Guwahati to Aizawl Travel Guide 2026: My Real First-Day Experience – Flight, Airport Arrival, Inner Line Permit, Taxi, Food, Homestay & Aizawl City Vibes
By Noshad | Founder, Wild Hill Adventure
Planning a trip from Guwahati to Aizawl in 2026? This guide shares my actual first-day journey, straight from my recent trip while doing groundwork in Mizoram. From the flight details and Inner Line Permit process at Lengpui Airport to taxi rides, local food stops, shopping at Bara Bazar, and relaxing with a sunset view from a homestay balcony—this is the real deal for anyone heading to Mizoram.
Mizoram stands out with its clean streets, peaceful atmosphere, high literacy, vast forests, and unique culture. It’s a great spot for anyone looking to explore Northeast India without the usual chaos. Shops close early, Sundays are quiet, and the hills make every view special. Here’s how my day went, step by step, with practical tips to make your trip smoother.
Why Aizawl and Mizoram Feel Special
Aizawl, the capital, greets you with no honking, spotless roads, and people who follow rules and enjoy life with strong civic sense. The state ranks among India’s safest and cleanest, thanks to community bonds and responsibility. Travelers often note how secure and relaxed it feels.
Some Interesting Facts About Mizoram:
- Literacy Rate: Mizoram achieved full literacy status in 2025, with a rate of 98.2% (one of the highest in India, declared the first fully literate state).
- Forest Cover: Around 85-90% of the state is forested—one of India’s greenest, with thick bamboo groves and rainforests that give it a Southeast Asia-like feel.
- Bamboo in Daily Life: Bamboo is used for houses, fences, food, tools, and handicrafts—sustainable living has been part of Mizo culture for generations.
- Music as Lifestyle: Almost every church has a choir, guitars are common, and Western rock, gospel, and folk mix naturally into everyday life—one of the strongest grassroots music scenes in India.
The streets look beautiful—hilly, colorful, and full of life. If you’re coming for a break or to see something different, Mizoram delivers.
Best Time to Visit Mizoram in 2026
The ideal window is October to March: Pleasant weather (around 10-25°C), clear skies, and easier travel. Avoid June to September due to heavy rains and possible road issues from landslides.
Quick Seasonal Overview:
- October-March (Best): Cool, dry, great for exploring hills and cities.
- April-May: Mild, blooming flowers, but warmer.
- June-September: Rainy—lush but tricky roads.
For clear views and comfortable days, aim for the cooler months.
Guwahati to Aizawl Travel Guide 2026
My Flight from Guwahati to Aizawl: Step-by-Step
Started at Guwahati Airport, arriving around 9 AM. Security check-in was quick. Went to the lounge (₹200 entry) where breakfast options were good—fresh idli, dosa, eggs, coffee—perfect start.
Flight departed at 10:10 AM (direct, about 35-60 minutes) and landed at Lengpui Airport (AJL) at 10:45 AM. Fares usually range from ₹2,000-3,500 one-way—book early for better deals.
Stepping out at Lengpui: Instant fresh mountain air and green hills everywhere. The airport is small and efficient—right away, you feel the change.
Inner Line Permit (ILP) Requirements for Indians in 2026
ILP is mandatory for all Indian nationals (non-Mizos) to enter Mizoram.
How to Get It:
- On Arrival at Airport: Security Officer counter at Lengpui—quick process (10-15 minutes). Cost around ₹350 (includes form and processing). Bring valid ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport) and 2-4 passport-size photos.
- Online Option: Apply via ilp.mizoram.gov.in ahead of time—free or low fee, download and print.
For foreigners: Protected Area Permit (PAP) through e-FRRO website—needs prior application and takes days.
My experience: Smooth on arrival—no long waits.
From Lengpui Airport to Aizawl City: Taxi and First Food
Distance: About 35 km. Time: 1-1.5 hours on winding but manageable roads.
