[3][12] Having served as the capital of the British Lushai Hills from 1898 to 1947, colonial structures are prevalent in the city centre including but not limited to the Raj Bhavan,[13] the Red School,[14][a] and the Office of the Deputy Commissioner.

This outpost, initially on an abandoned settlement founded by Suakpuilala (recorded by the British as Sukpilal), the Chief of Reiek, later evolved into Aizawl (Aijal) village.

Situated a mere 14 kilometres from Sairang and accessible via flat-bottomed boats, it served as a strategic location, with the Li Bial stream.

[18] In 1889, Officer Dally of the Assam Police, accompanied by 400 men, arrived in Aizawl village to assist Colonel Skinner's troops during a British military operation against the Mizo natives.

Aizawl was subsequently chosen as the site for a fortified post on Dally's recommendation, leading Colonel Skinner to oversee its construction.

In the same year, Fort Aijal was established, a small village that became the capital of British administration in North Lushai Hills.

[22][23][24] Aizawl swiftly emerged as the administrative and religious hub for the Mizos, following the establishment of the Welsh Mission Society headquarters in the city.

This led to a surge in population as Aizawl Bazar evolved into the primary commercial center of the Lushai Hills region.

[19] The once modest village, situated on a level hilltop, underwent rapid expansion, transforming into a rugged and uneven settlement.

The intensification of the Mautam famine in the late 1950s prompted an influx of people seeking sustenance and opportunities, further fuelling Aizawl's growth.

Nearby villages like Chaltlang and Durtlang soon became absorbed into the expanding urban landscape, marking the transition of Aizawl into a modern cityscape by the early 1960s.

In an effort to suppress the MNF's advances, on 5–6 March, the Government of India launched a devastating bombardment of Aizawl and its surrounding areas, resulting in significant loss of life.

The city emerged as a key commercial and trade centre in the region, with Burmese ethnic Chin immigrants seeking better job opportunities in Aizawl.

This facilitated the implementation of infrastructure projects, such as Lengpui Airport, educational initiatives, healthcare programs, and poverty alleviation measures aimed at fostering socio-economic growth and improving the quality of life for its citizens.

Aizawl lies at approximately 23°43′N, 92°43′E and is perched on the ridge of a hill at an average elevation of 1,132 meters (3,714 feet) above sea level.

Serving a term of five years, the councils work in close coordination with the AMC to address local governance and community issues.

All India Radio (AIR) Aizawl broadcasts in Mizo, English, and occasionally in other regional languages, focusing on news, educational content, and cultural programs.

Published entirely in the Mizo language, it serves as the primary source of local, regional, and national news for Mizoram's residents.

The paper covers a wide range of topics, including politics, social issues, culture, education, and sports, while also offering editorials and opinion pieces reflective of the state’s unique perspectives.,[42] The major media in Aizawl in the Mizo and English languages are:[43] Chapchar Kut, one of Mizoram's most cherished festivals, signals the arrival of spring and is celebrated with enthusiasm and grandeur.

On the roads, people would stand with a plate of boiled eggs and give it to passers-by, a pre-Christian tradition called Chhawnghnawh.

[53] The airport provides connectivity to Kolkata, Delhi, Guwahati, Agartala, Shillong and Imphal, operated by Air India, Go First and IndiGo.

A helicopter service by Pawan Hans[54] was started in 2012 and connects the city with Lunglei, Lawngtlai, Saiha, Chawngte, Serchhip, Champhai, Kolasib, Khawzawl, Ngopa and Hnahthial.