Last Updated on September 9, 2023 by asoulwindow
Table of Contents
About Rih Dil Lake
Rih Dil, the heart shaped lake near Champhai in Mizoram is a must-visit place. Crossing the Indo-Burma or Indian Myanmar border to visit the beautiful heart shaped Rih Dil Lake was definitely the most fun and exciting part of my Champhai tour. Rih Dil isone of the most loved and revered lakes in both Myanmar as well as the neighbouring Mizoram. Before visiting, I searched about this lake online and was confused of its location because many blogs said that Rih Dil is the largest lake of Mizoram. I had assumed that Rih Dil is in Mizoram. However, I found out that it is far from the truth.
Located in Myanmar, about 3 kilometres from the picturesque Zokhawthar, the nearest village in India, Ril Dil is the best place to see near Champhai. Deeply rooted in the Mizo folklore, Rih Dil is equally important for Mizos living on either side of this lesser visited international border. You can find a shared cab to Zokhawthar from Champhai. Now you know why Rih Dil makes for such an amazing weekend destination from Champhai.
This is a complete travel guide to planning a trip to Rih Dil Lake on India-Myanmar Border. I am sharing a detailed travel guide to visit Rih Dil Lake based upon my own travel experience in this gorgeous natural wonder. You are reading the most comprehensive travel guide to Rih Dil lake. This information packed travelogue on Rih Dil is based on my own experiences and interactions.
My Experience of visiting Rih Dil Lake
Visiting Rih Dil Lake from Champhai was definitely one of the most exciting things I did during the 10 days long epic road trip across East Mizoram. I am a self-proclaimed border junkie, a major one! I also love exploring natural places more than the man-made engineering marvels. I love crossing international borders. So, I was delighted to combine my love for nature with my love for borders here.
I travelled in Mizoram with the erudite Mapui Khawlhring from Riahrun Tours, Priyanka Chandola, a talented travel YouTuber at Desi Girl Traveller and the energetic Sange Tsering from Holiday Scout. The fun-loving Tluanga PB drove us around! We were the only tourists in Rih Dil when we visited. So, despite its popularity on social media, I feel Rih Dil is still off the beaten track. Please see this amazing video on Rih Dil by Priyanka Chandola.
In this detailed blog, I am mentioning some of the very important things to know before visiting Rih Dil Lake.
Soul Window Thoughts
During my months long trips across all the states of North-East India, I got opportunities to explore a variety of places but none was as mysterious and enigmatic as the Rih Dil lake. Throughout my months long road trips across North East India, I experienced something different and unique daily. I have travelled in North East India so extensively and deeply that my friends call me a North East India expert these days.
Some of the other places I have visited in North East India are as below:
- Tripura Sundari Shaktipeeth, Kamalasagar Kali temple near India Bangladesh border, Udaipur, Unakoti and Agartala in Tripura
- Loktak Lake and Imphal in Manipur
- Longwa, Mon, Dzouko Valley and Kohima in Nagaland
- Dawki near India Bangladesh border, Shillong, Cherrapunji and Living root bridge in Meghalaya
- Aizawl, Reiek peak, Thenzawl, Hmuifang, Saitual and Champhai etc in Mizoram.
- Ziro Valley, Bomdila, Dirang, Tawang, Mechuka, Tirap and Longding in Arunachal Pradesh
- Majuli, Jorhat, Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, Bodoland, Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park in Assam.
Why is Rih Dil Lake famous?
Below are the main reasons why Rih Dil Lake is so famous globally:
- Stunning views
- Road trip on hills
- Vibrant local culture
- Heart shape of the lake
- Grand views of rice paddy fields
- Thrill of crossing international borders between India and Myanmar.
- Despite having no external inflow or outflow of water, the Rih Dil lake is constantly clear unlike the Dal-lake in Kashmir.
Nomenclature/Etymology of Rih Dil Lake
Many Hindi speaking North Indians like me may mistake Dil to be Heart. I thought that too earlier when a local Mizo corrected me. Dil means lake while Rih means Heart in the local language. Dil in the other lakes of Mizoram such as Palak Dil and Tam Dil also mean lake.
Rih Dil Lake was named after a girl named as Rihi. Below is the full story about her.
Legend of Rih Dil Lake: What is the story of Rih Dil?
What is the story of Rih Dil? There is a very interesting legend associated with Rih Dil lake which is situated in the Chin State of northwestern Myanmar. As per a local legend, a girl named Rihi once lived here. She had a nasty stepmother who would be very cruel to her. Unfortunately, one day, her father dragged younger sister of Rihi deep inside a jungle and killed her.
The innocent Rihi was heartbroken and inconsolable when she found the lifeless body of her sister. Seeing her plight, a good spirit which is known as Lasi to the Mizos, appeared before her while Rihi was still weeping in deep grief. Lasi instructed Rihi about a secret magical tree, the leaves of which has healing powers and can bring the dead back to life. This is how Rihi succeeded in reviving her beloved sister back to life.
It is said that the sister of Rihi was very thirsty and to quench her thirst, Rihi took the form of a small water pool using the same leaf of the mysterious magic tree. After few days, Rihi turned herself into a white Mithun and roamed around in search of a safe haven, away from her cruel parents. As she roamed around, her urine formed rih note on small lakes in the places she visited.
Even today, such lakes are located in various parts of Myanmar such as Vawmlu Range, Zur Forest near the village Natchhawng; a place above Bochung village; the area of Khawthlir village. She finally zeroed in on the Sanzawl village as her permanent address. It is located near the Run River.