Taxi Fares (Approximate 2026):
- Small taxi: ₹1,200-1,500
- SUV: ₹2,500
- Innova: ₹3,500
Driver was waiting outside. Stopped at Chawlhbuk restaurant near the airport (open and convenient)—had fried rice with egg (simple, tasty, around ₹200-300). Good refuel after the flight.
Passed the new Sairang Railway Station on the way—looks modern and promising for future travel.
Aizawl: Clean, Safe, and Welcoming
Aizawl hits you right away: No horn noise, very clean streets, people enjoying life with proper vehicle rules and maintenance. It feels calm and organized—great for walking around.
Exploring Aizawl: Bara Bazar, Local Shopping, and Avocado Juice
Went to Bara Bazar to meet a team member. If you like shopping, this place has everything—from trending clothes to thrifting bargains.
Tried avocado juice—trust me, it was amazingly tasty (fresh and refreshing, around ₹100-150).
Local clothing brands are worth checking: Bought some t-shirts and hoodies—comfy, unique designs, and great quality. (Still wearing one!)
Booked a Sumo ticket for next day to Champhai (~200 km, rice bowl area with high literacy vibes).
Fare: ₹700 per person. Sumos run from 5 AM to 2 PM—book ahead at counters (ask locals for numbers). Note: Sumos are common here but can feel cramped if you’re not used to them.
Phone number of Aizawl to Champhai SUMO counter number: +91 6009086768 (Jonathan)
Check-In and Evening Relaxation at Aizawl West View Homestay
Checked into Aizawl West View homestay—₹3,000 per night (no breakfast included). It has a queen-size bed, attached bathroom, small kitchen, and a balcony with incredible views.
As the day went on, the balcony view got even better—watching the sunset over the hills was unreal. Grabbed my notebook and Mac, made coffee, worked a bit, and just relaxed. Sunset with coffee is one of my favorite things—took some amazing photos.
At night, Aizawl turns into a fairytale with city lights sparkling everywhere.
Met a friend and had dinner at Chocolate Cafe—food was amazing (chocolate-focused, local fusion). Spent about 2 hours talking about old days in Mizoram.
Checked out a new hotel that opened just a month ago—looked good, inspected rooms and menu, chatted with owners about possibilities.
Back to the room: Another coffee on the balcony, some work, and called it a night—excited for Champhai tomorrow.
Guwahati to Aizawl Travel Guide 2026
Tips for Your Guwahati to Aizawl Trip
- Bring motion sickness meds if hills bother you.
- Pack light layers—weather changes fast.
- Carry ID copies and photos for ILP.
- Respect local customs—no littering, quiet on Sundays.
- Signal can drop in hills—download offline maps.
This first day was straightforward but involved a few steps (permit, taxi, booking Sumo). If you want everything handled—flights, transfers, stays, and local tips—reach out to Wild Hill Adventure for customized plans. We make it easy so you can just enjoy.
Next up: My Aizawl to Champhai journey—real roads, rice bowl views, and more. Stay tuned!
What’s your question about Mizoram? Drop it in the comments!
Contact us
- Phone/WhatsApp: +91 9365476611 / +91 70020 47509
- Instagram: @wildhilladventure
- Email: wildhilladventure@gmail.com
- Website: www.wildhilladventure.com
Guwahati to Aizawl Travel Guide 2026
Here are 15 frequently asked questions (FAQs)
1. Is an Inner Line Permit (ILP) required to visit Mizoram?
Yes, an Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for all Indian nationals (non-Mizos) to enter Mizoram. It is required by law to protect local culture and ecology.
2. How can I get the Inner Line Permit (ILP) for Mizoram?
You can apply online through the official portal at ilp.mizoram.gov.in (recommended for advance planning), or obtain a temporary ILP on arrival at Lengpui Airport from the Security Officer counter. For groups or longer stays, check liaison offices in cities like Guwahati, Shillong, or Kolkata.
