Saiha is situated in the southernmost region of the north-eastern state of Mizoram. Spread over an area of 1,966 sq km, the district is divided into sub-divisions such as Saiha and Tuipang. Saiha is situated along the international boundary of Myanmar on the eastern and southern side.
The district is named after 'Sia' meaning an elephant tooth in the regional dialect Mara. This was the region where elephant teeth were found in large amounts. The district is also referred as 'Siaha', which originated from Lushai language.
Saiha is home to the Mara tribe belonging to the Kuki-Chin group of the Tibeto-Burman community. The roots of tribal populace belong to the regions of South China. The tribes migrated to their present Maraland in the later part of the 17th century. Lying along the river Kolodyne (Beino), Maraland was partitioned for administrative convenience into various parts, one of which is present day Saiha.
The district features several streams and mountain ranges, which offer opportunities for activities such as hiking, fishing and trekking in the foothills of mountains. Pala Tipo, also known as Pala Lake, is the biggest lake in Mizoram with an area of 30 hectares and is maintained by the autonomous government of Maraland. The archaic town of Saikao is a home to Mara tribes, which include Lusheis, Paites and Hmar. Missionaries House, built in the 1920s, is one of the major attractions of the town.
Travellers can reach Saiha easily with the availability of flights, trains and buses. The closest airport to the district headquarters is located in Aizawl, at a distance of 170 km. The railhead of Silchar is the closest railway station to the district headquarters. Managed by the North East Frontier Railways, the railway junction is well connected.
Saiha experiences temperate weather conditions, which feature moderate summers and pleasing winters. The winter season is ideal to visit Saiha.