However, she was warned of the negative consequences by the demon spirit of the river. The demon threatened to suck her dry if she dares to live in Sanzawl. This led Rihi to wander around even further. As per the local people, Rihi had also considered Champhai for her permanent settlement but abandoned the idea as she found it unsuitable.
Eventually, Rihi settled at the place where the Rih Dil lake exists at present. She took the form of a lake, which she cherished anyways and made Rih Dil her permanent address. Now you know where the word Rih in Rih Dil comes from. It is derived from the name of Rihi. This is why Rih Dil lake is called so.
Soul Window Connections
Visit to the offbeat Rih Dil Lake in Myanmar reminded me of my visit to another sacred lake in Tibet which is holy to Hindus, the much-revered Mansarovar lake, that is. Sitting at the foothills of the unclimbable Kailash Parbat, the mysterious Mansarovar sits in complete contrast with the adjacent Rakshas Tal. Even after traveling so much across the world, I am yet to see lakes more beautiful than the lakes of Ladakh and Tibet.
Local Beliefs around Rih Dil Lake: What is the history of Rih Lake?
Rih Dil is a holy lake which every soul has to pass through to reach ‘pialral’, as per the Mizo folktales. However, that lake is now in Myanmar because of the boundary that was created by the colonial power.
What is the history of Rih Lake? When the British left India, the Mizo land was divided into Myanmar side and India side. In fact, some of the Mizo land is now under the nearby Bangladesh.
Mapui, my tour guide and who herself is a Mizo told me,
“For the Chin people including Laimi, Zomi, and Mizo, Rih Dil is more than just a pretty lake. As per our ancestors, Rih Dil is a corridor to the heaven known as Pialral. The departed souls must pass through the sacred lake for a cleansing ritual before making the onward journey to Pialral. So important is Rih Dil to the Mizos that the mention of the lake is also often found in the art and literature of Mizoram.
What is the mystery of Rih Dil Lake?
There are many stories and folklores associated with the mysterious and supposedly demon-haunted Rih Dil Lake.
The Mizos firmly hold the belief thatPialral and Mitthi Khua are the two separate worlds where the souls traverse after someone passes away. As per the local folklore and strong beliefs of the local people, whether the Mizo residents of Mizoram or people of Myanmar, the enigmatic Rih Dil lake is the inevitable passage which the spirits of the dead cross when they are on their way to their future abode which is known as Mitthi Khua. This was confirmed by my local tourist guide Mapui Khawlhring while we were returning back to Champhai from Zokhawthar.
“As per other beliefs, Pialral is the final abode of the spirits.Pialralis reserved exclusively for those who win the title of Thangchuah through acts such as organising a big community feast etc. On the other hand, Mitthi Khua is the place where a majority of common men and women settle after passing away. In Mitthi Khua, the deceased play out their afterlife which is akin to their past life!” My local tour guide told me as I listened to her slack jawed. To simplify things, irrespective of where the souls depart to, they all have to pass through the pious Rih Dil lake.
Myths of Rih Dil Lake
Rih Dil Lake is not just a pretty lake. It was slightly drizzling when I reached Rih Dil Lake. A bunch of cotton clouds were hovering above the lake, as if guarding its secrets from me. No wonder, since times immemorial, several myths surrounding this mysterious lake have been passed on from one generation to another in both Myanmar and Mizoram in India. In fact, various Mizo writers and composers have also been inspired from the mystery of lake. This reflects in their literary work.
Soul Window Border fun!
Crossing Indo Myanmar border for a visit to Rih Dil Lake was like crossing the India-Nepal border from Sunauli near Gorakhpur in my home state Uttar Pradesh. I have also crossed Indo Nepal border from Dhangadhi near Dudhwa National Park and Kakrahwa Bazar which is situated in Siddharth Nagar to visit Lumbini, which is just 10 kilometres away. You can also cross Nepal from Kakarbhitta near West Bengal.
Where is Rih Dil Lake Located?
Where is Rih Dil? Here is all you wanted to know. “Rih Dil is the largest lake in Mizoram, but is situated in Myanmar,” that’s what most people told me. It left me confused until I visited the mysterious lake myself. Perhaps due to the immense cultural importance of Rih Dil, it is also often referred to as a lake in Mizoram but in reality, this lake is located in the Chin state of Myanmar or Burma. Arbitrary political boundaries may also be the other reason behind this ambiguity.
Rih Dil lake is located merely 2 miles away from the locally famous Tiau River which my tour guide told me is a boundary river which separates Myanmar from the small state of Mizoram in North East India. It is situated within the boundaries of the village area of Rihkhawdar in Myanmar. Rih Dil lake is located approximately 4 kilometres away from the border crossing between India and Myanmar. You can also walk on this route in good weather but it is surely going to take much longer than a quick bike ride. Located away from the crowds, Rih Dil is not to be missed.
How deep is Rih Dil Lake?
It is said that the north-west part of Rih Dil is less deep than the south-west part of the lake. You can find all the information on Rih Dil in this detailed travel guide. Such valuable information is not available in old school mainstream media or traditional guide books.
Area of Rih Dil Lake
How big is Rih Dil? Rih Dil Lake is a pretty large lake. From a higher vantage point, I could see how vast this lake was. Rih Dil Lake is around 1 mile long and half a mile wide. The total circumference of the holy lake is approximately three miles.
