As with other tribes of northeastern India, the origin of the Mizos is shrouded in mystery. The people living in the Mizo Hills were generally referred to as the Cucis or Kukis by their neighbouring ethnic groups which was also a term adopted by the British. The majority of the tribes classified as Mizo today most likely migrated to their present territories from the neighbouring countries in several waves, starting around 1500. Before the British colonial rule, the various Mizo clans lived in autonomous villages with the tribal chiefs enjoying an eminent position in the gerontocratic Mizo society. The chiefs were the absolute rulers of their respective clans’ territories, although they remained under the nominal political jurisdictions of the Rajas of Manipur, Tripura and Burma.

The Mizo Hills formally became part of British India in 1895, and practices such as head-hunting were banned in Mizoram as well as neighbouring regions. The northern and southern Mizo Hills became the Lushai Hills, with Aizawl as their headquarters by declaring the whole area as an excluded area till Indian independence. After Christian missionaries arrived, the majority of the population became Christians in the first half of the 20th century.

Post-Indian independence, the number of tribal chiefs had increased to over 200 with the educated elites campaigning against the tribal chiefdoms under the banner of the Mizo Union. As a result, the hereditary rights of the 259 chiefs were abolished under the Assam-Lushai District Act, 1954. Village courts were re-implemented in the Mizo region along with other parts of Assam.

A period of protests and armed insurgency followed in the 1960s, which resulted in the Mizo National Front or MNF seeking independence from India which failed to garner public support or participation. In an attempt to counter these insurgency threats, the Indian government bombed state areas affected by insurgency, which is the only known bombing of India on its soil on 5 March 1966. In 1971, the government agreed to convert the Mizo Hills into a Union Territory, which became Mizoram in 1972. Following the Mizoram Peace Accord of 1986 between the Government and the MNF, Mizoram became a full-fledged state of India in 1987.

Geographically, Mizoram is a land of rolling hills, valleys, rivers and lakes. As many as 21 major hill ranges or peaks of different heights run through the length and breadth of the state, with plains scattered here and there. Phawngpui Tlang also known as the Blue Mountain, situated in the southeastern part of the state, is the highest peak in Mizoram at 2,210 m or 7,250 ft. About 76% of the state is covered by forests, 8% is fallow land, 3% is barren and considered uncultivable area, while cultivable and sown area constitutes the rest. Slash-and-burn or jhum cultivation, though discouraged, remains in practice in Mizoram and affects its topography. According to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, as of 2021, Mizoram has the highest forest cover as a percentage of its geographical area of any Indian state, at 84.53% forest.

Aizwal
Mizoram’s capital, Aizawl was officially established on 25 February 1890 and is the largest city in the state as well as the centre of administration, the state assembly house and the civil secretariat. Located north of the Tropic of Cancer in the northern part of Mizoram, Aizwal is situated on a ridge 1,132 m above sea level, with the Tlawng river valley to its west and the Tuirial river valley to its east.

In 1871–72, the disorderly conduct of Khalkom, a Mizo chief, compelled the British to establish an outpost that later became Aizawl village about 14 km from Sairang from where one could travel by flat-bottomed boat. In 1892-95 Aizawl became accessible from Silchar by a fair-weather road. The Indian Air Force carried out air strikes on the town during the March 1966 Mizo National Front uprising, following which the MNF withdrew to Lunglei. Until 1966, Aizawl was a large village but the regrouping of Mizo villages after the uprising made it become a larger town and then a city. Aizawl has become the centre of the Mizoram road network connecting the north and south, east and west of the state. More than 25% of the state’s population resides in Aizawl.

Primarily dominated by the Mizo Tribe, Aizawl and its surrounding areas are lush with rolling hills and abundant greenery. An Inner Line Pass or ILP is required for entry into Mizoram which is available in Guwahati, Silchar, Shillong, New Delhi, and Kolkata.

The Durtlang Hills is located in the northern part of Aizawl and is a popular attraction with viewpoints offering panoramic views of the capital city. One can drive to the destination and once there engage in a bit of light hiking and trekking. The best time to visit the Durtlang Hills would be in the morning when the sun is not as harsh as it would be during the afternoon.

