Are you looking for a refreshing and adventurous getaway in the Northeast of India? If yes, then you should not miss the chance to visit Vantawng Falls, one of the most spectacular and secluded waterfalls in the country.
Vantawng Falls is a natural wonder that will mesmerize you with its beauty, history, and culture. In this article, we will tell you everything you need to know about Vantawng Falls, including how to reach, when to visit, what to see and do, where to stay and eat, and more. Read on to discover why Vantawng Falls is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and thrill seekers.
How to Reach Vantawng Falls
Vantawng Falls is located in the Serchhip district of Mizoram, about 137 km from the state capital, Aizawl. The waterfall is situated in a dense forest, surrounded by hills and valleys. The nearest town to the waterfall is Thenzawl, which is about 5 km away. You can reach Vantawng Falls by air, train, or road, depending on your preference and budget.
By air:
The nearest airport to Vantawng Falls is Lengpui Airport in Aizawl, which is connected to major cities like Kolkata, Guwahati, and Imphal by regular flights. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or a bus to reach Thenzawl, which will take about 3 hours. From Thenzawl, you can take a local taxi or a jeep to reach the waterfall, which will take about 15 minutes.
By train:
The nearest railway station to Vantawng Falls is Silchar in Assam, which is about 180 km away. From Silchar, you can take a bus or a taxi to reach Aizawl, which will take about 6 hours. From Aizawl, you can follow the same route as mentioned above to reach the waterfall.
By road:
You can also drive to Vantawng Falls from Aizawl or other nearby cities, such as Guwahati, Shillong, or Agartala. The road conditions are good and scenic, but you may encounter some traffic and checkpoints along the way. The road distance from Aizawl to Vantawng Falls is about 137 km, which will take about 4 hours. You can also take a bus or a shared taxi from Aizawl to Thenzawl, which will cost you around Rs. 200 per person.
Best Time to Visit Vantawng Falls
Vantawng Falls is a perennial waterfall that flows throughout the year, but the best time to visit it is from October to March, when the weather is pleasant and the waterfall is at its full glory. The temperature during this time ranges from 10°C to 25°C, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The monsoon season, from June to September, is also a good time to visit the waterfall, as the rain enhances its beauty and volume, but you may face some difficulties in reaching the waterfall due to landslides and roadblocks.
The summer season, from April to May, is the least preferred time to visit the waterfall, as the weather is hot and humid, and the waterfall is less impressive. The timings and entry fee of Vantawng Falls are as follows:
Timings: The waterfall is open from 8 am to 5 pm every day, except on Sundays and public holidays.
Entry fee: The entry fee to the waterfall is Rs. 10 per person, and Rs. 20 per vehicle. You may also have to pay a nominal fee for parking and photography.
What to See and Do at Vantawng Falls
Vantawng Falls is a sight to behold, as it cascades down from a height of 229 meters, making it the 13th highest waterfall in India and the highest in Mizoram. The waterfall is named after Vantawnga, a legendary Mizo swimmer who was said to be so skilled that he could hover at the top of the waterfall.
Unfortunately, he met his end when he was hit by a log that came down with the water. The waterfall is also known as Vantawng Khawhthla, which means Vantawnga’s Leap. Here are some of the main attractions and activities to see and do at Vantawng Falls:
Enjoy the scenic view and take photos of the waterfall:
The waterfall is a stunning sight, especially during the sunrise and sunset, when the sun rays create a rainbow effect on the water. You can admire the waterfall from a distance, as there is no direct access to the base of the waterfall due to the steep and slippery terrain. However, you can get a closer view of the waterfall from a watchtower that is located about 500 meters from the waterfall. You can also take some amazing photos of the waterfall from various angles and perspectives, but make sure to carry a good camera and a tripod, as the waterfall is often shrouded by mist and fog.
Learn about the legend of Vantawnga, the excellent swimmer who died at the waterfall: The waterfall is not only a natural attraction, but also a cultural and historical one, as it is associated with the legend of Vantawnga, the Mizo hero who was renowned for his swimming skills. According to the legend, Vantawnga was so good at swimming that he could stay at the top of the waterfall without falling down. He used to entertain the people with his feats, and also teach them how to swim.
One day, he was performing his usual stunt at the waterfall, when a log came down with the water and hit him on the head, killing him instantly. The people were shocked and saddened by his death, and named the waterfall after him, as a tribute to his memory. You can learn more about the legend of Vantawnga from the local guides and villagers, who will also tell you some interesting stories and anecdotes about the waterfall and its surroundings.
Experience the local culture and cuisine of the Mizo people:
Vantawng Falls is not only a place to enjoy nature, but also a place to experience the rich and diverse culture and cuisine of the Mizo people, who are the indigenous inhabitants of Mizoram. The Mizo people are known for their hospitality, simplicity, and harmony, and they will welcome you with open arms and warm smiles. You can interact with them and learn about their traditions, customs, festivals, and lifestyle.