Places to see around Rih Dil Lake
There are so many exciting places to see in and around the Rih Dil Lake that even a day is not enough. All the information you need to plan a great trip to Rih Dil lake is right here. Below are some of the top things to do and places to see in and around Rih Dil lake:
Rikhawdar Village
While Zokhawthar is the border town in India, Rikhawdar Village in Myanmar is the immediate place I saw as I crossed the border. Rikhawdar Village is located in the Falam District of the Chin State in Myanmar. Since Rikhawdar is a busy trading town for both, the people of Myanmar and India, I saw several people nonchalantly crossing the border all day. They were either going for trade or returning home after doing their business. I took a free walking tour around the village.
Zokhawthar village
Zokhawthar is the name of village in Myanmar and India near Champhai. The culture, food, traditions of the people living on either side of the international border is the same. Pawih language is the most spoken on the Myanmar side but they have many other languages. However, the main language is Mizo in Zokhawthar village.
While Khawnuam is located on the Myanmar side, picture postcard perfect Zokhawthar village is located in Mizoram in India. These are different names but the place is one. This can be seen in similar cultures, dresses and practices. There are many more unusual places to visit around Rih Dil Lake. Ask a local and they shall guide you. Indians and foreigners with inner line permits can also stay in Zokhawthar village in simple Government run tourist lodges for a very low price.
Cross the Iron bridge between India and Myanmar
I enjoyed walking on the quirky iron bridge that connects India and Myanmar in this part of the world. Not only are the views from here amazing but I was also overwhelmed to see a flurry of activity happening right on the bridge.
“What is that man carrying?”, “Is she Burmese or Mizo.” “Aren’t both the same?” “Where is the police?”, many such questions crossed my excited mind as I stood on the bridge and observed the people and the scenery, washed fresh in the rains.
I stopped for a while and admired the beauty of the voluptuous Tiau River which separates Myanmar from India.
I didn’t see any police on the Customs check gate installed by Government of India, right before the ‘Thank you, Visit Again’ sign in tricolor on top of the entry gate of India
On closer look, I noticed the Border Security Force (BSF) jawans watching over us. Crossing the bridge, which is so much fun is also a free thing to do. There is no entry fee to cross the border.
Boating on Rih Dil Lake
You can also enjoy a boat rude in the Rih Dil Lake. Just ask a local. When I visited, I saw many locals enjoying boating in the beautiful heart shaped lake. On the same trip, I also visited Tam Dil Lake which is one of the best places to visit in Mizoram. In Tamdil also, boating facility is easily available.
Birdwatching around Rih Dil Lake
Many birds get attracted to Rih Dil Lake, thanks to a thin population and the fact that it is located far away from the crowds. Lack of pollution and abundance of water is another reason why so many birds flock here. In winters, many migratory birds also call Rih Dil home. This is why, the beautiful Rih Dil is also a paradise for serious birdwatchers and wildlife photographers as well. You can, therefore plan a trip to Rih Dil for the sole purpose of birdwatching. Thank me later.
What’s more? Since I travelled in peak monsoon season, I also noticed several small colorful bugs and butterflies. In my personal experience, monsoon is a great time to visit Rih Dil if you want to shoot macro life.
Apply Thanakha paste on your cheeks
I saw many people and shopkeepers with thanakha applied on their face as soon as I entered Myanmar for Rih Dil Lake. Not many people know that the Burmese people, especially the Burmese women have been applying thanakha since the mid-11th century. When I stopped at a ‘small haat’ between Aizawl and Kanhmun, I saw some Indian women wearing thanakha.
Being located so close to Myanmar, many women apply thanakha even on the India side. When I curiously saw a lady vegetable shopkeeper applying thanakha on her cheeks, she asked me to apply some from the small round box. She always kept thanakha with her at all times, she told me. I applied the same and it felt cooler. This is surely one of the most unusual things to do in and around Rih Dil.
That’s what the main aim of applying thanakha is! Made from the paste of a ground bark of Thanaka wood (Hesperethusa crenulata), thanakha acts like a natural sunscreenwhichkeeps the skin cooler and protected from direct sunrays. This is why the local women apply in on their face and sometimes even arms.
Soul Window Connections
In this part of South Asia, it is common to see local women wearing the tanakha paste on their cheeks. I saw several Indian and Burmese women wear thanakha as I traversed between Aizawl to Kanhmun via Mamit for my Tripura visit on the same trip.
Even earlier, during my visit to Tamu-Moreh, another Indo-Myanmar border, I saw many local women wear thanakha. Though, I didn’t see Burmese women wear thanakha in Longwa perhaps because the weather was very cool when I visited in peak winter season.
Secret Vantage Point to see the heart shape of Rih Dil Lake
Just as we were returning from spending quality time at the Rih Dil Lake, we were rewarded with a bonus. The bike riders who took us around, decided to throw a surprise. They manoeuvred their way through muddy dirt tracks, made slightly slushy due to rains. They showed us a secret hidden gem, located away from the crowds. It was a nice vantage point to see the bird’s eye view of the mysterious lake.
Which lake in India is shaped like a heart? This is also the place from where I was able to see the legendary heart shape of the Rih Dil lake. For those who don’t know, Rih Dil Lake is famous the world over for its heart-shape.
Our happiness knew no bounds as we pranced and preened away at this secluded spot. I was also rewarded with great panoramic views of the rain-washed paddy fields from this vantage point. We must have spent 30 minutes here.
Do not miss this hidden gem if you love going off the beaten track. The breathtaking views from here make it worth the effort! Don’t tell anyone, but this secret place is located right next to a local school. By the way, did you know that Chembra lake of Kerala in South India is also shaped like a heart?
