Everything You Need To Know About Nagaland Travel Guide, Best Places To See in 2022
Everything You Need To Know About Nagaland Travel Guide, Best Places To See in 2022
One of India’s most eastern states, Nagaland is bordered by Myanmar, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram. Nagaland’s topography is dominated by the Naga Hills mountains, which are located in the Eastern Himalayan foothills. These hills in Assam rise to a height of 6000 feet from the Brahmaputra Valley. At 12602 feet, Mount Saramati, where the Patkai Range and Naga Hills meet to form the boundary with Myanmar, which is its highest point of the state. Nagaland’s landscape is made up of rivers, waterfalls, valleys, forests, and hills.
Traveling to Nagaland will allow you to connect with this isolated but stunning treasure of the place. It is the only state with 16 living tribes and is also the location of the Konyaks, the last headhunters.
A few travel suggestions for Nagaland are crucial if you want to truly connect with this area, its people, food, and culture. Sadly, this misconception about this Indian state still exists, and people still view it as a remote, primitive place with no connections to the outside world. However, the truth is that compared to residents of big Indian cities, Nagaland residents are much more informed, kind, and open-minded.
• Nagaland is famous for-
Nagaland is renowned for its picturesque landscapes and luxuriant atmosphere, which provide countless options for adventure activities like climbing, trekking, camping, jungle safaris, and water sports. However, Nagaland’s cultural legacy is what draws tourists to this northeastern state. It has a rich variety of tribes and cultures. Out of 66 tribes, 16 recognized as significant tribes. All tribes share a similar green dress code, eating habits, and traditional rules while speaking different languages. Most Nagas are Christians. Given that they make up 75% of the population, the state is thought to be the most Baptist state in the world. Nagas are known for their warmth and hospitality, which astounds everybody who visits them.
The dressing style of these tribes are also very unique! These tribes have some folklore that describes the valorous deeds of their forefathers. Their attire effectively reflects their ancestry. The style of the shawl indicates the wearer’s social standing. The guys’ clothing includes a conical crimson headpiece embellished with black-and-white Hornbill feathers and wild boar canine teeth. Additionally, it is impossible to ignore the tattoos, bangles, and necklaces that are symbolic of bygone battles and sacrifices.
The natives of Nagaland, prefer their food boiled than fried. Bamboo shoot and Bhoot Jolokia remains the key ingredients in almost every dish. They mostly prefer pork with a traditional touch of simple cooking. However, Your feet will start tapping to the music and dancing of the tribe. The dance is typically presented in groups as perfectly timed folk tunes are played on instruments like the asem (drums), tati, mouth organ, bamboo flute, etc. Due to the vibrant and distinctive traditional clothing and jewellery, the tribal dance takes on an extravagant quality. Folk songs tell tales of bravery, love, and historical events.
• History of Nagaland-
Nagaland‘s origins and history are incredibly murky and convoluted. The region’s and the Naga people’s ancient histories are not recorded. The many indigenous communities came from various regions of Mongolia, SE Asia, or SW China at various points in time. Before the Ahom monarchs of Assam dominated this region in the 13th century, the modern Nagas are thought to have made their home there. Before the British colonization, the locals had no touch with the rest of the nation or the outside world. A non-aggression treaty with the Naga leaders was signed in 1828, but it was short-lived. Under a 16-point agreement, Nagaland wasn’t acknowledged as a full-fledged state within the Union of India until 1960. Due to this, most historical places of Nagaland date back to the last century. It’s also unknown where the name Nagaland came from. There is debate over whether the name Na-Ka, which means “those wearing earrings” in Burmese, is where it actually came from.
• Festivals of Nagaland (Nagaland Tourism )-
In Nagaland, the spirit of celebration permeates the atmosphere all year round. The variety of tribes in the area contributes to a year-round atmosphere of delight through numerous fairs and festivities held sometimes. Suhkruhnye, Yemshe, Sekrenyi, Moatsu Mong, Bushu, and many others are among the most significant festivals observed by many tribal tribes. Additionally, the universal holidays like Christmas and New Year’s are observed in accordance with the tribal holidays.