Located in Kidron Valley, the Solomon Temple is a grand church constructed by the religious group Kohhran Thianghlim, as The Holy Church. The church was founded in 1984 and is one of the largest in the state. The Temple is a square site measuring 180 ft on each side with the interior measuring 120 ft. A verandah 30 ft wide is attached to the exterior of the main hall on all four sides and is called the porch of Solomon’s Temple. The main building has twelve main doors and above the porch are four pillars, each carrying seven stars of David, meant to represent the seven churches of the Book of Revelation. On each of the pillars is a picture of the Cross of Jesus Christ and the emblem of the Holy Church is embedded. Atop the porch is an idol of two Angels blowing trumpets which face the top of the pillar and flank the northern side of the pillar, which is now used as the main entrance. The temple has four towers, one on each corner with each tower topped with a crown, representing the Crown of Salvation, the Crown of Righteousness, the Crown of Life and the Crown of the Overcomer. Two intersecting horizontal ridges cross in the middle of the pitched roof such that when viewed from the air they form a cross, representing the new covenant. There is a park with the complex as well as a restaurant, an educational institute and a social service centre. The Salvation Army Temple has wonderful bell chimes and these can be heard throughout the city on quiet mornings.

A popular picnic spot, the Berawtlang Tourist Complex is located around 7 km from Aizwal and hosts multiple ceremonial functions and houses cottages as well as restaurants. Fairs are frequently conducted here, with various cultural activities, serving as a recreational centre. This place is

Located right in the centre of the city, the Mizoram State Museum displays the rich heritage of Mizoram. Along with the numerous archaeological artefacts, photographs and natural history specimens, an entire gallery here is dedicated to the Mizo tribes. An ethnographic museum with multipurpose collections on display, the museum has five galleries, namely the Textile Gallery, Ethnology, History, Anthropology, Natural History, and an Archaeology Terrace occupying four floors. The museum was established in April 1977 by the Tribal Research Institute under the Education Department. In 1989, it came under the Art and Culture department. The museum was earlier housed in a rented building but on 14 July 1990, it was moved to a new building.

Falkawn Village
Located just 18 km south of Aizwal, Falkawn Village is a model village depicting the lifestyle of the Mizo people and is frequented by tourists. A unique cultural extravaganza for first-time visitors to Mizoram. Falkawn village depicts the livelihood and culture of the Mizo people, who form the biggest tribe in the state. The Art & Culture Department of the state government has set up a Cultural Centre or Zokhua at Falkawn in 1992 which is a mini live museum where the Zawlbuk or the dormitory, the Lal In or the Chief’s House, the Pum or the Blacksmith and other typical Mizo houses are erected. There are freedom fighter memorial stones and a Taitesena commemoration stone. Entry fees are INR 20 for adults and INR 10 for children.

Travel Bucket List: India – Tripura Part 4

Posted on November 23, 2022 by memoriesandsuch

Baramura Eco Park
Nestled in the verdant forest at the fringes of Baramura–Deotamura reserve forest where Baramura hill range meets the plains at a distance of about 37 km east of Agartala, the Baramura Eco Park located at the foothills of the Baramura hills is a manifestation of the conservation need of the ecological biodiversity of the Baramura hills. The Baramura hills are a breathtakingly beautiful expanse of rolling hills characterised by thickly forested hill ridges varying in altitude between 90 m to 136 m and valleys with dense bamboo patched, herbs & shrubs that is home to astoundingly diverse ecological biodiversity. The forest also supports the livelihood needs of nearly 2,500 tribal families.

Kalapania Nature Park
Located about 116 km south of Agartala in Sabroom in South Tripura, the Kalapania Nature Park was established in 2004 covering 21 hectares of deserted land into a nature’s paradise set amidst a charming ambience of natural beauty. A lake with serene blue water in midst of two hillocks in the park’s centre divides it into two halves. There is a boating service as well as beautiful cottages around the small hills surrounding the water body. The main attraction of the park is a nature interpretation centre located in the middle of the park.

Tepania Eco Park
Established in 1995 inside RadhaKishorepur Reserve Forest, the Tepania Eco-Park lies about 47 km south of Agartala and 5 km from Agartala Udaipur. Over the years the Eco Park set amidst a charming ambience of natural beauty has been upgraded and today has an area of 155 hectares and has turned out to be a huge tourist attraction. The Eco Park has a modern well maintained orchid house which houses 225 species of orchids. There is a cactus House which has 250 samples collected from various parts of the country. A treehouse inside the park offers a night stay facility in a sylvan environment. The other attractions include a unique wooden hanging bridge, a medicinal garden and a watch tower for viewing the wildlife.