Visit Rice paddy fields
Just as I was driven towards the Rih Dil Lake from the market on the Myanmar side, I noticed huge, visually stunning rice paddy fields. I made a mental note to stop here while returning back. After spending quality time at the lake, I requested the bike driver to stop here. He obliged and waited patiently as I made pictures, videos and soaked in the ambience. Little did I know that he would also stop at the above-mentioned vantage point which offered even better views of the rice paddy fields. Don’t believe me? I will let the pictures in this detailed comprehensive blog on Rih Dil do the talking.
Visit local markets around Rih Dil
I loved exploring the bustling bazaar on the Mynamar side. It is a very vibrant market with so much going on. I visited several alcohol shops, clothes stores and even grocery stores to see what’s new? I did see things which I had never seen before. The local grains and pulses, for example were very different from what is popular in India. People on the streets sold freshly roasted corn on the cobs and quick snacks. My friend Priyanka even bought a hat for herself from the market for a very low price. This is one of the best things to do with family and kids.
I walked aimlessly here for hours, anticipating to find something unfamiliar. At unexplored places like Rih Dil, I feel it is very easy to go off the beaten path.
Visit local Churches around Rih Dil
Much like most of the Mizoram, Christianity is pretty popular in this part of Myanmar as well. I saw several Churches as I walked around. It will be great if you can visit a local Church on a Sunday. This is when most people visit to attend the Sunday Mass. Most of the Churches here are located at walking distance from each other. These Churches are also located at walking distance from the main market. Do notice the unique architecture of these Burmese Churches when you are here.
Visit Buddhist Pagodas near Rih Dil Lake
As we all know Buddhism is the predominant religion across Myanmar. Around 88% of people of Myanmar are Buddhists as compared to Christians (6.2%), Muslims (4.3%), Animists (0.8%) and Hindus (0.5%). So, it was not a surprise for me to see several golden colored Buddhist Pagodas as I was driven from the market to the Rih Dil lake. These are some of the most unusual places to see around Rih Dil lake.
You may want to stop at these pagodas and soak in the ambiance (because why not?). However, be respectful to the monks and the shrine as these pagodas are highly spiritual places and not ‘tourist attractions.’ Do not run, dance, shout or making dancing reels here.
I saw many similar Buddhist pagodas when I crossed the Tamu-Moreh border between India and Myanmar from Manipur.
Enjoy a breezy bike ride to Rih Dil
I enjoyed the bike ride around Rih Dil Lake. However, I was not driving the same. Due to paucity of time and drizzling, I had rather hired a bike driven by a local man. You can easily find these bikes as soon as you cross the Iron bridge between India and Myanmar and enter the Myanmar side. Many bike drivers await the passengers and tourists here. Despite being off the beaten track, Rih Dil does attract the discerning travelers throughout the year.
If you wish to ride your own bike, then you may have to take permission so that you can take the bike from India to Myanmar. Alternatively, you can also rent a local bike and drive it. Just ask around. Since I traveled to Rih Dil in the peak of monsoon, I was greeted with breathtaking views of rain-washed green valleys and cloudy sky. It was a day to remember!
Top things to do in Rih Dil Lake
What is there to do in Rih Dil Lake? If you go off the touristy trail, you will discover so many exciting things to do in and around Rih Dil.
There are indeed so many fun filled activities you can do in Rih Dil lake with family, kids and friends. Some of the best things to do in Rih Dil Lake are as under:
- Biking
- Cycling
- Shopping
- Boat Ride
- Birdwatching
- Sample local food
- Visiting paddy fields
- Visiting local Churches
- Taking long leisurely walks
- Photography and Vlogging
- Buying local alcoholic drinks
- Visiting local Buddhist pagodas
Excursions from Rih Dil Lake
There is no way I was visiting Champhai and skipping Rih Dil Lake. The divine lake is located so close to Champhai that most tourists plan the Aizawl-Champhai-Rih Dil Lake circuit together. You can also include the below mentioned places of interest in your itinerary.
There are many interesting places around Rih Dil Lake which you can visit. Some of the best places to see near Rih Dil Lake are as below:
All the above-mentioned places of interest are located in East Mizoram.
Festival of Rih Dil Lake
Chapchar Kut festival is celebrated across Mizoram, mostly in the month of March. It is a spring festival which is celebrated by the Mizos with much fanfare and cultural activities. People make merry, cook, eat, socialise, dance and sing in open fields during this vibrant festival. This festival marks the completion of jhum cultivation which requires the local farmers to clear the jungle-clearing from any remnants of burning. Jhum cultivation is very popular in Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh etc.
The Mim Kut is a festival of the Zo People, of India and Burma. It is a good idea to visit Rih Dil lake in the months of August and September, as this is when the festival is usually celebrated. If you plan your Mizoram Road trip keeping in mind the vibrant festivals of Chapchar Kut and Mim Kut, thenyou are surely in for much more fun! Festivals anyways happen only once in a year, so do not miss this opportunity.
Soul Window Travel Tip
I have observed that unlike other states of North East India, most of the Mizos do not wear their traditional dresses on a regular basis. So, the festival becomes a good opportunity to meet the Mizos in their sartorial glory. It is also a great occasion to enjoy the traditional folk songs, dances of Mizos. You can also see their customs and rituals when you attend these festivals. Thank me later!
Vegan and Vegetarian Food in Rih Dil Lake
It was easy for me to stay vegetarian in this part of Myanmar. As it drizzled outside, I had amazing milk shake and fried rice at a local homely restaurant located near a pagoda. The best part is that it didn’t even cost much. The family prepares vegetarian and vegan version of dishes upon request, like they did for me.