– Hornbill Festival :
It is referred to as the “festival of festivals” and is put on by the state government to promote communication between the many tribes to protect the history and customs of Nagaland observed annually during the first week of December. It was previously observed for the first seven days of December, but because of its enormous popularity, it is now observed for ten days. People from other countries travel here to enjoy the magnificent events of this festival. Along with the locals showcasing their art and selling the wooden carvings, food, and natural medicines, several events are held, including Naga wrestling, archery, beauty contests, Naga king chilly eating contests, and musical concerts. Interesting performances are held for over ten days.
Each tribe celebrates its own unique festivals. This Festival of Events is organised by Nagaland Tourism since it can be challenging to attend some or all of these festivals that are spaced apart by dates and locations. This celebration is attended by all of the Naga tribes. It gives visitors a better understanding of all the Naga Tribes and the chance to engage with their music, dances, cuisine, and customs.
The Hornbill Festival offers visitors the chance to view traditional Morungs (the Naga men’s dormitories, the design of which varies depending on the village or tribe), arts and crafts, ethnic cuisine (some of which is served in the Morung constructed at the Festival venue), flower displays, and herbal medicine stalls. Traditional archery, Naga wrestling, and other sports are also played.
The Indian Hornbill is the source of the festival’s name. The Hornbill is a common bird among the tribes and folklore of Nagaland, and it is frequently spotted prancing around the jungle there. The various tribes in Nagaland treat their cultures with the utmost respect, making it absolutely necessary for them to participate in the festival. This is why it is celebrated with such zeal and pride. Since 16 years ago, people have been celebrating the festival. What was initially a cross-cultural exhibition in the year 2000 is continuing growing today. This celebration aims to safeguard the protection and preservation of Naga culture. The celebration improves relations and fosters harmony between the numerous tribes in Nagaland.
– Mim Kut :
An important celebration in Nagaland is the Mim Kut Festival in January. The Kuki tribe of Nagaland considers that they must appease the demon Thilha since he reaches their region in January. They gather in the Peren District on the 17th of January to carry out numerous customary rites as a result. People attend this festival for a variety of other reasons besides the captivating rituals. The populace dresses according to custom and performs with drums and longhorns.
It exudes excitement and triumph over the harvest of Mim (corn), the season’s final harvest crop. The festival specifically honours the corn harvest. The Kuki people firmly believe that after death, the souls of their departed ancestors emerge from the graves and travel to their houses. In every home, rice is naturally prepared into wine as a gesture of homage to the deceased. Fresh fruits and vegetables, corn, corn-based bread, and handcrafted jewellery with symbolic meanings are also available. The locals also worship the spirits of the dead. Like most Naga holidays, the Mim Kut festival features traditional singing, dancing, musical instrument playing, and a proud show of culture.
The annual maize crop harvest is commemorated at the Mim Kut Festival (Mim). The Kuki tale of “Mim,” which is linked to the festival’s roots. After their mother abandoned them, the original tale depicts the love and devotion between two brothers. When they were both starving, Lendou and his younger brother split a slice of Mim. Mim was the one who helped them get through these trying times, who drew them closer, and who taught them love. In the Kuki culture, Mim marks the end of the year’s harvest. On this day, the populace calls upon and honours their departed ancestors. They distribute mementos made of corn, jewellery, clothing, food, and rice wine. The crop is split in half and offered to departed spirits. Although it is customary, doing so is not truly required. During this event, it is believed that the souls of deceased ancestors will return to their houses. The state’s tourism department has given the celebration high praise.
– Sekrenyi :
This holiday has significant religious significance. The event is observed by the Angami tribe in Kohima with the intention of purging sin from both the body and the soul. The festival begins around February 25 and lasts for 10 to 15 days.
Two days prior to the event, people gather firewood, and the following day, they go hunting in order to prepare the feast. The primary celebration then starts.
Only the young and pure bachelor guys are permitted to perform this labour, which the male family members conduct to clean the wells outside the hamlet. The men travel to the same well and bathe there on the first day of the festival. On that day, ladies are not permitted to go gather water from the well. The men sacrifice a chicken after taking a bath.
Boys must be between the ages of 6 and 7 to participate in this ceremony, and they must offer their first sacrifice of a cock rather than a chicken.
Thekra Hie, when young people from the village sing traditional songs all day long, is the best part of the festival. This three-day singing and eating period starts on the fourth day.
Additionally, the villagers produce rice beer, which is afterwards put into jugs and handed to the villagers alongside foods. Young men go hunting on the seventh day, and the hunt is then celebrated with a feast.