Khumulwang Eco Park
Located on the outskirts of Agartala within the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council, Head Quarter Khumulwng, the Khumulwng Eco Park has been raised in the lap of nature covering an area of 14.5 hectares of land. Khumulwang, which means the valley of flowers, the park is well organised in different sections such as the flower park, the children’s park and the science park. Boating facilities are also available. The Tribal Museum cum Heritage Centre is located at Khumulwng which has models of the 19 tribes of the state.

Jampui Hills
Located about 200 km east of Agartala, the Jampui Hills are the highest hill range in the state bordering Mizoram at an altitude of 3000 feet above sea level. Jampui is famous for its charming landscapes and bracing climate. The excellent climatic condition, green forests, beautiful orange gardens, views of the rising and setting sun are wonderful sights for tourists. The hill range has 11 villages inhabited by the Mizo or Lushai tribes and also by the Reang tribes. The main occupation of the villagers is orange cultivation.

The view of the rising and setting sun from the various viewpoints in Jampui Hills is a wonderful sight for visitors. The various viewpoints in the hill range provide excellent panoramic views of the valley and villages of Mizoram. From the watchtower at the highest peak, Betlingchip at 3200 feet above sea level, one can view the Chittagong Hill Tracts, the Kanchanpur – Dasda valley and other hill ranges of Tripura and Mizoram unfold. Every November, the unique Orange & Tourism festival is celebrated here which attracts a large number of tourists, both domestic and foreign. During the monsoon season, the hill is covered with floating clouds and it provides a rare experience for tourists. The formation of clouds at the bottom of the hill range and its gradual ascendance from the bottom to the top slowly engulfing the whole hill range in its mystic lap is an experience to treasure. The Tourist Department of the Government of Tripura has constructed a very modern tourist lodge, The Eden Tourist Lodge at the Vanghmun village in the Jampui hills which has a capacity of 20 persons and is well equipped with all modern amenities.

Dumboor Lake, Dhalai
A charming water body about 135 km southeast of Agartala, Dumboor Lake is located in Amarpur. The lake is shaped like a tabor-shaped small drum, or the Dumboor of Lord Shiva from which the name Dumboor originates. The lake is spread over an area of 41 sq km and there are 48 islets inside the lake. The surrounding hills and the islets are enchantingly emerald green and present a captivating scenic spectacle. The winter months attract hundreds of migratory birds which gives the lake the status of healthy wetland habitat. There is a hydel project near the lake where the River Gomati originates and the area is called Tirthamukh where a big fair is held every year on Pous Sankranti on 14th January. The Lake is on the confluence of the rivers Raima and Saima. Boating facilities are available in Dumboor Lake.

Rudrasagar Lake
Also known as Twijilikma, the Rudrasagar Lake is located in Melaghar and is a picturesque lake that has lately been recognised as one of the wetlands of national importance for the conservation of resources and their sustainable use. Also known as Rudijala, three rivers named Noacherra, Kemrali Cherra and Durlavnaraya form the lake. The highlight of the lake is the magnificent Neermahal Palace built in 1930 which is situated on the northeast bank of the lake. The lake occupies an area of 2.4 sq km and is situated about 52 km south of Agartala. Rudrasagar Lake is a natural sedimentation reservoir, which receives flow from three perennial streams. After settling the sediment from the received flow, clear water discharges into the river Gumati through a connective channel, Kachigang. Rudrasagar is a potential Important Bird Area and attracts a large number of waterfowl in winter. Among the rarer species recorded are the endangered Baer’s pochard and near-threatened ferruginous duck.

Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary & Clouded Leopard National Park
Home to a variety of wildlife especially birds and primates, the Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary & Clouded Leopard National Park is not just a wildlife sanctuary but also an academic and research centre. Spread over an area of 18.5 sq km about 27 km south of Agartala, the sanctuary came into existence in 1972 to conserve and propagate the biodiversity of the area. With the addition of a Botanical Garden, a deer park and a zoo, the bio complex was subsequently upgraded as the Sepahijala Wildlife Sanctuary in early 1987. More than 150 species of residential birds, migratory birds, orchid gardens, boating facilities, wildlife, botanical garden, zoo, elephant joy-rides, and rubber and coffee plantations beckon the tourists all through the year. The added incentive for animal lovers is the famous spectacled monkey which is now a rare species. The sanctuary has more than 456 plant species, many kinds of bamboo and a variety of grasses and medicinal plants as well as a rich population of birds and animals. The sanctuary also offers spectacular views of coffee and rubber plantations and has boating facilities in the lake and a joyride in the toy train. The Clouded Leopard National Park is a part of the Sipahijala Wildlife Sanctuary and was established in 2007 with an area of 5 sq km.

Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary
Located about 111 km south of Agartala, the Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary is a wildlife and biodiversity sanctuary spread over an area of 164 sq km. Founded in 1988, this sanctuary is famous for the sizeable population of the Gaur or Indian Bison. The sanctuary also harbours a good stock of avifauna population which is integral to the prevalent ecosystem. Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary is also the habitat of and home to the highly endangered and only ape species of the Indian subcontinent, the Hoolock Gibbon and primates like the Capped Langur and the Golden Langur. The sanctuary has several perennial water rivulets, water bodies and grasslands with patches of virgin forests that are rich in rare vegetation. Closed on Tuesdays, the sanctuary is open between 9 am and 5 pm on other days.

Rajbari National Park
Situated in the Trishna Wildlife Sanctuary, the Rajbari National Park is spread over 31.63 sq km. The park is very famous owing to its picturesque surroundings and is one of the many places where one can witness Mother Nature at her best. One can expect to come across various wild animals including the world-famous Indian Gaur, also known as bison, deer, Golden langurs, Pheasants, and many such species. The Bison reserve was entrenched in the Sanctuary to protect the endangered species. With the establishment of this reserve, the primary goal was to restore the natural living habitat of the Bison and strengthen laws put forth for their protection from poachers. The park receives plenty of water from the many rivulets and water bodies situated in the sanctuary which ensures a regular and constant supply for the nourishment of the plant and animal species. It is also extremely abundant in forest reserves and is credited as one of the most conservative reserves that boast of rich biodiversity. The vegetation found in the sanctuary is of great diversity with several herbs, shrubs, tree species and climbers. Four types of forests can be found here including the tropical semi-evergreen forest, the east Himalayan lower Bhabar sal, moist mixed deciduous forest and Savannah woodlands. Bamboo is abundantly available. The safari at the Rajbari National Park is a must and is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of the park. Jeep safaris and wildlife trips are organised regularly to impart knowledge and awareness regarding the environment and its inhabitants to visitors. The magnificent lake situated in the park is a beautiful spot to enjoy a picnic with your friends and family. The park offers boating facilities available at nominal rates as well. The park is open daily between 10 am to 5 pm on all days except Fridays when the park is closed. Entry fees are INR 10 per person.

Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary
Notified in 1988 by the Forest Department, the Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary lies about 160 km northeast of Agartala. It is spread over an area of only 0.86 sq km and was part of the erstwhile protected forests in Mouja Rowa. The sanctuary, despite its small size, has over the years gained a great deal of popularity because of its natural beauty and is the only wildlife sanctuary in North Tripura. The sanctuary is particularly rich in birds and reptiles with large flocks of migratory waterfowl congregating in the several water reservoirs in the protected area. The sanctuary is also home to a large variety of plant species including several species of medicinal value. Rowa Wildlife Sanctuary is open to visitors throughout the year.

Gomati Wildlife Sanctuary
Also known as the Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary, the Gomati Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest sanctuary in Tripura, located in the southeast corner of the state, about 135 km southeast of Agartala. It is spread over an area of 390 sq km. Adjoining the sanctuary, there is a vast water reservoir covering approximately 300 sq km which attracts many local and migratory water birds. The sanctuary also has elephants, bison, sambars and barking deer as well as other animals and reptiles. One of the landmarks of this sanctuary is Lake Dumbur, which attracts around 17 migratory bird species and 126 native bird species in the cold winters, but the number of bird visits has declined significantly in recent years.

And this brings us to the end of this exotic and underrated state. Do drop me a line if I have missed any must-see places and also what are your favorite places to visit in Tripura.

Travel Bucket List: India – Tripura Part 3

Posted on November 21, 2022 by memoriesandsuch

Kailashahar
Tripura’s fourth largest town, Kailashahar is located near the northwest Bangladesh border, about 155 km northeast of Agartala and is surrounded by the Unakoti hills Tripura’s longest river, River Manu flows through the town.