This family run place falls as soon as you enter the Myanmar territory. Take the first right and take right again where the road ends and you will reach this restaurant.
Some street shops also sell bhelpuri like snack on the road. You may also want to buy vegan snow cookies and rice cakes from the grocery stores. Though Myanmar is a meat heavy nation, it is still possible to find vegetarian and vegan version of food. By the way, there is also a restaurant located right next to the lake.
Night Life in Rih Dil Lake
I didn’t stay for the night here, but I assume that there is not much of a nightlife here. It is more of a small, sleepy village which hardly gets any international tourists, which is sad. In fact, we were the only tourists, Indian or otherwise who were present throughout our visit here.
Is it safe to visit Rih Dil Lake?
This is a commonly asked question. Yes, Rih Dil Lake is very safe to visit. Despite being secluded, I found it very safe to travel to. I didn’t go solo here but I am sure it is equally safe when traveling solo as a male or female backpacker. The people here are very friendly and always wear a smile on their face, even if you do not buy anything from them.
Is Swimming safe in Rih Dil lake?
You have to take precaution while swimming here because it is known for abruptly deep water falling immediately after the water’s edge. Though I saw many local boys swimming but most of them stuck to only the edges of the lake. This is why, you must not get very close to the centre of the lake.
Souvenirs Shopping Guide to Rih Dil Lake
I had picked several food souvenirs from the shops from the villages around the Rih Dil Lake. You can also buy local alcohol, electronics, clothes etc from the busy markets that line almost all the main street here.
It is also common to see vendors who came here from as far as Yangon to sell clothes and other items. The distance between Rikhawdar and Yangon is 668 kilometres and it takes around 17 hours via Yangon – Naypyitaw – Mandalay Expressway or Yangon – Mandalay Expressway.
What currency is used in Rih Dil Lake?
Myanmar Kyat and Indian Rupees are accepted in and around Rih Dil Lake. Currency of Myanmar doesn’t have coins.
ATM in Rih Dil Lake
If you are arriving at Rih Dil Lake from Mizoram in India, then it is a good idea to carry INR. Most shops and locals easily accept INR here. There are many ATMs in Champhai and Aizawl from where you can withdraw money as per your needs. You won’t find many ATMs on the India side near Rih Dil Lake. Even if there is one, chances are that it is running out of cash or is dysfunctional.
Photography Tips for Rih Dil Lake
The more I moved around the lake, the more different angles I was rewarded with. The lake acquires different character when you see it from various angles. The secret Vantage Point I stated above helped me click the heart shape of the lake. My favorite moment was taking pictures of the boatmen languorously floating on the placid lake.
Languages spoken in Rih Dil Lake
Most of the people here speak and write good Mizo language, Burmese language. Some people may also know English or Hindi or both. Since we were traveling with local Mizo tour operator Mapui, she helped us communicate with the local people. You can also use Google translate, if you have the local SIM. Though it doesn’t make sense to buy a local SIM for few hours.
Toilet facility in Rih Dil Lake
Clean toilets can be found at the restaurants and hotels on the Myanmar side. I had used the toilet at the homely restaurant where I had my delicious lunch.
Entry fee for Rih Dil Lake
There is no entry fee in Rih Dil lake. It is a free place to visit. I had a free walking tour on the shores of Rih Dil lake for hours. What can be better than this? North East India and Myanmar are indeed a backpacker’s paradise!
Hire a local tourist guide at Rih Dil Lake
The local Mizo tour operator Mapui Khawlhring herself accompanied us and that made a huge difference to our immersive travel experience across Mizoram. Since, she is a Mizo, she never left a question I had about the Mizo way of life or even complicated topics such as spirituality and the eventful Mizo history. I firmly hold the belief that visiting a new place without a guide is akin to watch a movie in foreign language with no subtitles.
This is why traveling with a local guide helps you enjoy and understand things more. Not much of a documentation on Mizoram is available to people who live outside of this small state of India. Thus, it is wise to hire a local tour guide.
How To Book a trip to Rih Dil Lake
For a hassle-free trip, I would suggest that you book a memorable road trip across Mizoram with a local Mizo woman Mapui Khawlhring who runs the Riahrun Tours. You may contact her at +91 7005407425. Not only does Mapui arrange for well-maintained vehicles, but also food, accommodation etc as per your taste and budget. You can also customise your trip with her as per your whims and fancies.
Backpacking Budget Travel Tips for Rih Dil Lake
It is very easy to visit Rih Dil Lake on a backpacking budget. The costs here are very low whether it is accommodation, food or transport. Cost of shared cabs may be high sometimes but it is still under a backpacking budget. However, in case there is no return shared cab available for return, you may have to stay in the Zokhawthar village overnight and that may incur extra costs, which I feel is still enjoyable as I love to spend 1-2 days at border villages and towns for an immersive experience.
Solo Trip Tips for Rih Dil Lake
Yes, whether you are a male or a female, it is possible and safe to visit Rih Dil Lake solo. As a solo traveller, you can catch a shared cab from Champhai to Zokhawthar village and easily cross the international borders. Then you can walk or hire a bike to visit the lake. Thanks to the low costs and availability of public transport, things are easier for solo travellers here.
Luxury travel Tips for Rih Dil Lake
Champhai has some good hotels and facilities which a luxury traveller can avail. However, do not expect the luxury one gets in big cities. Since Champhai is a big city, you can also hire vehicles and travel in style in luxurious cars. You can book the same from Aizawl with good tour operators such as Mapui.