– Aoleng Festival :
The natives continue to rely heavily on agriculture for our livelihood, and we are incredibly grateful for the crops that are produced each year. Numerous celebrations are held across the nation in honor of the harvests. One such festival is the Aoleng Festival in the Mon District. The Konyak tribe celebrates the Aoleng Festival and makes harvest-related prayers when the fields are seeded with seeds. The festivities also signal the conclusion of the current year and the beginning of a new one.
The celebration, which marks the beginning of the konyak new year, is observed in the first week of April. Aoleang stands apart from other celebrations because it is an actual tribal event that lasts for a whole week from April 1 through April 6.
With their tribal dance, singing, and games, the naga people of the konyak display their rich cultural legacy at this event. Every day of the celebration has certain ceremonies that make it important. The communication gap between the tribe and the outside world is also reduced by the event.
The first day of the festival is referred to as “Hon Lai Yah Nyih,” which is just the celebration’s preparatory day. The second day of the event, “Yin Mok Pho Nyih,” features a little child who have not done hunting gets introduced to it.
• Best time to visit Nagaland-
The weather in Nagaland is typical of a hilly area. Nagaland, on the other hand, has considerable rainfall and extreme humidity, unlike other Himalayan regions. As a result, Nagaland experiences frigid weather virtually all year long. While winters are freezing and heavily foggy, summers are preferable because they are a little more comfortable. The best months to travel are October through December or March through May.
• How to reach Nagaland? –
By Railways– Railways connect cities including Kohima, Dhansiri, and Rangapahar. However, Dimapur, which has excellent connections to Guwahati, Kolkata, Jorhat, Dibrugarh, and New Delhi, is home to the main railway junction.
By Road– There are numerous public and private buses that travel to Nagaland from Guwahati, Shillong, Dibrugarh, and other district administrative centers. Renting a car or reserving an outstation cab and driving through the state are alternative options for getting to Nagaland from any of the neighboring cities.
By Airways– The Dimapur Airport, which is around 74 kilometers from Kohima city, serves Nagaland. Major Indian cities and towns including Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Bangalore have frequent flights.
• BEST PLACES TO VISIT IN NAGALAND-
1. KOHIMA
Everyone should include Nagaland’s capital on their list of places to visit. For everyone who enjoys spending time in unspoiled nature, Kohima, originally known as Kewhira, is absolute paradise. At 1500 metres above sea level, it is situated. Awe-inspiring mountains and forests surround it. Adventures like trekking, hiking, and camping are also possible in this area. The Angami tribe resides in this area.
Do stop at the Commonwealth War Cemetery while you’re here. It has the tombs of more than 1400 soldiers who lost their lives defending India against Japanese invasion during World War.
The Naga tribes live in Kohima, a lovely region, where they are fierce and brave but innocent and simple. The quiet pace of life, absence of the bustle of city life, serene surroundings, and clean, fresh air that Kohima, which is nestled on the Eastern borders of the Himalayan mountains, is known for draw thousands of travellers seeking solace. It showcases the exotic Naga heritage and culture and provides stunning views of the hills nearby. Myanmar and Kohima, the capital of the northeastern state of Nagaland, are separated by a common border. Kohima is a must-visit location because there are so many things to do there.
2. DIMAPUR
Since the airport is located in Dimapur, this is the way one enters Nagaland. This location, which is among the most popular tourist destinations in Nagaland, appeals equally to those who enjoy history and the outdoors. Keep an eye out for the 10th-century Kachari ruins, which are set against a stunning natural landscape. There are several places in and around Dimapur that you can visit if you want to marvel at ancient ruins or encounter bizarre nature. This is one of the most well-liked tourist destinations in Nagaland.
In India’s Nagaland state, it is the biggest city. Kohima District to the east, Peren District to the south, Karbi Anglong District of Assam to the west, and a portion of Golaghat District of Assam to the north and west, form the borders of Dimapur District. The state’s only operational airport is located in this city. It is the only plains area in the mountainous Nagaland region, and it has a railway station and airport for the new state’s communication and commercial activities. Nagaland’s commercial centre is Dimapur.
3. DZUKOU VALLEY
Dzukou Valley, which is accessible via Kohima and rests at a height of 2462 meters above sea level, is one of Nagaland’s most attractive locations. This location is on the boundary between the states of Nagaland and Manipur, surrounded by lilies that complement the lush valley. This location, which is frequently crowded with tourists, provides a wide range of adventurous activities, such as trekking and camping. The place is an absolute Paradise on Earth. You will be forever stuck to this place.
