AIZAWL, October 1, 2026: Mizoram’s Anthurium Festival returned after a three-year hiatus, opening a three-day celebration at Ailawng and Reiek that brings together horticulture, adventure, indigenous culture, food and music as part of a broader tourism experience.
Presented by Mizoram Tourism in association with the Department of Horticulture, Government of Mizoram, the festival, being held from October 1 to 3, is designed to take visitors beyond flower displays and into the State’s mountain landscapes, villages and cultural traditions.
Tourism Minister Pu Lalnghinglova Hmar said the festival reflects Mizoram’s approach to tourism development, with communities and local enterprises playing a central role.
“Tourism must create value not only for destinations, but for the people who make those destinations special,” Hmar said.
He said the festival brings together horticulture, landscapes, culture and communities while creating opportunities for local transport operators, food businesses, growers, artisans, homestays and other tourism-linked enterprises.
Horticulture Minister Pu C. Lalsawivunga, who attended the event as Chief Guest, highlighted the festival’s connection between tourism and the State’s floriculture sector.
The Anthurium Festival traces its identity to the growth of anthurium cultivation among local communities, including the women-led movement associated with the Zo Anthurium Growers Society. The festival seeks to connect that horticultural story with tourism through flower gardens, nursery visits and encounters with local growers.
Adventure activities form another key component, with visitors able to explore Ngai Tlang, Ailawng Tlang and Reiek Tlang, including the Reiek Tlang Sunrise Trek. Cave exploration opportunities include Khuangchera Puk, Thawngpawnga Puk and Ngaitei Puk.
The programme also features Reiek Heritage Village and local village visits, traditional Mizo games such as Insuknawr, Inbuan, Kalchhet and Insaihruipawh, alongside folk performances, traditional music, fashion, local cuisine, handloom and handicraft exhibitions.
Leikapui Night on October 2 will feature Mizo artistes, followed by a grand closing concert on October 3.
The festival has also been prepared with participation from the Young Mizo Association, community leaders, the Zo Anthurium Grower Society and the Mizo Indigenous Games organising team, underscoring its community-led character.
