Buannel, a scenic highland destination in Chin State, near Champhai in Mizoram, is witnessing a sharp decline in tourist arrivals during what is usually its peak season of February–March. 

• Ongoing clashes between Myanmar’s military junta and armed Chin groups have raised security concerns, prompting advisories against travel.

What is Buannel and why is it popular?

• Buannel is known for its picturesque highland landscape and pleasant dry-season climate.
• February–March is the most attractive period due to the blooming of rare flowers such as:
  • Chawkhlei (rhododendron)
  • Bingbi (drumstick primrose or primula species)
• It has traditionally attracted tourists from Mizoram, other parts of India, and some foreign visitors.

Security situation and advisory

• Clashes in nearby areas of Chin State have directly affected the tourist zone.
• The Buannel Management Committee, under the Hualngoram People’s Organisation, has issued an advisory urging people from Mizoram to avoid visiting Buannel during the peak months.
• Heightened insecurity has made travel risky despite favourable weather and road conditions.

Cultural significance

• Buannel holds deep emotional and spiritual value for the Mizo people.
• It is believed to be the abode of Chawngtinlerhi, a mythical nymph in Mizo folklore regarded as the creator and guardian of wild animals.
• The area is also considered the mythical birthplace of animals, giving it cultural importance beyond tourism.

Impact of border restrictions

• The Assam Rifles have imposed tighter controls at Zokhawthar, the border trade village on the India–Myanmar boundary.
• Casual cross-border movement across the Tiau river has been restricted.
• These measures have also reduced visits to Rih Dil (Rih Lake), another major attraction in Myanmar, where visitors are now allowed to stay for only one hour.

One-line wrap

Conflict in Myanmar’s Chin State has disrupted cross-border cultural tourism, sharply reducing visits to Buannel despite peak season conditions.

Exam Hook – 

Q. Consider the following statements:

1. Buannel is located in Myanmar’s Chin State near the Mizoram border.
2. February–March is considered the peak tourist season for Buannel due to favourable climate and flowering of rare plants.
3. Rih Dil lake is located on the Indian side of the India–Myanmar border.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Answer: 1 and 2

Source