Landslide

 Aizawl is steep almost everywhere. Almost all the buildings are on the slope and have small space at the bottom and much larger higher up, and are built using a reinforced concrete frame. The main problem is that no matter how this frame is attached to bedrock (and it often isn't, apparently) once the surface slides it'll take everything in its path. Landslides are frequent from (mostly) tremors and water flow in the monsoon season. The photos show one scar from last year - buildings were swept away, roads carved out and communication lines severed. Within a year or so it'll be rebuilt.

Mizoram has a sericulture department devoted to the development of silk farming, weaving, manufacture and selling. We decided to walk the couple of miles to the showroom for a peek. 

It was a very pleasant walk, but the showroom disappointed. I was hoping to buy some fairly plain fabric to make a shirt from, but apart from numerous silk pwans (traditional wrap-around skirts still worn by most women most of the time) and scarves fabric was scarce. 

Steps up to the entrance of our hotel - climb again once inside to our room. 

With the heat of the day peaking we taxied back and lunched at the Chocolate Room opposite. 

Afternoon was pottering, napping, planning for travels. It's becoming rather irritating that so many payments are online through various Indian apps - and without an Indian bank account are impossible to access. Even trying to book an Airbnb place can't be done from here, despite having a UK registration. Trying to book directly, people expect deposit being paid through one of the apps. But with an exchange of WhatsApp messages we're booked into a room in Guwahati in a week or so. 

Evening meal with Lalchungnunga and Hliri was again far less simple than requested - and delicious! 

We're now packing for departure to Siaha tomorrow - by helicopter!