You can also taste their delicious and unique cuisine, which is mainly based on rice, meat, fish, bamboo shoots, and local herbs and spices. Some of the popular dishes that you can try are bai (a soup made with vegetables and pork), zawngtah (a dish made with smoked pork and mustard leaves), sawhchiar (a rice dish cooked with meat and spices), and chhangban (a fermented rice cake). You can also try their local drinks, such as zu (a rice beer) and zawlaidi (a grape wine).
Try some adventure sports and activities, such as trekking, camping & rafting:
If you are looking for some adrenaline rush and excitement, then you can also try some adventure sports and activities at Vantawng Falls, such as trekking, camping, rafting, etc. You can explore the forest and the hills around the waterfall, and discover some hidden gems, such as caves, streams, and wildlife. You can also camp near the waterfall, and enjoy the starry night and the soothing sound of the water.
You can also raft on the Tlawng river, which flows near the waterfall, and experience the thrill of the rapids and the waves. However, you should be careful and follow the safety instructions and guidelines, as these activities can be risky and challenging. You should also book in advance and hire a professional guide or instructor, who will provide you with the necessary equipment and training.
Where to Stay and Eat Near Vantawng Falls
If you want to spend more time at Vantawng Falls, then you can also stay and eat near the waterfall, as there are some accommodation and dining options available. Here are some of the best places to stay and eat near Vantawng Falls:
Where to stay:
There are not many hotels or resorts near the waterfall, but you can find some homestays and guest houses that offer comfortable and affordable accommodation. Some of the best places to stay near the waterfall are:
Thenzawl Tourist Lodge: This is a government-run lodge that is located in Thenzawl, about 5 km from the waterfall. The lodge offers spacious and clean rooms with basic amenities, such as TV, geyser, and attached bathroom. The lodge also has a restaurant, a garden, and a parking facility. The tariff of the lodge ranges from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1000 per night, depending on the type of room. You can book the lodge online or by phone.
Vantawng Homestay: This is a private homestay that is located near the waterfall, about 1 km away. The homestay offers cozy and rustic rooms with essential amenities, such as bed, fan, and shared bathroom. The homestay also has a kitchen, a dining area, and a terrace. The tariff of the homestay is Rs. 800 per night, including breakfast. You can book the homestay online or by phone.
Vantawng Campsite: This is a camping site that is located near the waterfall, about 2 km away. The campsite offers tents and cottages with basic amenities, such as bed, blanket, and lantern. The campsite also has a bonfire, a barbecue, and a music system. The tariff of the campsite ranges from Rs. 1000 to Rs. 1500 per night, depending on the type of accommodation. You can book the campsite online or by phone.
Where to eat:
There are not many restaurants or eateries near the waterfall, but you can find some local stalls and shops that offer delicious and authentic Mizo food. Some of the best places to eat near the waterfall are:
Vantawng Canteen: This is a small canteen that is located near the watchtower, about 500 meters from the waterfall. The canteen offers snacks and beverages, such as tea, coffee, biscuits, chips, and noodles. The canteen is open from 8 am to 5 pm every day, except on Sundays and public holidays. The price of the canteen is very reasonable, ranging from Rs. 10 to Rs. 50 per item.
Vantawng Restaurant: This is a family-run restaurant that is located in Thenzawl, about 5 km from the waterfall. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, such as rice, roti, dal, curry, chutney, salad, and dessert. The restaurant also specializes in Mizo cuisine, such as bai, zawngtah, sawhchiar, and chhangban. The restaurant is open from 10 am to 10 pm every day, except on Mondays. The price of the restaurant is moderate, ranging from Rs. 100 to Rs. 300 per person.
Vantawng Cafe: This is a cozy and charming cafe that is located in Thenzawl, about 5 km from the waterfall. The cafe offers a range of drinks and desserts, such as coffee, tea, juice, smoothie, cake, pastry, and ice cream. The cafe also offers some continental and Chinese dishes, such as pizza, pasta, burger, sandwich, noodles, and fried rice. The cafe is open from 11 am to 11 pm every day, except on Tuesdays. The price of the cafe is slightly expensive, ranging from Rs. 150 to Rs. 500 per person.
Vantawng Falls is a hidden gem that deserves to be explored and experienced by every traveler who visits Mizoram. The waterfall is a stunning and serene destination that will enchant you with its beauty, history, and culture. Whether you want to relax and enjoy the view, or indulge in some adventure and excitement, Vantawng Falls has something for everyone.
So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Vantawng Falls today, and discover the wonders of Mizoram’s highest waterfall.
And don’t forget to share your experience and feedback with us in the comments section below. Thank you for reading, and happy traveling!
