Nagaland Travel Guide

Overview

Nagaland, the “Land of Festivals,” is a picturesque state in Northeast India, known for its rich tribal heritage, colorful festivals, lush hills, and warm hospitality. Bordered by Myanmar to the east, Nagaland offers a blend of breathtaking natural beauty and ancient traditions preserved by its 16 major tribes.

Top Places to Visit in Nagaland

1. Kohima

  • Highlights: Capital city, famous for its serene hills and history.
  • Attractions:
    • Kohima War Cemetery (World War II memorial)
    • Kisama Heritage Village (Hornbill Festival venue)
    • Japfu Peak (trekking and panoramic views)
    • Dzüko Valley (lush green valley with seasonal flowers)

2. Dimapur

  • Highlights: Gateway to Nagaland; modern and well-connected.
  • Attractions:
    • Kachari Ruins (10th-century monoliths)
    • Triple Falls
    • Rangapahar Reserve Forest and Zoological Park
    • Hong Kong Market (shopping for tribal crafts and textiles)

3. Mokokchung

  • Highlights: Cultural heart of the Ao tribe.
  • Attractions:
    • Longkhum Village (scenic viewpoints)
    • Chuchuyimlang Village (Ao tribal traditions)
    • Mopungchuket Village (clean, beautiful, and eco-friendly)

4. Mon

  • Highlights: Land of the Konyak headhunters.
  • Attractions:
    • Longwa Village (on the Indo-Myanmar border)
    • Shangnyu Village (ancient tribal artifacts)
    • Veda Peak (highest in Mon district)

5. Wokha

  • Highlights: Home of the Lotha tribe; known for oranges and rhododendrons.
  • Attractions:
    • Mount Tiyi (trekking and legends)
    • Doyang River (birdwatching, especially Amur falcons)

6. Tuophema Village

  • Highlights: A model village that preserves Naga culture and heritage through homestays, crafts, and cuisine.

Major Festivals

Hornbill Festival (Dec 1–10)

  • Held at Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima.
  • Showcases all 16 tribes with traditional dances, food, crafts, and rock concerts.

Aoleang Festival (April)

  • Celebrated by the Konyak tribe to mark the arrival of spring.

Moatsu Festival (May)

  • Ao tribe’s festival celebrating friendship and harvest.

How to Reach

By Air:

  • Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport (connected to Guwahati and Kolkata)

By Train:

  • Nearest Station: Dimapur Railway Station (connected to major Indian cities)

By Road:

  • Well connected via NH 29 to Kohima and Dimapur.
  • State-run and private buses available from Guwahati and Shillong.

Where to Stay

  • Kohima: Hotel Japfu, The Heritage, Razhu Pru.
  • Dimapur: Niathu Resort, Hotel Lake Shilloi.
  • Mokokchung: Whispering Winds, Circuit House.
  • Homestays: Available in most villages for cultural immersion.

Local Cuisine

  • Must Try Dishes:
    • Smoked pork with bamboo shoot
    • Axone (fermented soybean)
    • Rice beer (Zutho)
    • Naga chili chutney (very spicy!)
    • Sticky rice and steamed vegetables

Things to Do

  • Trekking in Dzüko Valley and Japfu Peak
  • Attend the Hornbill Festival
  • Explore tribal villages and traditional crafts
  • Birdwatching at Doyang Reservoir
  • Shop for handmade Naga shawls and bamboo products

Best Time to Visit

  • October to May: Pleasant weather, ideal for sightseeing and festivals.
  • Avoid June–September (heavy monsoon).

Travel Tips

  • Obtain Inner Line Permit (ILP) for domestic tourists (available online or at Nagaland House offices).
  • Respect local customs and ask before taking photos in villages.
  • Carry cash — card payments may not be accepted everywhere.
  • Dress modestly and appropriately for cultural visits.