Soul Window Facts
Do you know that for a few hours, Indian citizens can similarly visit the village in Bangladesh from Tlabung in the unexplored Lunglei district of South Mizoram sans a visa or passport? And the journey is scenic. You need to hire a boat to be able to cross this border. What’s not to love?
Quick Itinerary for Rih Dil Lake
This is the itinerary I followed.
- Arrive in Champhai from Aizawl via road. Take rest
- Early morning leave for Rih Dil lake and come back to Champhai by night.
- Next day or next few days can be spent doing sightseeing of places in and around Champhai. You can read my complete guide to Champhai for detailed information on the same.
How to choose the right car for road trip?
For a memorable road trip, it is very important to choose your car carefully. Gone are the days when cars were just a means to reach a destination. Today’s new age travelers prefer to travel in luxury and style. One such brand which comes to my mind is Nexa.
What I like about Nexa cars is the fact that not only do they have sophisticated style and premium design but they also constantly upgrade through technological innovations. In my experience Jimny is suitable for rough terrains like Ladakh, Spiti and some parts of North East India where off-roading happens naturally.
On the other hand, Baleno, their premium hatchback, is ideal for large families or a group of friends traveling together. Their other cars such as IGNIS, Grand Vitara, Ciaz, XL6 and FRONX are also worth a test drive. Why don’t you visit one of the exclusive Nexa showrooms and do a test drive of these premium cars. You must also try out the virtual world through NEXAVerse.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Question on Rih Dil Lake
Below are the answers of some of the most important things to know before visiting Rih Dil lake.
How to cross the Indo-Burma or Indian Myanmar border to reach Rih Dil Lake?
During my road trips in the seven sister states of North East India, I had touched international borders several times. On several occasions, I had crossed the border and explored a tourist spot in another neighbouring country of India. Crossing Indo Myanmar border here was one of the most exciting experiences.
As an Indian citizen, I have crossed Indo-Myanmar border several times without any requirement of Visa and passport. The first time I made one such crossing was in Longwa near the homeland of headhunters of Mon (Indian side) in Nagaland. For a few kilometres, Indian citizens are allowed to visit the neighbouring Burmese village from Longwa without any documentation.
The second time, I crossed the Indio Myanmar order from the famous Tamu Moreh border near Loktak lake and Imphal in Manipur, also in North East India. Apart from these, I flirted with the Indo Myanmar border several times when I did a 10 days long trip to the offbeat Tirap and Longding in Arunachal Pradesh populated by Wancho and Nocte tribes.
Similarly, I officially crossed the border between Mizoram in India and Myanmar to reach Rih Dil lake. It was pretty simple. All I had to do was show up and just walk through the entry gate. No one asked for my Visa, passport or other documents such as Aadhar card. No one even stopped me or inquired anything.
Is visa and passport required for Indians to visit Rih Dil Lake in Myanmar?
No, Visa and passport is not required for Indians if a day trip to Rih Dil is all that they seek. You will however have to submit your identity proof such as below mentioned documents to the officials at the Burmese checkpost at the border.
What are roads conditions around Rih Dil Lake like?
The road condition from Aizwal or Champhai to Rih-Dil were excellent when I visited. I was impressed to see baby bottom smooth roads across Mizoram. Even the border roads had excellent road conditions. I also didn’t see any traffic jams here because the population of Mizoram is quite low when compared to the rest of India. To add, the roads here are very clean and bereft of any plastic trash.
Complete Route to reach Rih Dil Lake from Aizawl and Champhai
Most roads here are single lanes and are very popular with bikers from Mizoram and outside of it. Below are some main routes using which you can arrive at the Rih Dil Lake:
· Aizwal To Seling: 40 kms
· Selling to Keifang: 35 kms
· Keifang to Kawlkulh: 50 kms (takes 2 hours)
· Kawlkulh to Khawzawl: 30 kms
· Khawzawl to Champhai: 40 kms. You must note that after Khawzawl, the road gets narrower till the beautiful Chapmhai.
· Champhai to Zokhawthar: 25 Kilometres long broad road here was a pleasure to drive on. This patch makes for a breezy ride. You can also see amazing views of the Zokhawthar village from the mountain top as you approach it.
· Zokhawthar to Rih-Dil Lake: This is just a 4 Kilometres single lane road. Keep your eyes peeled for the busy bustling markets on the way.
These are some of the lesser-known facts.
Can I carry Indian cars to Rih Dil?
No, Indian cars are not allowed inside the territory of Myanmar even for a day trip from Mizoram. Mapui shared an interesting trivia with me, as I peeped out of my moving car in Indian territory, “Interestingly, all the vehicles in the Zokhawthar village have numberplates that start with ZKT, while it is MZ, elsewhere in Mizoram.”. Zokhawthar village on the Indian side is located just 2-3 kilometres away from the Indo-Myanmar border. Kawl valley is on the Burma or Myanmar side. Kawl means Burmese. I bet you didn’t know this interesting fact!
How to book a bike to see Rih Dil lake?
This is a commonly asked question. Whether you are foreigner or an Indian who is not a resident of Mizoram, you will require a permit to cross the international border and ride in Myanmar. Unlike India, left-hand side driving is followed in Myanmar. You must remember it if you plan to drive on the Myanmar side.