Kailashahar was the ancient capital of the Tripuri kingdom. Its history is associated with Unakoti, noted for its 7th to 9th-century stone and rock-cut images. A Shiva disciple who started the Tripurabda or the Tripuri calendar prayed to Lord Shiva in Chhambulnagar village on the banks of the Mau river. It is speculated that Chhambulnagar, which is mentioned in Rajmala, was situated near Unakoti Hill. The Prince prayed for Mahadeva in Unakoti. Kailashahar may be the legendary Chhambulnagar. Some believers thought that Har or Lord Shiva resides in Kailash. Therefore, the place was known as Kailash Har which was later on transformed into Kailashahar. Tripura King Adi-Dharmapha ruled there in the 7th century.

Today the town is famous for tea estates, with about 16 tea estates in Kailashahar dating back to the 16th century. The tea leaves grown here are entirely organic. Trekking options are also present here. This place is also known for the bamboo work done here, as well as handloom products made here.

Dedicated to Lord Krishna, the Lakhi Narayan Bari temple was installed by Krishnanada Sevayet and has monumental value today. The Chouddo Devotar Mandir or the 14 Deities Temple is dedicated to Ama or Tripuri, the mother of the people of Tripura. It is situated atop a tortoise-shaped hill with Lake Kalyansagar to its eastern side. Along with the several inscriptions of shlokas and ancient paintings found here, a structure looking like a Buddhist Stupa is seen on the roof of this temple. This place is located just 14km from the city of Agartala.

Unakoti
Lying 178 km to the northeast of Agartala, Unakoti is an ancient pilgrimage centre and hill. The Kokborok name of Unakoti is Subrai Khung as claimed by Jamatia Hoda. Unakoti hill means one less a koti or crore or ten million in Hindi and Bengali. The hill hosts an ancient Shaivite place of worship with huge rock reliefs celebrating Lord Shiva. The carvings are located in a beautifully landscaped forest area with green vegetation all around which adds to the beauty of the carvings.

Many of the rock carvings here depict the life of Lord Shiva as well as other deities from the Hindu pantheon. Sculptures of the Nandi Bull, Lord Ram, Lord Ganesha, and Lord Hanuman can also be seen here. The images found at Unakoti are of two types: namely rock-carved figures and stone images. Among the rock-cut carvings, the central Shiva head and gigantic Ganesha figures deserve special mention. The central Shiva head known as Unakotiswara Kal Bhairava is about 30 feet high including an embroidered head-dress which itself is 10 feet high. On each side of the head-dress of the central Shiva, there are two full-size female figures – one of Durga standing on a lion and another female figure on the other side. In addition, three enormous images of Nandi Bull are found half-buried in the ground. There are various other stone as well as rock-cut images at Unakoti.

The carvings are said to date to the 7th and 9th centuries if not earlier. According to Hindu mythology, Lord Shiva once spent a night here en route to Kashi. 99,99,999 gods and goddesses followed him. He had asked his followers to wake up before sunrise and make their way towards Kashi. Unfortunately, none awoke, except Lord Shiva himself. Before he set out for Kashi alone, he put a curse on the others, turning them to stone and that is how the site got its name.

Unakoti also makes a good place for hiking, trekking and other activities given the terrain and the natural offerings of the area. Every year a big fair popularly known as the Ashokastami Mela is held in April and is visited by thousands of pilgrims. Another smaller festival takes place in January.

Udaipur
Known as Tripura’s tourism capital, Udaipur was formerly known as Rangamati and is the third biggest urban area in the state. The town was the capital of the state during the reign of the Manikya Dynasty and is famous for the Tripura Sundari temple also known as Tripureswari temple, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. Udaipur lies about 51 km south of Agartala. The Gomati river passes through the heart of Udaipur.

Udaipur is dotted with temples the most famous of which is the Tripura Sundari temple, which is one of the 51 Shakti Peethas. The temple was constructed by Maharaja Dhanya Manikya Debbarma in 1501. There is a big lake beside the temple known as Kalyan Sagar. The Bhubaneshwari Temple is another famous temple and the Gunabati Temple, The Jagannath Temple, The Mahadev Temple are other famous temples. Udaipur is also known as the lake city and has many beautiful lakes. Some of them are the Jagannath Dighi, the Mahadev Dighi, the Amar Sagar, the Dhanisagar and Kalyan Sagar. It also has a national library named Nazrul Granthagar, after Kazi Nazrul Islam. The Tepania Eco Park and the Puran Rajbari are other attractions of Udaipur.