The peak flowering period in Dzukou Valley typically lasts the first two weeks of July. The blooming of the flowers coincides with the monsoon season. However, if you can’t make it during the flowering season, we can guarantee you that it will still be beautiful at any time of year and has much more to offer than just vibrant flowers for overexposed selfies.
Even without flowers, it’s a lovely spot to stroll around in, and if you enjoy rock climbing, the valley offers many opportunity to work up a sweat. Even more intriguing (to us, at least) is the fact that foreigners and domestic tourists from farther afield have not yet “found” Dzukou Valley, despite the fact that it is well-known and beloved by local tourists from Nagaland and Manipur.
4. KHONOMA GREEN VILLAGE
Khonoma Green Village in Nagaland is the location to go to see the results of an ongoing, peaceful, responsible lifestyle. This community is surrounded by unpolluted nature, tranquil surroundings, and clean, fresh air. The huts used by the Angami tribe in the settlement were fashioned from recycled and natural materials. This tribe relies on weaving, handlooms, and agriculture for their livelihood. This hamlet is a working illustration of what a neighborhood can accomplish when everyone works together. Visiting the village can increase one’s inspiration to construct such a place for oneself and future generations back at home in this period of accelerating climate change.
The Angami tribe, longtime occupants of the area, established the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary (KNCTS) in 1995, designating a specific area as a sanctuary, with the goal of restoring Khonoma’s rich flora from its then drab façade. Since that time, no hunting or timber harvesting is permitted. Residents were given information on the value of sustainable techniques and were urged to get back into farming. It was difficult to get people to follow the rules about conservation, and it still is in some tiny ways. The majority of Khonoma’s 3000 or so residents have learned the value of conservation and benefited from self-sufficient agriculture methods.
5. TUENSANG
Discover the diverse cultures and customs of the tribes who coexist in Tuensang. You can take home some of the most exquisite and aesthetically diverse handicrafts, jewellery, and artwork from this area. Visit the Living Stone of Tuensang, located 60 kilometers from Tuensang town, to get a taste of the fascinating history of the Naga people.
Tuensang in Nagaland, a region of pristine beauty, dazzles with hills and valleys. You are guaranteed to see a pool of clouds meandering over the blue hills of Nagaland from every turn you make from these hill residences. Tuensang is, of course, very well kept, with regular bus routes and shops that make it easy to access restaurants, so getting there is not a tough effort. Because Tuensang offers the greatest in legacy, culture, and lifestyle, it can be regarded as one of the best spots to visit while in Nagaland. Travelers favour Tuensang over all other places, making it the ideal place to spend an unforgettable vacation.
6. MOKOKCHUNG
The vibrant Ao tribe, which calls this region home, is known for its warm hospitality and exquisite customs, making it the liveliest area in all of Nagaland. Get ready to let the captivating hills and streams’ magnificence wash over your senses. The traveler will have stories to share for years about the great places located in and around Mokokchung.
The Ao tribe makes up the majority of the population in Mokokchung, which is regarded as a state rich in culture and intellect. It will make you smile to see smiling faces every day in this hub no matter what time of year you visit. It is always glowing and on cloud nine. Away from the bustle and mess, Mokokcung is all about “little to have but plenty to give.” Trust me; I’ve heard many people confess that they want to relocate to a heavenly kingdom.
Regarding the name, which many people find difficult to pronounce, it is not difficult to say because the term is made up of two parts: Mokok and Chung, where Mokok meaning unwillingly and Chung means a group of people. Consequently, the term Mokokchung means a group of individuals that voluntarily left their village.
7. WOKHA
The state’s characteristic green hills and terrain get livelier and more beautiful as you approach Wokha. Numerous plants overflowing with colorful blooms, fresh and luscious fruits, and freely flowing rivers will allure you with their beauty. The Lotha tribe is the one that calls this place home.