How to change currency: INR to Myanmar Kyat
Although INR is accepted in some shops of this part of Myanmar, it is still wise to convert INR to Myanmar Kyat. As soon as I arrived at the India side gate, just ahead of the bridge that connects the two nations, I was approached by two Burmese ladies who knew no English or Hindi. Mapui helped me understand the rates they offer.
It was one of the easiest, friendliest and quickest currency exchanges I had done. Laughs and selfies were an added bonus! Who says, we need words to communicate, eh!
I got many more Myanmar Kyat notes as their value is less than that of Indian currency. I kept some for my collections as I have been a major numismatic enthusiast since childhood. I was also surprised to know that Myanmar doesn’t have coins in its denominations which makes sense because their value is low.
How to get ILP for Rih Dil Lake
Foreign nationals and Indians from states other than Mizoram need to apply for an inner line permit to visit Mizoram. I was approached by a local officer as soon as I arrived at Lengpui Airport in Aizawl, Mizoram. He handed over the form to me, which I immediately fille, signed and submitted after paying a small fee. It was a very easy and simple process. Do carry a pen. In my case, no one asked me for passport size picture, but do carry, just in case they change their minds.
Can foreigners visit Mizoram? As a government rule, all foreign nationals who enter Mizoram should register themselves at the office of Superintendent of Police (CID/SB) Mizoram who is the designated Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) of Mizoram. This process needs to be completed within the first 24 hours of arrival of the foreign tourists.
Where to stay in Rih Dil Lake?
I had less time, so I didn’t stay in Zokhawthar. However, I suggest that if you have more time and budget, please stay at the Mizoram Government Tourist Lodge in Zokhawthar so that you can explore the border town deeper and feel the pulse of the place.
I had stayed in the comfortable Champhai Tourist Lodge and made a day trip to Rih Dil Lake. They have small single rooms, big rooms, rooms with balcony and even few lovely cottages with balconies looking over lush green jungles. The best part is that the cost of the rooms is very low here. It is located in a secluded place surrounded by dense canopy of trees. Located away from the traffic, this is indeed a haven in a big city.
Their restaurant serves basic Mizo vegetarian and vegan food such as daal, rice, bamboo shoot bai, alu bhujiya etc.
Address of Champhai Tourist Lodge: Zion Veng, Champhai, Mizoram 796321
What to wear in Rih Dil Lake?
Since I visited Rih Dil Lake during the rainy season, I wore simple Jeans and shirts. Shorts are also OK in summer and monsoon. You may want to carry raincoats and windcheaters when traveling to Rih Dil in monsoon. And of course, you need to pack woollen clothes accordingly when visiting Rih Dil Lake in winters.
What are the timings of Rih Dil Lake?
There is no fixed timing for Rih Dil Lake as it is open to all and not fenced. But it makes sense to visit Rih Dil Lake between sunrise and sundown. The best timing to visit Rih Dil Lake is between 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
What is the best time to visit Rih Dil Lake?
What is the best time to visit Rih Dil Lake? Which months are suitable for a trip to Rih Dil. These are some of the most frequently asked questions. Below is a detailed month-wise breakup.
Rih Dil Lake in monsoon/Rainy Season
Is monsoon a good time to visit Rih Dil Lake? Many people will recommend you to not travel to Rih Dil Lake in monsoon. However, I feel that it will be great injustice to consciously avoid Rih Dil Lake in rainy season. This is when the surroundings of the Rih Dil lake are the most beautiful and visually stunning! In my experience the weather and climate of Rih Dil in rainy season is pleasant. The temperature in Rih Dil was just perfect when we visited. It was neither too cold nor hot.
I visited Rih Dil Lake on the 20th July. It was the peak of monsoon and it started to drizzle a little as soon as we arrived at the border. But that didn’t deter us. There was no way I was going back without visiting the lake I had dreamt of visiting since such a long time.
It didn’t rain intensely when I took the bike ride to the lake. So, I was not wet at all. The little drizzle that we braved on the bike ride completely stopped when we reached the lake. Instead, thanks to the rainy season, I was greeted with a great weather, no crowds and visuals of lush green mountains. This is why I keep saying that you must also travel to new places during the rainy season.
Here is an overview. Not many say this (because they have not experienced it) but I feel that rainy season is the best time to visit Rih Dil lake. Not only are the rain-washed views of the verdant hills soothing to the eyes but the pleasant weather adds charm to the entire experience.
Rih Dil Lake in Summer season
Though it can get very hot and humid here on some days of summer, you can still visit Rih Dil Lake. It is not as cold during the early morning and evening even during the peak summer season. The afternoon can be spent visiting markets, pagodas, churches, doing shopping or restaurant hopping. The weather of Rih Dil in summer is moderate.
Rih Dil Lake in winter season
Winters are pleasant (at least for me!) in this part of Myanmar and Mizoram. I have visited various parts of North East India in all seasons. Having visited several states of North East India in peak winter, I can vouch for the fact that winter is one of the best times to visit Rih Dil Lake. You can even pay a visit to the lake even in the afternoon when you visit Rih Dil lake in the winter season. The average temperature in Rih Dil in winter is low.
What is the ideal duration of visit in Rih Dil Lake?
How many days to spend in Rih Dil Lake? It is a frequently asked questiion. If you are an Indian and visiting Rih Dil lake without Visa and passport then 1 day is sufficient here. I had made a day trip to Rih Dil lake from Champhai, the scenic rice bowl of Mizoram. Indians are allowed to cross Ind0-Myanmar international border and visit Rih Dil lake for a few hours without Visa and passport.