The Gunabati Group of Temples was built in the name of Maharani Gunabati, the wife of Maharaja Govinda Manikya, in 1668. The two other temples also bear a contemporary look but their actual history is still to be unveiled. The architecture of these temples resembles other contemporary temples of Tripura except that the topmost parts are without a stupa. The core chambers are marked by the presence of a pitcher circular core chamber and its vestibule which was large with a stupa-like crown is beautifully crafted like a lotus.

Ambassa
Ambassa is a quiet little town popular for its several temples and pleasant surroundings. Initially, a hilly area, which was covered in dense woods, the forests were cleared to create the district only in 1995. Boasting picturesque surroundings and ample natural resources, the town has not only become a popular tourist spot but also has earned fame for being extremely resourceful. Ambassa is inhabited by tribes which mainly live in houses built on platforms. Other residents have mostly migrated from India and Bangladesh. The places of attraction in Ambassa are its several beautiful gardens and the plethora of temples.

A massive juice plant is situated in Nalkata, some 38 km from Ambassa which is a major tourist attraction. Around the spot are also several handicraft shops which one can visit. The Longtharai Mandir is dedicated to Lord Shiva and is believed to be where Lord Shiva rested while he was on his way to Mount Kailash. The temple is situated atop a hill with a picturesque valley below which is how the temple’s name, Longtharai came to be as the word means a deep valley. Beautiful Khumpi flowers bloom here and the peace and calm at the temple is beyond description. Located at a distance of around 35 km from Ambassa, the Kamaleswari Mandir is a temple that is enshrined by Goddess Kali who is also known by the name of Goddess Kamaleswari.

The Sanaiya Waterfalls have a green and soothing natural beauty with panoramic views of the Kamalpur valley from a hilltop adjoining the border with Bangladesh. The village, consisting of the Upper and Lower Sanaiya Reang Para is the habitat of the Reang tribes, which are one of the prominent tribes of Tripura. The waterfall located in a gorge provides a unique tourist spot.

Pilak Archaeological Sites
Located at Jolaibari, about 100 km south of Agartala, Pilak is an archaeological site in South Tripura. Many images and structures, belonging to Buddhist and Hindu sects, have been discovered here since 1927 with the antiquities found here dating to between the 8th and 13th centuries and are on display at the Tripura Government Museum. There runs a hilly rivulet near the place which is known as Pilak Stream and the whole area is beautiful. Thousands of visitors gathered here during the Pilak Festival held in December.

The archaeological site used to be a part of the Samatata kingdom in historical Bengal and is part of a series of archaeological sites that includes Mainamati and Somapura Mahavihara in Bangladesh. The earliest dates of Hindu and Buddhist sculptures, terracotta plaques and seals found at the site are between the 8th and 9th centuries. The artefacts unearthed at the site belong to the Bengal’s Palas and Guptas sculptural and architectural features; also the style of the Arakan in Myanmar and indigenous features are noticeable. The Archaeological Survey of India or ASI carried out excavations at the site in the early 1960s when stupas built with bricks were found. Recent investigations by the ASI unearthed statues of the Buddha and idols of Mahayana Buddhism.

The Pilak archaeological site represents both Hinduism and Buddhism co-existing peacefully. Artefacts of Hinduism are in the form of sculptures and plaques of Hindu gods and a large number of antiquities of the Hinayana, Mahayana, and Vajrayana Buddhism practices. The site is strewn with a large number of terracotta plaques and statues and very large stone sculptures of Avalokiteśvara and Narasimha have been unearthed at the site.

