HRIPHI
Hriphi is a village located in the Thantlang district of the northern part of Chin State, Myanmar, adjacent to Mizoram state of India. It lies between 22 degrees 33 minutes north latitude and 93 degrees 22 minutes east longitude. The estimate above sea level is 1795 meters with an area of about 12 square miles. Hriphi is exceptional in its geographical composition and beauty. The exquisite cliff range 'Miepi ', situated at the head of the village, offers a fresh wind and amazing views to catch sight of surrounding villages terrane of Mizoram that attracts many locals and visitors in the summertime. The green and vast ‘Phaipinel' paddy field of 400 acres on the village base, is another astonishing God's handiwork that rarely exists in a hilly site. It becomes the backbone and rice bowl for the local villagers. Moreover, Leisih Lungkua’, a river underpass or tunnel, is wonderfully crafted and worth visiting. Besides, about 1000 meters long hill called ‘Sianginn Tlang’ on the up-hilltop of the soccer field is quite splendid with a ‘Vanchin-Oo’ view at the edge, offering an astounding view of the green paddy field from July to September, and the golden scene in the harvest season. ‘Aido Cliff’ and ‘Thalngol’ mountains are also remarkable and adventurous for trekking and sightseeing. In addition, many colorful flowers such as cherries, rhododendrons, and different orchids bloom all year round. This unique God’s craft made Hriphi remarkable and known among the Chins and attracted many to visit. Chin State's government also accredits Hriphi the state’s forest conservation area because of its great nature and beauty. Some visitors even compare the attraction of Hriphi to a ‘Hidden Paradise’. This wonderful land was first inhabited around AD 1,800 by Ringlawt and Cimring clans. But later they made Pu Hlei Lian, son of Thang Ding from the Zathang clan their chief and became Hriphi as Zathang ram (Land). Pu Hlei Lian was known as a brave and charismatic leader. He was the younger brother of Vuangtu chief Al Bik. The name Hriphi was given because there were a lot of canes sprouting in the land (Hriphi in English is Cane). Pastor Heng Cin from Hriphi was the first missionary worker in the Zophei area and is regarded as the father of the churches in the Zophei area. There are about 1,700 inhabitants in Hriphi village with about 200 households in Hriphi B and about 100 households in Hriphi A.
