Castle Rock Bawinu would be one of the best potential Geoheritage & Ecotourism Sites in India. It is located on the bank of the river 'Kolodyne', about 20 minutes upstream boat ride from Hruitezawl village, Lawngtlai District. The exploration of these natural beauties, however, is really enthralling. It is known for its geological marvel which is a craftsmanship of nature. Set in the pristine river of Koladyne, Castle Rock Bawinu is a sprawling alley of rocks about 8 to 10 metres high on both sides of the river. One must be adventurous enough to see these beauties carved out by nature. However, a mud on one's boots will give you a lifetime memories. The native called this Castle Rock as ‘Meilawng’. It is also called as ‘Sapho’ by the Mara’s.
The Kolodyne/Kaladan River is a river in eastern Mizoram State of India. It is also known as Chhimtuipui, Bawinu or Beino. It was an entry point to Mizoram from the seaport of Sittwe in 1904. Kaladan is Mizoram's largest river and it flows through its southeastern region. As the river Kolodyne (Chhimtuipui) is shared by Lai Autonomous District Council & Mara Autonomous District Council, 'Bawinu/Beino', is the dialect of Lai and Mara respectively which mean Kaladan or Chhimtuipui, the name of this place came up differently in social media recently. While it is known famously as 'Bawinu/Meilawng' in LADC area, it is also known popularly as 'Castle of Beino' in MADC area. However, these marvelous rocks stands firm on the side of Lai Autonomous District Council. The locals believe it to be a cursed castle and have mystical folklore's surrounding it. It is said that the River Queen of Spirits inhabits the place acting as an ombudsman. This unfrequented destination must be explored with one’s own eyes for its untold beauty to be unraveled.
Wonderful natural beauty of Castle of Bawinu has been lying undiscovered and unexplored by the other world due to the landlocked location for a long period of time. In recent times the number of visitors to this area has increased tremendously because of the Tourism development in the State. Mysterious rock of Bawinu, diverse topography and ethnic groups has of late, started attracting domestic as well as foreign tourists into the region and recently, community-based tourism has gained importance. Castle Bawinu is now becoming the most attractive and visited Tourist place in Mizoram.
Photo courtesy of Kiddy Vanchhawng
