Solomon's Temple

Solomon's Temple is a large white church at Kidron Valley on the outskirts of Aizawl, the capital of Mizoram, built by the Kohhran Thianghlim, or Holy Church, a Mizo Christian denomination. Solomon's Temple is not a replica of the biblical Temple of Solomon; its name and its design draw on the biblical story, but it is a modern church, built slowly over many years with donations and the voluntary labour of its members.

Mizoram is one of the most Christian states in India. Missionaries arrived in the Mizo hills in the 1890s, and within a few generations most Mizos had become Christian, which shaped the state's schools, music and daily life. The Kohhran Thianghlim was founded in Mizoram in the 20th century, and Solomon's Temple is its spiritual centre. The church is large and gleaming white, and set on a hillside in green landscaped grounds, and it has become one of the most photographed buildings in the state.

What to see

• The white facade, best in morning light
• The landscaped grounds and steps leading up to the church
• The large prayer hall, when open to visitors
• Views over the Aizawl hills from the church terrace
• Choir singing if you attend a service respectfully

What to wear

Solomon's Temple is an active place of worship, so dress modestly: shoulders and knees covered, no beachwear, and quiet behaviour inside. Aizawl sits at about 1,100 m, so days are mild; bring a light jacket in winter and a rain jacket from May to September. Walking shoes help on the city's steep streets. On Sundays many Mizo women attend church in the puan, the woven wrap skirt of Mizoram, with a blouse.

Local food to try

Aizawl's Bara Bazar area is the place to try Mizo food. Look for bai, a stew of greens, pork and bamboo shoot, vawksa rep (smoked pork), and sawhchiar, rice porridge with meat. Many cafes in Aizawl serve coffee, cakes and noodles. Vegetarian meals are available, though most Mizo dishes contain pork. Restaurants and shops are mostly closed on Sundays, so plan meals ahead.

Good to know

• Best time: October to April; avoid visiting during Sunday services
• Open in daytime, roughly 9am to 5pm; interior access can be limited
• Free entry
• Allow about an hour
• At Kidron Valley, on the edge of Aizawl city; Lengpui airport is about 30 km
• Photography inside is often not permitted; foreign visitors need a Protected Area Permit for Mizoram

Nearby places

Solomon's Temple is a short trip from central Aizawl, and pairs well with Reiek Heritage Village, about an hour west. Vantawng Falls lies to the south near Thenzawl, and Ujjayanta Palace in Agartala, Tripura, is the nearest major palace, a long overland journey or a short flight away.