Geography and History of Mizoram


To know about the northern state of Mizoram, a basic idea on the Geography and History of Mizoram is very essential. Mizoram history goes back to the 16th century when the Mizo Tribes crossed the Chinese border to settle in erstwhile Shan state. During the 18th and 19th century, the area witnessed numerous tribal wars and in 1898, the region came under the British rule.

Mizoram's first political party was the Mizo Common People's Union, which was formed in 1946. After the Indian independence of 1947, the Bordoloi Committee was set up to advice on the tribal affairs of the north east. In 1952, the Lushai Hills Autonomous District Council was formed. However a demand for a separate state was raised and in 1955, a new political outfit - the Eastern Indian Union was founded. After many years of protests, Mizoram was recognized as a full fledged state of the country in 1987.

Mizoram geography includes the climate of the area, the flora and fauna of the state, the lakes, rivers and the general topography of the region. The state is blessed with many natural resources. Adorned with lush green mountains and free flowing rivers, Mizoram takes a paradisaical look. The region receives heavy rainfall and enjoys a very pleasing climate throughout the year. The presence of some major rivers like Tlau, Tlawng, Tuirini, Serlui and Mat and some picturesque lakes is also a highpoint of Mizoram's geography.

To know more about the Geography and History of Mizoram:

Climate of Mizoram

The general climate of Mizoram is one of the most pleasing one in the country. With moderate temperatures throughout the year, the Mizoram climate is loved by the tourists and visitors.

The summers are not very hot as the temperature remains between 20° to 30° Centigrade. The winters are very pleasing and cool with temperatures ranging from 21° to 11° Centigrade. Mizoram witnesses heavy rainfall in all parts of the state during the rainy season. Monsoon starts from June and lasts till the month of August. An annual average rainfall of 3000 millimeters is recorded in the state. During the months of March to April, heavy storms occur in most parts of the state.

Topography of Mizoram

The topography of Mizoram is not very different from its other north eastern neighbors. Mizoram topography is conspicuous with the presence of hills and mountain ranges. The tall green hills are moated with free flowing rivers. The eastern side of the state is situated at a higher altitude than the western side of the state.

The average height of the Mizoram hills is approximately 900 meters. The tallest among the hills is the Phawngpui - Blue Mountain with a height of 2210 Meters. The picturesque valleys and flat lands of Cachar, Mat, Champhai, Chamdur and Tlabung are blessed with very fertile soil and natural resources suitable for excellent agricultural and horticultural productions.

Rivers of Mizoram

The rivers of Mizoram constitute a major part of the topography of Mizoram. Aided by heavy rainfall during the rainy seasons and occasional rainfall throughout the year, most of the Mizoram rivers are perennial in nature.

Some of the rivers flowing through Mizoram are:

  • Tlawng or Dhaleshwari
  • Tiak
  • Teirei
  • Tuirini
  • Serlui
  • Chhimtuipui or Kolodyne
  • Khawthlangturipui or Karnaphuli
  • Tuichang
  • Tuirial or Sonai
  • Tuichawng
  • Mat
  • Tuipui or Khawchhak
  • Tuivawl

    The northern part of the state comprises of some important rivers like the Tlawng or Dhaleshwari, Tuirial or Sonai and some other rivers. Rivers like Mat, Tyao, Tuichang, and Tuipui fall in the southern part of Mizoram. The rivers of Mizoram are the main source of water for the people of the state. The perennial rivers of the state feed the lush green vegetation of Mizoram.

    Lakes of Mizoram

    The picturesque Lakes of Mizoram have emerged as popular tourism destinations of the state. Mizoram's lakes are the venues of a lot of activities like boating, fishing, camping and trekking. Some of the important lakes in Mizoram are:

  • Palak Lake
  • Tamdil Lake
  • Rengdil Lake
  • Rungdil Lake

    The Tamdil Lake has an interesting legend attached with its creation. Situated in Aizwal district, the Tamdil Lake is 110 kilometers away from the capital city. One of the most beautiful lakes of the state of Mizoram, the Palak Lake lies in the Lakher region. The oval shaped lake is bordered with stretches of deciduous and tropical evergreen forests. The lake is visited by numerous migratory birds making the place a haven for the bird watchers. The Rendil Lake is an artificial lake in Aizawl. It has emerged as one of the prime tourist attractions of the state. The Rungdil Lake covers an area of 2.5 hectares. The lake is divided into two parts and surrounded by long stretches of forests.

    Mizoram Flora and Fauna

    The lush green vegetations and forests infested with many type of animals signify the rich Mizoram Flora & Fauna. The excellent flora and fauna of Mizoram is a strong reason behind its popularity among the tourists.

    The abundance of bamboo forests is one high point of Mizoram's flora. The hills of Mizoram have dense deciduous vegetations. The valleys and the mountain peaks are blessed with many known and unknown orchids. The ever admirable rhododendron is seen in abundance in these areas. The Blue Mountain is one such place where the Veitchiunum and Arboretum species of Rhododendron are found in plenty.

    The presence of thick forests and good climate facilitated the fauna of Mizoram. The animal kingdom of Mizoram comprises of several rare and endangered species. Some of the animals found in the Mizoram forests, wild life sanctuaries and national parks are:
    • Bear
    • Tiger
    • Hoolock Gibbon
    • Leopard
    • Porcupine
    • Mongoose
    • Claw-less Otter
    • Chinese Pangolin
    The forest areas and the lakes of Mizoram attract large number of migratory birds beside the local birds. Several species of Pheasants, Hawks, Eagles, Bulbuls, Herons and Egrets are sighted in Mizoram. Numerous species of butterflies, moths and many colorful insects are also found in these regions.

    Last Updated on 6 March 2013

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