Phawngpui

Phawngpui rises to about 2,157 metres, the highest point in Mizoram, and it is called Blue Mountain for the haze that settles on it. The summit is not a peak but a broad grassy plateau scattered with orchids and rhododendron, and on the eastern side the ground ends in Thlazuang Khàm, a sheer cliff dropping several hundred metres with the Chhimtuipui river valley below and Myanmar beyond. The mountain is held sacred in Mizo tradition as a dwelling of spirits. Its national park protects hoolock gibbon, serow, goral and a good bird list including the Blyth's tragopan and hornbills.

What you actually see

• The plateau summit - grassland with orchids rather than a sharp peak.
• Thlazuang Khàm - a sheer cliff dropping to the river valley.
• The Myanmar view - hills across the border from the eastern edge.
• The wildlife - gibbon, serow, goral and hornbills in the park forest.

When to go

October to April for clear weather; the monsoon brings heavy rain and fog that hides everything. Orchids and rhododendron flower in spring. Nights on the mountain are cold.

Honest expectations

Permits are required and southern Mizoram is remote with long rough road journeys. Accommodation is a basic forest rest house. Fog frequently closes the cliff view. Guides are needed for the trails.

Nearby

Lawngtlai lies west; the Myanmar border is east.