With Assam to the west and north, Kohima and Dimapur to the south, Zunheboto to the east, and Mokokchung to the northeast, Wokha shares borders. Wokha, in Nagaland, is a must-see destination during a vacation because of its stunning mountain ranges, rivers, and lively dances. Additionally, it takes pride in being the home of the Lothas, a significant Naga tribe. The history of this lovely tourist destination is that it was still governed by the British after 1876. Wokha remained a subdivision until the headquarters were moved to Kohima later in 1878. The sub-vision was once more altered to Mokokchung in 1889. Wokha was a section of Naga Hills Tuensang Area after the country gained independence in 1957 and remained so till she became a district in 1973.
8. DZULEKIE
As far as the eyes can see, a green jungle surrounds the charming settlement of Dzuleke. With only 32 homes, nature has abundantly blessed the area and technology has not yet infected people’s lives with its annoying venom. For Naga locals, Dzuleke is a famous picnic spot. Dzulekie is located in the isolated hills of Nagaland, 18 kilometers forward of Khonoma Village and 40 kilometers from the state capital Kohima. During autumn, it becomes a small stream of immaculately clean water with deep planks on the edge of the farms and picnic areas and in monsoon, the river gurgles loudly.
Visitors can get a good sense of rural life in Nagaland by visiting Dzulekie, which has a tiny Angamis community. Dzulekie, with its charming buildings, well-kept stone walks, and surroundings of forests and rice fields, offers a chance to experience village life and take in nature in a relatively untainted state.
The settlement itself is manageable on foot. It provides chances to experience local cuisine while constructing bamboo and cane baskets, weaving cloth, playing traditional games, and other cultural activities. The semi-evergreen forests provide chances for nature hikes, trekking, and seeing birds and butterflies.
9. MON
The Mon district resting in the Nagaland’s topmost tip has azure skies, glistening streams and soaring peaks and valley stretch out to embrace the gently rolling forests. Mon resonates with tribal culture, customs, and an overall otherworldly vibe, providing a look into India’s undisputed wild east. The colony of the seductive headhunting Konyak Nagas, who live directly on the border between India and Myanmar, adds to the area’s primal fascination. Visit Mon to see the region that is best associated with clouds, mist, and alder thickets and to see the final traces of the intriguing society that was once Nagaland.
Mon resonates with tribal culture, customs, and an overall otherworldly vibe, providing a look into India’s undisputed “wild-east.” The colony of the seductive headhunting Konyak Nagas, who live directly on the border between India and Myanmar, adds to the area’s primal fascination. Visit Mon to see the region that is best associated with clouds, mist, and alder thickets and to see the final traces of the intriguing society that was once Nagaland.
10. TOUPHEMA
Touphema village of Nagaland has been given special importance by the government of Nagaland recently, so as to promote tourism and also to safeguard the rich tribal culture. The village was developed on the same ground and was popularized through the famous Hornbill Festival. It is a perfect place to experience rich culture, Naga tradition, and history. A walk in this village would be understanding the history deeply, various myths, legends, folklores and facts about the ancient culture of the Naga tribe gets unfolded during your visit to Touphema village.
The village, one of the most stunning tourist destinations in Nagaland, offers you the chance to unwind in the surroundings of the natural scenic beauty. However, if you have a sense of adventure, this tourist spot won’t let you down either.
Traditional Naga performances are part of the village’s daily routines. The performers provide a range of regional dance styles and traditional tales. Additionally, you can sample traditional Naga food at the village’s common mess. You can sample some Kongshia Lon, Smoked Pork Stew, Bamboo Steamed Fish, and Dry Pork.
You can also go shopping for handicrafts and regional clothing in the adjacent marketplaces or by taking a bus to Kohima.
THINGS TO DO IN YOUR TOUR TO NAGALAND –
. Take part in the harvest celebration at the Aoleang Festival, that takes place in April every year. This will enable you to experience and explore the culture and tradition of Nagaland get connected to the locals more.
. Do not forget to attend the annual Hornbill National Rock Concert, which popularize Nagaland globally. The 10 days musical concerts invite artists and musicians from all over the world to perform.
. Take a trek to Mount Saramati, one of the most famous trekking spot in the Eastern Himalayas, among the other professionals. The trek begins at Salumi and goes all the way to the India- Myanmar border.
. You should definitely try mountain biking on the trails of the rainforest in the Naga Hills, that is a home to Himalayan flora and fauna.
. You should also not miss the chance to take a camping trip to Shilloi Lake, surrounded by valleys and pine forests, the lake presents absolutely beautiful views and stargazing scenes.
. You can also ride a kayak or go for birding tours to see exotic and rare bird species.