What can I do in 1 day in Rih Dil Lake? I had only one day in Rih Dil lake and I made the most of it. Within one day, I enjoyed exploring the local village of Myanmar, sampled local vegetarian/vegan food, went on a cool bike ride, explored the terraced paddy fields, spent 2-3 hours at the Rih Dil lake, enjoyed views from the secret vantage point, did shopping and mingled with the local people.
What can I do in 2 days in Rih Dil Lake? If you have an extra day, I would advise you to take it slow and let the place grow on you. Maybe try to visit the home of a local people and learn about their culture apart from doing the usual sightseeing as mentioned above.
What is the local transport for sightseeing in Rih Dil Lake?
It was slightly raining (rather drizzling) when we entered the territory of Myanmar. We wanted to hire a cab or auto, but it was nowhere to be seen. Then we noticed a large gathering of bike riders. They offered us bike ride to the Rih Dil lake for a small price. It was fun riding pillion on their quirky bikes on slushy dirt tracks alternating with smooth roads. Do not miss this fun way of engaging with the local people while also helping them earn more.
Though I didn’t see any taxi here when I arrived at the border town of Myanmar, I was told that on most days, taxis are also available. However, I feel that taxis won’t be as much fun as the bike rides.
How to reach Rih Dil Lake?
North East India is great for road trips. Someday I also want to ride on rode on the Lumding-Maibang Haflong Highway, one of the best in North East India. Road Trip across Mizoram in a private car was so much fun for me.
Since Rih Dil is an easy weekend escape from Champhai, many tourists visit here frequently. But how do I get to Rih Dil? It is fairly simple to reach Rih Dil Lake. Below are some of the best ways to reach Rih Dil:
Road trip in a private cab
As we wheeled away on the Zokhawthar Road, we passed through quaint little villages such as Khankawn, Zotlang, Ruantlang, Mualkawi, Melbuk & Zokhawthar. Zotlang and Ruantlang were particularly beautiful.
I had travelled to Rih Dil Lake from my hotel in Champhai on a privately hired cab. The good roads, nice weather and lack of traffic ensured that I had a memorable road trip to Rih Dil Lake. If you are in a group (or even solo and rich!), then it makes sense to hire a luxurious Sedan than be packed like sardines in a shared cab. Another benefit of exploring this side of Mizoram on a private car is that I was able to stop at beautiful places en route on my whims and fancies.
It must be noted here that since Indian cars are not allowed to cross the international border between Myanmar and India, therefore we entered the Burmese territory on foot. Since we had a car, we left it at a parking lot, in the Zokawthar village and hired a bike from across the border.
Bike taxis
If you are a biking enthusiast, then you will enjoy driving bikes on the smooth roads of Mizoram surrounded by unbelievably green mountains. The fresh air, lack of noise and almost zero traffic make it pleasurable to drive on the roads of Mizoram. I know many bike riders who have reached these parts of North East India on epic bike journeys. In fact, along with Ladakh and Spiti, bike journeys across Mizoram and other parts of North East India are also very popular. I was amused to see that many local Mizo boys were also riding for pleasure. “They do it every Sunday here.”, Mapui told me.
These bike taxis are priced very low and are good value for money. It was fun navigating through the rain-washed winding path on lush green hilly roads that lead to Rih Dil lake. The drivers patiently waited for us as we goofed around the lake and even took us to several hidden spots. They also readily stopped at places en route which I wanted to explore.
Rail
There is no railway station in Rih Dil, or Champhai. The nearest big railway station is located at 130 kms away at Silchar in neighbouring Assam. Bairabi railway station is located in the Bairabi city in Kolasib district of Mizoram. Its code is BHRB. Plans to build the first railway station at Aizawl is underway. I saw its construction work going on in full swing as I later rode the cab between Aizawl to Kanhmunh via Mamit.
Fly
I reached Aizawl via the regular direct flight that runs between New Delhi and Lengpui Airport (IATA: AJL, ICAO: VELP) in Aizawl. Once I got down at the airport, it further took me another hour on smooth, traffic free roads to reach my homestay in the centre of the Aizawl city. For some reason, the Lengpui Airport located is one hour away from the main city despite being the only airport near Aizawl. Lengpui Airport is located at Lengpui in the Mamit district of Mizoram.
Distances from Rih Dil Lake
The holy Rih Dil Lake makes for a great weekend break from Champhai. Rih Dil Lake is located only 27 kilometres or 16 miles away from Champhai in Mizoram. It is only 63 miles away from Falam, a town in Myanmar.
The distance between Yangon and Rikhawdar, both in Myanmar, is approximately 668 kilometres. Tourists may take approximately 17 hours via Yangon – Mandalay Expressway or Yangon – Naypyitaw – Mandalay Expressway.
Conclusion: Is Rih Dil Lake worth visiting?
Why visit Rih Dil Lake? It is a frequently asked question. Here are my final thoughts. Rih Dil Lake is a very important spiritual destination for both the people of Myanmar as well as Mizoram in North Eastern part of India. The views of green paddy fields are cherry on the cake. A fun weekend getaway from Champhai and Aizawl, both in Mizoram in North East India, Rih Dil is a must visit place in Myanmar.
I understood how important Rih Dil is to the Mizo people when I dug deeper in the culture, lifestyle, tradition, rituals and the folklore of the Mizo people. In a nutshell, Rih Dil is as much of an important lake to the Mizos as it is to the people of Myanmar.
The view from my Soul Window is spiritual!
Pin this blog to save the blog and plan a trip later!
Related Blogs
Biggest travel guide to Champhai
Top Travel Blogger from India