Vantawng Falls

Vantawng Falls is the highest waterfall in Mizoram, a two-tiered fall of about 230 m on the Vanva River near Thenzawl in the Serchhip district. Vantawng Falls plunges down a thickly forested hillside in a long white ribbon, and it is best seen from the viewpoint and tower built on the opposite slope, since the steep jungle below makes the base almost impossible to reach.

Local tradition says the falls are named after Vantawnga, a man from Thenzawl remembered as a strong swimmer who drowned in the river here. Vantawng is part of a quiet countryside of bamboo forest and small villages, and Thenzawl, about 5 km away, is the nearest town and the usual base. Thenzawl is known for its handloom weaving, and many households weave the puan cloth for which Mizoram is known. The falls are at their fullest in and just after the monsoon, while the dry winter months give clearer skies but a thinner flow.

What to see

• The two-tiered fall from the viewing platform and tower
• Dense bamboo and hardwood forest across the valley
• Handloom workshops in Thenzawl weaving puan
• Village life on the drive through Serchhip district
• Birdlife in the forest in the early morning

What to wear

Wear comfortable walking shoes for the short path to the viewpoint, which can be muddy, and carry a rain jacket from May to September. Days are warm but evenings in the hills are cool, so pack a light jacket. Insect repellent helps in the forest. Dress modestly in villages; Mizoram is a devout Christian state and Sundays are kept quiet. Mizo women wear the puan wrap skirt, and Thenzawl is a good place to see it being woven or to buy one.

Local food to try

There are small tea stalls near the falls, but plan meals in Thenzawl or Serchhip. Try bai, a stew of greens, pork and bamboo shoot, vawksa rep (smoked pork), and chhangban, a sticky rice cake. Simple eateries serve rice with dal, fish or pork, and fruits such as passion fruit and oranges are sold in season. Vegetarian food is plain but available on request.

Good to know

• Best time: September to November, when the falls are full and skies clear
• Open in daylight, roughly 6am to 5pm
• Entry is free or charged at a nominal rate
• Allow one to two hours at the falls, and a full day from Aizawl
• About 5 km from Thenzawl; Aizawl is a long half-day drive to the north
• Foreign visitors need a Protected Area Permit for Mizoram; stay behind the railings at the viewpoint

Nearby places

Vantawng Falls is usually combined with a stay in Aizawl, where you can visit Solomon's Temple, and with Reiek Heritage Village west of the city. Across the state border, Neermahal and the lake palaces of Tripura are a long overland journey, better linked by flying via Agartala.