Pala Tipo Lake: Jewel of Southern Mizoram

Nestled in the serene hills of southern Mizoram, Pala Tipo also called Palak Dil is the largest lake in the state and a vital ecological treasure. Located near Phura village in Saiha district, within the Mara Autonomous District Council, this deep blue oval-shaped lake is not only visually stunning but also rich in biodiversity and wrapped in myth and mystery.

The Origin Story: Legends and Lore

The name “Pala Tipo” reflects its Mara roots: Pala, stemming from myth, and Tipo, meaning “lake.” Mara folklore credits the lake’s creation to a dramatic tale involving a mysterious serpent that resided beneath the central village rock in a settlement called Hnychao. During the Mara people's westward migration from Burma (circa 800–1200 CE), the serpent supposedly caused children and livestock to vanish mysteriously.

In one version of the story, village hunters managed to kill the beast. When a widow tried to cook its head, the snake’s blinking eyes terrified her so profoundly that she flung the pot into the street. Water rose from the spot and flooded the village, giving birth to the lake.

Another version suggests the serpent was sliced in half, triggering a thunderous eruption of water from its cave that drowned the entire village. Either way, the transformation of Hnychao into a submerged lake earned it the haunting nickname: the swallowing lake.

Geography and Hydrography

• Coordinates: 22°12′09″N, 92°53′18″E

• Area: ~30 hectares (1.5 sq. km)

• Depth: Avg. 17 m; Max. 27 m

• Elevation: ~270 m

• Drainage Basin: ~18.5 sq. km

Two mountain streams feed the lake, while Pala Lui, a small river, handles its outflow. The resulting valley nourishes agriculture for the Mara people and forms an important local resource.

Biodiversity Bonanza

Pala Tipo’s placement in the Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspot means its waters are alive with rare and endemic species. The lake hosts:

• Fishes, prawns, snails, crabs, turtles and tortoises

• Over 70 bird species, including:

  • Black-capped kingfisher

  • Yellow wagtail

  • Nepal fulvetta

  • Hooded pitta

  • White-rumped munia

This haven also draws aquatic birds and wild ducks, many of which aren’t found elsewhere in Mizoram.

Tourism and Scenic Appeal

Pala Tipo’s lush surroundings and expansive water body make it a popular picnic spot in Saiha district. Surrounded by thick forests and rolling hills, the lake offers visitors:

• Boating opportunities

• Wildlife observation

• Spectacular landscape photography

Thanks to its biodiversity, the lake supports eco-tourism, providing visitors with rare glimpses of flora and fauna found only in this region.

Ecological Concerns and Restoration

Human impact hasn’t spared Pala Tipo. Shifting cultivation practices have led to significant deforestation. In response:

• The Indian Ministry of Environment and Forests declared 15 sq. km surrounding the lake as Palak Wildlife Sanctuary

• Recognized by Bombay Natural History Society as a potential Ramsar site for wetland preservation

These efforts aim to conserve not only the lake but the surrounding natural habitat vital to its ecosystem.

How to Visit Pala Tipo

• Distance: ~76 km from Saiha (district HQ)

• Road access: Motorable for light vehicles

• Nearby Cities: Saiha, Champhai, Tiddim

• Nearby Villages: Phura (main route), Tongkalong, Lawngban

Whether you’re an explorer, birdwatcher or just a nature-lover, Pala Tipo offers a serene getaway where myth meets nature in the quiet Hills of Mizoram.