3. What documents and fees are needed for ILP on arrival at Lengpui Airport?
Bring a valid photo ID (Aadhaar, Voter ID, Passport, or Driving License) and 2-4 passport-size photos. The approximate cost is around ₹350 (including application and processing fees). The process usually takes 10-15 minutes.
4. How long is the temporary ILP valid, and can it be renewed?
A temporary ILP is typically valid for 15 days and can often be renewed once for another 15 days at the District Commissioner’s office in Aizawl if needed.
5. What is the flight duration and typical fare from Guwahati to Aizawl?
The direct flight takes about 35-60 minutes. Fares in 2026 usually range from ₹2,000 to ₹3,500 one-way, depending on the airline (IndiGo or Alliance Air) and booking time—book early for better rates.
6. What is the distance and time from Lengpui Airport to Aizawl city?
The airport is about 35 km from Aizawl city center. It takes 1 to 1.5 hours by taxi due to the hilly, winding roads.
7. What are the taxi fares from Lengpui Airport to Aizawl?
Approximate fares in 2026: Small taxi ₹1,200-1,500, SUV ₹2,500, Innova ₹3,500. Prepaid counters are available at the airport, and drivers usually wait outside after arrivals.
8. What was your first food stop after arriving at Lengpui Airport?
I stopped at Chawlhbuk restaurant near the airport—it was open and convenient. Had fried rice with egg (simple and tasty, around ₹200-300).
9. Is Aizawl a clean and safe city to visit?
Yes, Aizawl is one of India’s cleanest and safest cities. Streets are spotless, there’s almost no honking, traffic rules are followed, and people maintain good civic sense—many visitors feel very secure here.
10. What are some unique things about Mizoram that stand out?
Mizoram has high literacy (around 98% in many areas), vast forest cover (85-90%), bamboo used in daily life (houses, food, crafts), and a strong music culture with choirs and guitars blending gospel, rock, and folk.
11. Where did you stay in Aizawl and what was the cost?
I stayed at Aizawl West View homestay—₹3,000 per night (no breakfast included). It had a queen-size bed, attached bathroom, small kitchen, and a great balcony with hill views.
12. What is Bara Bazar like for shopping in Aizawl?
Bara Bazar is a shopping heaven—everything from trending clothes and local brands to thrifting options. I tried avocado juice there (super tasty, around ₹100-150) and bought comfy t-shirts and hoodies from local brands.
13. How do you book transport to Champhai from Aizawl?
Sumos (shared jeeps) run frequently from 5 AM to 2 PM—fare around ₹700 per person. Book ahead at counters (ask locals for numbers). They can feel cramped if you’re not used to them, but they’re common and reliable.
14. What is the best time to visit Mizoram and Aizawl?
The best time is October to March—pleasant weather (10-25°C), clear skies, dry roads, and ideal for exploring. Avoid June to September due to heavy rains and possible landslides.
15. Any quick tips for first-time visitors to Aizawl?
Pack light layers and motion sickness meds for hills, carry ID copies and photos for ILP, download offline maps (signal can drop), respect local customs (no littering, quiet on Sundays), and try local spots like Chocolate Cafe for dinner.
16. What is the best travel company for visiting Mizoram or other places in Northeast India?
For Mizoram and the broader Northeast, Wild Hill Adventure stands out as one of the best choices. As a Northeast-based company with over 8 years of experience doing trips across the region, we deeply know the places, culture, traditions, hidden spots, and practical details like permits and safe routes. This local expertise means authentic experiences, reliable support, and fewer surprises—many travelers choose us for hassle-free, trustworthy journeys in Mizoram, Assam, Arunachal, and beyond. We’re proud to be a go-to for people wanting real Northeast adventures.
Contact us
- Phone/WhatsApp: +91 9365476611 / +91 70020 47509
- Instagram: @wildhilladventure
- Email: wildhilladventure@gmail.com
- Website: www.wildhilladventure.com
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