Reiek Tlang

35 kms to the west of Aizawl, Mizoram
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At an elevation of approximately 5079 feet above the sea level Reiek Tlang is a magnificent ridge of northern Mizoram about 35 kilometers to the west of Aizawl in Mamit district overlooking it comfortably. Once at Reiek Tlang one can opportune to view the surrounding mountains and valleys and the concrete vista of the city of Aizwal. On a clear day even the plains of Bangladesh are visible. The medium size village of Reiek is also located at Reiek Tlang.
 

Folklore has it that Van Indona or War of the Heavens was fought at Reiek Tlang. The spirit of Reiek Tlang was goddess Khawluahlali. She had a daughter named Ngaiteii who was very beautiful. The goddess ruled the place and her subjects and lived happily until the demon spirit of River Tlawng interfered to flow southwards through Reiek Tlang and Lungdar. Goddess Khawluahlali did not allow it being superior and the demon of the River Tlawng conceded defeat.
 
While goddess Khawluahlali and her subjects were busy celebrating the demon spirits of Chhawripial Tlang located on the west of Reiek mounted a surprise attack. The spirits of Reiek transformed themselves into falcons and a fierce battle was fought in the air. The spirits triumphed upon the aggressors but their joy was marred by the death of Khawluahlali's daughter, Ngaiteii. The goddess went into mourning. She would sit on the rock protruding at the peak, facing the sunset and reminiscing her daughter.
 

The mountain though appears to be of gentle slopes on its eastern side, has spectacular rocky cliffs notched with caves and caverns with luxuriant natural forest preserved since the days of the Mizo chiefs. It hosts splendid meadow-like vegetation in an otherwise rugged, mountainous region. It is just an hour’s drive from Aizawl for which taxis and private vehicles are available.
The mountain road takes one through the lush green hills, crossing the River Tlawng as it gushes through a narrow rocky gorge, and then climbs up the hills winding up gradually to make a comfortable drive, during which one comes across a few cascades which are a photographer’s delight.

The green temperate forests of Reiek Tlang are home to a wide range of wildlife, primarily hill birds like the rare Peregrine falcon. The road to Reiek peak is a trekkers' delight. It meanders up through thick forest, enchanted with the songs of birds. It is not usual to hear so many birds at the same time. It is a heaven for bird watchers. The thick forests surrounding the peak are few of the virgin forests that have remained from the time of the Sailoh chiefs and are considered sacred.

 

Before reaching Reiek, is the settlement of Ailawng, the village of Khuangchera, the great Mizo warrior of the 19th century known for his unsurpassed heroic deeds and stubborn resistance to the early British army expedition that cost him his life. There still exists a cave named after him for only he had the courage to explore it fully in those days of taboos and superstitions.
 
At Reiek, a typical Model Mizo Village consisting of the distinctive traditional huts of different Mizo sub-tribes, Mizo chieftain’s house, a bachelor dormitory is maintained by the Department of Tourism. This gives the visitors a peek into the glorious past of the valiant highlanders. A few modern houses have also been constructed nearby to show the changes that have taken place in the Mizo way of life in keeping pace with the modern developments. The Department also maintains The Reiek Tourist Resort along with a cafeteria at the base of Reiek Tlang and just above the village of Reiek providing decent accommodation and food.
Destination at a Glance
How to reach

By Air
Lengpui Airport is a domestic airport in Aizawl, Mizoram, India. The airport is connected by daily flights with Kolkata and Guwahati and three flights a week with Imphal and is located at a distance of 32 kilometers from Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram.
By Train
Nearest Railhead is at Silchar in Assam which is about 6 hrs drive from Aizawl.
By Road & Distances
NH-54 connects Aizawl with the rest of the country through Silchar. Buses and taxis are available from Silchar to Aizawl (6-8 hrs). Night services are also available. Aizawl is also accessible by road from Shillong and Guwahati.

Guwahati: 506 km; Imphal: 374 km; Kohima: 479 km; Shillong: 450 km; Agartala: 443 km.

Aizawl to Reiek Tlang is 35 kilometers via Aizwal-Seling-Champhai Road. Taxis ply to Reiek Tlang from Aizwal.

Location
Highlights