Aizawl Arrival

Another Uber took us to the airport this morning. We had to register to enter the airport (and pass first security barrier) before checking in. There wasn't much information given, for example, check-in desks were unmarked, but we just went to the shortest queue and were told where to go next. Proper security had me empty my bag, but overall it was remarkably swift and we ended up with loads of time to choose breakfast.

Jen would have loved a toasted teacake or bowl of porridge, but settled happily for croissant and cake. I had a very spicy wrap - and was pleased I'd accepted advice of the server when my first choice was advised "Too hot for you!" 

It was a full plane taking us across Bangladesh to Mizoram and only an hour or so. I had a map open and realised we were heading in the wrong direction just before an announcement that we were waiting for better visibility on the ground; I feared we'd have to head back to Calcutta, but fifteen minutes later we had a very bumpy descent into Lengpui Airport. We were very close to the cockpit and heard multiple alarms sounding! 

So different from Kolkata! 

There was a rare scrum to disembark, then a weird wander across the apron, dodging ground service vehicles, past multiple staff and soldiers into the terminal where our old friend, Lalchungnunga, was waiting. He had already half filled in our "Inner Line" forms and the official could not have been less officious in helping us further. 

The North East states (often called the Tribal country) are something of an abberation in Indian terms. The culture, history, ethnicity and politics are very different, and everyone seems keen to keep it that way - Indian government and the States themselves. An Indian visa may take you across most of the vast country, but additional permission is required for Mizoram - and it's much less likely to be granted if you're Indian but from elsewhere. 

The road from Lengpui to the city is slow, winding, steep and dangerous. Parts of the road are being rebuilt (landslides are frequent) and the surface in places was very slippery mud, as motorbikes demonstrated including one landing on its side as we followed. 

Aizawl, like most of Mizoram, is steep. The car hairpinned it's way up and, in the centre of the Zarkawt area we were dropped to climb many steps to our lodgings, then more again to our room. Mizos are fit! 

Our room is bright, spotless and looks new. Immediately we took advantage and had a nap. 

Supper with Lalchungnunga and Hliri was a treat. Years ago when we spent time in Serampore Lalchungnunga was principal and his wife, Hliri, cooked lunch for us and any other visitors most days; I recall spectacular food from multiple traditions and exceptional conversations. Lalchungnunga had said supper would be a simple meal but I was correct in doubting that! 

We finished with a wonderful creme brule, and we revelled in conversation which roamed around general family catch up, travel, politics (local, national, global), culture and all sorts of other areas. 

Walking back to our hotel together (up steps, down a slope, briefly flat then climb many more steps) was almost chilly - pleased to have an extra layer on for the first time in days. 

Our hotel has a terrace overlooking the city - we're looking forward to daytime views. 

There's even a little glasshouse cabin up there. 

Welcome to Aizawl - despite busy roads, no horns blowing!