This year, I sought a Christmas away from the familiar. My journey led me from the festive hum of mainland India to the quiet, mist-laden hills of Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram. This wasn’t a trip about grand celebrations, but about finding meaning in stillness, community, and the gentle warmth of Mizo hospitality. This is the story of my journey—a guide for those who seek not just to see a place, but to feel it.
For anyone planning a similar journey, let’s cover the essentials first. Reaching Aizawl typically involves a flight from a major city like Kolkata. Upon landing, you must obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP), which can be done easily at the airport counter or pre-applied for online. A taxi from the airport to the city center costs around ₹1500, and for daily sightseeing, renting a taxi will set you back ₹2500–₹3000. Remember that sunsets are early in the Northeast, and during Christmas, many establishments close. Lastly, while UPI is present, network can be patchy; carrying sufficient cash is always a wise decision.
The Journey to the Land of the Hill People
My journey from Delhi, with a layover in Kolkata, felt like a slow transition into another world. The name “Mizoram” itself translates to “Land of the Hill People,” a name that perfectly captures the state’s identity. The history of the Mizo people is one of epic migration—from China’s Yalong River, through Myanmar, and finally settling in these lush hills. Their story, from becoming a Union Territory in 1971 to a full-fledged state in 1987, is woven into the very fabric of modern India.
Arriving in Aizawl, the first thing that strikes you is the city’s verticality. Houses cling to steep hillsides, and roads wind around them like ribbons. My hotel, though centrally located, was perched on a hill, making every walk an exercise in mindfulness and a discovery of new, breathtaking views.
A Christmas of Quiet Connection
Christmas in Aizawl was unlike any I had experienced. It was intimate, deeply spiritual, and centered entirely around community. My first quest, funnily enough, was for a Christmas cake on December 25th, which I couldn’t find as every bakery was closed. The real celebration, I learned, wasn’t in commercial festivities, but in togetherness.
The next day, I stumbled upon a community preparing for a grand feast. Men managed giant pots of meat over open fires, women chopped vegetables with practiced ease, and children ran around, their laughter echoing in the cool air. I was a curious outsider, yet I was met with nothing but warm smiles. Later, I was graciously invited to a community dinner at a local church. As a vegetarian in a predominantly pork-loving state, I was prepared for a challenge, but my hosts went out of their way to ensure I had a fulfilling meal of dal, rice, and freshly prepared vegetables. It was a simple act of kindness that spoke volumes.
The children were my most delightful guides, excitedly telling me about their church activities and their anticipation for New Year traditions, which they explained are even bigger celebrations than Christmas.
Exploring Aizawl’s Soul: Churches, Cafés, and Viewpoints
My exploration of Aizawl was a gentle rhythm of walking, observing, and reflecting.
- The Quest for Laiputlang Cross: One evening, I tried to find the famous Laiputlang Cross. I got lost in the winding, residential lanes as dusk fell. Instead of feeling anxious, I felt a strange sense of peace. Guided by intuition and the distant sound of hymns, I walked through the dark until I saw it—the cross, beautifully lit against the night sky, standing sentinel over the city from its quiet church perch.
- Solomon’s Temple: This magnificent white structure is a must-visit. It’s not an ancient monument but a modern marvel of faith, founded by Dr. L.B. Sailo in 1984 after a divine vision. Constructed over 20 years and opened in 2017, it blends architectural styles and stands as a testament to one man’s unwavering devotion. It’s a place of immense peace and prayer.
- Café Culture: Aizawl has a thriving café culture, which became my haven during the quiet afternoons. Hopping between local cafes, I got a taste of the city’s modern pulse, a gentle counterpoint to its ancient traditions.
A Practical Guide for the Conscious Traveler
- Respect Local Customs: Especially during religious festivals like Christmas, be mindful, dress modestly when visiting churches, and respect the quiet pace of life.
- Vegetarian Food Journey: While Mizo cuisine is meat-heavy, finding vegetarian food is possible. I enjoyed simple but delicious meals of paneer, cauliflower, dal, and rice. A standout was a traditional vegetarian thali at Red Pepper for about ₹250, served on a banana leaf in a style beautifully reminiscent of South Indian meals.
- Support Local: Choose local cafes, buy handicrafts from local artisans, and always be a responsible tourist. Avoid plastic and leave no trace in this pristine landscape.
- Embrace the Walk: Aizawl is a city best explored on foot. Be prepared for steep climbs, but the views and unexpected encounters are worth every step.
A Final Reflection: Finding Stillness in the Hills
My time in Aizawl taught me that the most profound travel memories are often the simplest. It wasn’t about a checklist of sights, but about the feeling of the mist on my face, the taste of a shared meal, and the sound of prayer floating from a hilltop church. It was a reminder to “come for connection, not consumption.”
From Aizawl’s silent sunsets to the laughter echoing from church halls, I carried home not just stories—but stillness.
Leave a Reply