The inscribed terracotta seals found at Pilak depict Buddhist stupas of very small sizes. In Tripura, it is the seal which is worshipped and not the stupa. There is a cone-shaped stone slab with an image of Buddha in an upright posture, dated to the 8th century. A statue of Avalokiteshvara with two arms found at the site is now exhibited in the Tripura Government Museum. A sculpture of the 8th or 9th centuries found here is that of Goddess Marichi, venerated by both the Mahayana and Vajrayana Buddhists. However, it is now an iconic idol which is installed in a Hindu temple known as Vasudev-badi. The idol in an upright posture is called Pratyalida and is mounted on a simple plinth, and is well preserved. A sculpted sandstone statue from the site dated to the 8th – 9th century is of Chunda which is now revered as Raja Rajeshwari in a temple at Muhuripur. The image is carved with 18 arms in a posture called Vajaparyankasana deified over a padmapitha or a lotus pedestal. A new find from the Sundari Tilla is a stupa dated to the 11th century similar to the architectural features of the rule of the Palas of Bengal. A Hindu religious terracotta image made in fired clay found at Pilak is of Trimurti. Another image from the Sagardheba mound is of Surya, the Sun god, riding a chariot driven by seven horses, dated to the 7th to 9th centuries which is deified in a temple in the Rajesvari Ashram in Muhuripur.

Chabimura
Located about 77 km southeast of Agartala and about 30 km east of Udaipur, Chabimura is famous for its panels of rock carvings on the steep mountain wall on the bank of the River Gomati. There are huge images carved of Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, Lord Kartika, Goddess Mahisasurmardini Durga and other Gods and Goddesses. These images date back to the 15th and 16th centuries. These beautiful images are curved with a lot of dexterity on the rocky faces of Devtamura which is steep at 90 degrees. The hill ranges are covered with thick jungles and one can reach this place only after trekking through these jungles. The road leading to the river bank where the rock-cut images exist is a treat to the eye. The area is also an eco-tourism centre.

The first panel is just on the other side of the bank measuring 10.3 m in height and is spread over an area of 28 m and is south-facing. The area to the right of the panel extends up to 60 m where some other images existed. At present some of the images are lost by sliding of rock panels. The second image is that of Mahishasurmardini and is about one km away from the 1st panel and is curved at a height of 10 meters from the river bed. The local tribe worshipped it as Chakrak-Ma. This is one of the largest reliefs of the Goddess present in the country which itself makes it unique. The image has a height of 10.70 meters and a width of 7.70 meters. The face is depicted as round with dishevelled hair-and several hair locks. She is ten-armed and is holding a weapon in nine arms except for the lower arm which holds the hair of the demon king. The weapons are mostly indistinct due to erosion and floral growth.

Mahamuni Pagoda, Manubankul
The Mahamuni Pagoda at Manubankul is located about 134 km south of Agartala. The Buddhist temple not only draws devotees from within India, but it also attracts Buddhist pilgrims from countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Japan and Bangladesh. The temple was built under the leadership of Mathu Mog and others. The monastery bears the Buddhist idioms of expressions in religious architecture. Annually, during March and April, a week-long festival is held and the festival brings about a lot of happiness and bliss to the people. During the festival Lord Buddha is worshipped in the monastery by both Buddhist and Hindu devotees. The Mahamuni Buddha Temple is open throughout the year and the visiting hours are from 6 am to 7 pm.

Buddhist Stupa, Boxanagar
About 36 km southwest of Agartala lies the town of Boxanagar, where, recently after the denudation of a natural forest area, ruins of a brick-built building emerged on the edge of the border with Bangladesh. The local people initially attributed the remains to an ancient temple of Manasa the Goddess of Snakes. After the Archaeological Survey of India took over the site, excavations began and an idol of Lord Buddha was discovered and it was confirmed that it had been a Buddha temple. Other discoveries here include a massive Buddhist stupa, a Chaityagriha, a monastery and other associated burnt brick structures.

The brick-built stupa exposed through archaeological excavation is of a square plan. The basement of the stupa is arrayed in eight mouldings in diminishing order over which the tapering medhi is set with mud mortar and burnt bricks of different sizes. The ruin of the Chaityagriha has been exposed on the eastern side of the stupa which is rectangular on plan and is aligned in the east-west direction. The superstructure of the Chaityagriha is completely damaged except on the side walls which survived up to 1.60 m. The brick-built monastery have a long corridor between rows of five cells on each side.

The excavation of another mound at Boxanagar has exposed a fully burnt-brick structure with Triratha projections having a square sacred chamber which appears to contain the extant remains of three spokes. These spokes are found radiating out from a semi-circular structure located on the eastern side of the sacred chamber. In front of this structure, there is a rectangular hall enclosed by a wall all around. A brick-rammed floor is provided inside this hall probably for facilitating the congregation of devotees. A wide Pradakshinapatha is also provided around these structures.

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