The Palak Lake, or the Palak Di, is Mizoram’s largest lake and is simultaneously an ecological megaspot. The biodiversity in the region, with a variety of birds and different types of fish, attracts nature enthusiasts here. In fact, many people visit this place in the name of tourism and are left mesmerised by the breathtaking beauty of the oval lake surrounded by lush landscapes on each side. In addition, the people can also picnic around here to spend quality time with their fellow travellers or explore the nearby areas of the Saiha district to learn more about their culture. Keep reading our blog to know more about the lake and the fascinating activities people can engage in around this place.
About Palak Lake
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The Palak Lake is the largest in Mizoram. Its natural magnificence lures tourists, and its hydrological importance attracts more nature enthusiasts. The lake is also called the Pala Dil or Pala Tipo, which basically means the ‘swallowing lake’.
This lake is located near the Phura village in the south of Mizoram. The entire area is demarcated as an Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot. The lake and the surrounding areas have very rich flora and fauna. Further, the Palak Lake is an important part of the Palak Wildlife Sanctuary.
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History Of Palak Lake
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The Palak Lake’s origin is recorded in oral history, and archaeological evidence is held in the past. According to archaeological evidence, the lake is supposed to have originated around 800 to 1200 CE, when Burma had the westward migration of the Mara people.
However, not much is known about the region with concrete historical and archaeological evidence because of its remote location. More folktales have narrated its mysterious origin than there are historical records of its initial flow.
Hydrology Of Palak Lake
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The Palak Dil, also known as the Palak Lake, is the largest lake in Mizoram and is known for its rich biodiversity. The lake is about 700 metres wide, 870 metres long, and about 17 to 25 metres deep. It primarily sources its water from two streams emerging from a nearby mountain.
In fact, the lake drains through Pala Lui, another small stream. This drainage area has made the nearby lands fertile and ready for agricultural activities. The lake also houses various types of fish and birds.
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Flora And Fauna Around Palak Lake
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Palak Lake has numerous birds, many of them migratory, while others live as resident birds. Moreover, as for the aquatic creatures, there are vibrant and rare fishes in the lake. In addition, prawns, crabs, turtles, and snails can be found here.
Some unique species that fly around this area include the Nepal Fulvetta, the black-capped kingfisher, the hooded pitta, the little spider hunter, and many others. Aquatic birds like ducks are also exclusively found at the Palak Dil.
Top Places To Visit Nearby Palak Lake
Palak Lake is located in a comparatively more remote location than most of the other famous tourist destinations in Mizoram. Hence, here is a list of the top places near Palak Lake that people can travel:
1. Palak Wildlife Sanctuary
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The Palak Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most famous tourist destinations south of Mizoram. It is situated around Palak Lake and offers a rich experience of discovering rare flora and fauna. In addition, the sanctuary protects many animals, such as the leopard and the rhesus macaque, which are unique to witness. Further, people visiting the Palak lak can look around the sanctuary and enjoy an extra dose of natural allure with the meadowy spread of herbs, grass, and beautiful animals. In fact, this remains one of the most popular tourist destinations near the lake.
Location: 6W25+725, Tongkolong Road, Mizoram 796911
Travel Time: 29 minutes
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2. Saiha
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The Saiha District in southern Mizoram is beautiful with its rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscape. Many tourists come here to look around the mesmerising landscape and enjoy activities like hiking nearby. In addition, people can also enjoy fishing here. The Saiha settlement near Palak Lake offers a rich cultural experience to those seeking local influence. People can also speak to locals to learn about the native Mara culture.
Location: Saiha, Mizoram 796901
Travel Time: 2 Hour 51 minutes
3. Lunglei
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Located a bit farther away from Palak Lake than the other destinations, this town is the second-largest in Mizoram and has rich cultural and commercial hubs. The palace is in the middle of hilly terrain, with valleys running on each side. This allows tourists to take part in trekking and hiking as well. Moreover, the town offers a rich cultural diversity to tourists, letting them explore the unique blend of various native and immigrant cultures that have blended here over time. In short, this is the perfect place to start exploring native cultures.
Location: Lunglei, Mizoram
Travel Time: 5 Hours
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4. Blue Mountain
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Blue Mountain, also known as the Phawngpui Peak in Mizoram, is the highest peak in the state. It is absolutely worthy of a visit, regardless of the distance. The mountain gets its name because of the mist-covered layer that makes it appear blue from a distance. Moreover, the place is rich in biodiversity, much like the area near Palai Lake. In fact, people come here to see its orchids and rhododendrons. Many different bird species also reside here, which makes it an ideal spot for bird-watchers.
Location: Blue Mountain, Mizoram 796810
Travel Time: 4 Hours 21 minutes
Best Time To Visit The Palak Lake
The ideal time to visit Palak Lake or Palak Dil is between the winter months of September and March. This is a convenient time to explore the nature-clad arena thanks to the pleasant climate and subtle cold. Animals and birds are also easy to spot during this time. Thus, this serves as the peak tourism period in Mizoram.
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How To Reach The Palak Lake?
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Here are a few ways to reach the Palak Lake:
By Air
The nearest airport to the Palak Lake region is the Shillong airport in Meghalaya, about 380 to 400 kilometres away. People can get off there and catch a public vehicle to reach the lake.
By Rail
Silchar Railway Station is the nearest railhead to the Palak Lake. Thus, people can take a ride from the station after getting off and reach the lake.
By Road
Many public vehicles run along the way to Palak Lake in Mizoram. Hence, people can get on any bus or taxi or even book a private cab to reach their destination.
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Palak Lake is a rich biodiversity-supporting site with gorgeous views to enjoy and ample activities to carry out. From being a bird-watchers paradise to letting people picnic around the lush green region, the lake is a must-visit for anyone. In fact, a lot of people come here as nature enthusiasts but go back to being more tourists. So, if you want to dive into the rich realm of the Palak Dil and lose yourself in its breathtaking beauty, book a trip to North-East now! Bring your family and friends and take amazing photos of this place, picnic around, and even set up camps in the nearby region for more fun.
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Cover Image Credit: Rohit Naniwadekar for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Palak Lake
Where is Palak Lake located?
Palak Lake is located in the southern district of Saiha in Mizoram. This place offers rich biodiversity and a lush landscape to enjoy.
Which is the largest lake in Mizoram?
The Palak Lake, or Palak Dil, is the largest lake in Mizoram. It is situated in the southern district and offers a grand biodiversity to witness.
How deep is Palak Dil?
The Palak Dil is an oval-shaped lake in the south of Mizoram. Its depth is 17 to 25 metres, and it is about 700 metres wide and 870 metres long.
Where is Palak Dil located?
Palak Dil is located in Mizoram, nestled in a southern district called Saiha. While the place is remote, many people still visit it for a glimpse of the glistening lake.
What is the history of Palak Lake?
Palak Lake is said to have originated around 800 to 1200 CE, getting its water supply from the nearby streams. However, many folktales mention how a mystical giant snake cursed the place to be submerged underwater.
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