Nagaland
The state of Nagaland was officially introduced as the 16th state of the Indian Territory on 1st December 1963. Nagaland represents unparallel natural beauty, shaped exclusively for an incredible experience.
Location
The state is located on the extreme northern corner of the Indian map, placed just beside Arunachal Pradesh. The state boundary is connected with Assam form the north and in the west, Arunachal Pradesh from north and Manipur from south. Nagaland shares its international border on the east with Myanmar which was formerly known as Burma. Kohima is the capital city of Nagaland and Dimapur is the highest populated city of this state.
There are 16 major tribes and some sub tribal communities who inhabit the seven administrative districts of Nagaland. The habits, customs and rituals are different for every tribe and each tribe can be distinguished separately by their language, clothing and jewelries.
Places to see
Dimapur: Dimapur is situated at a distance of 74 kms from Kohima. Being is a commercial town, it is highly attracts tourists and visitors throughout the year. The town is well planned and modern; numerous hotels and lodges have come up here to match up the commercial significance of this place. North East Zone Cultural Central Museum, Medieval Kachari Kingdom, Chumukedima are some special places of interest that are located in and around Dimapur.
Kohima: Kohima is a beautifully planned town where Japanese forces used to stay during the World War II. The war cemetery is located at the heart of the town. Apart from this, war memorial, the Kohima Village, the Cathedral and the Museum are some must see places in Kohima.
Mokokchung: Mokokchung is situated 162 km away from Kohima and 115 km far from Tuensang. This village inhebited by the Ao tribes is located at a distance of 102 kms from Amguri of Assam and 103 km far from Mariyani of Assam. Therefore, this place easily attracts visitors from the neighboring state Assam also. Mokokchung has a number of exciting tourist destines like Ungma, Molung, Peren, Chuchuyimlang, Langpangkong Cave, Longkhum etc.
Mon: Mon is the residence of the Konyak tribe of Nagaland. It is located at a distance of 357 km from Kohima and is known for its excellence in craftsmanship. The Konyak tribes are masters in making crafted wooden items, necklaces, head brushes, gun powder etc. A visit to this place will also enable the tourists to make a trip for Veda Peak, Chui Village, Longwa Village, Naganimora, and Shangnyu Village.
Tuensang: Tuensanh is inhabited by six different tribes of Nagaland namely, Changs, Sangtams, Semas, Phoms, Khiamniungans and Yimchungers. Therefore, this district is wealthy and affluent in its tribal cultural heritage. Other than exploring the tribal villages some places of interest in Tuensang include Longtrok and Kiphere etc.
Zunheboto: This district is very popular for the colorful festival celebrated by the Sema tribes of Nagaland during July every year. Places of interest at Zunheboto are Ghosu Bird Sanctuary and Satoi Range.
Festivals
Nagaland is a land of festivals and every festival is distinctive in nature and character. All the Naga festivals are celebrated with great vigor and merriment. Dancing, singing and drinking of local beer are some common characteristic of Naga festivals. The prime occupation in Nagaland is agriculture therefore most of the celebrations in Nagaland are typically related to agriculture. The communities might be different but rituals like singing, dancing and drinking are some common features of all Naga festivals.
Hornbill Festival: The Hornbill festival is mainly celebrated is Kohima and participation of all Naga tribes are must in this festival. This is a part of Nag custom and heritage and therefore, attracts the tourist attention.
Moatsu: This is a festival of Alo tribes which is being held in the month of May every year. Moatsu is celebrated with great pomp and the entire tribal folk participate in eating, dancing and song composition. Man and woman folk appeal to God for his blessing to have a peaceful and happy life.
Nazu Festival: Nazu is a 10 days long festival of the Pochury tribe. This festival is very ritualistic in nature and celebrated before the sowing of seeds to earn blessings for a good harvest.
Sekrenyi Festival: Sekrenyi is a 10 days long festival celebrated by the Angamis tribe of Nagaland. A series of rituals are observed during these ten days where young Naga folks compose traditional songs and sing it throughout the day.
Yemshe Festival: Yemshe is celebrated by Pochury tribes of Nagaland during the first week of October every year. Pochury tribes host this festival to welcome the advent of harvesting season in Nagaland.
Tulani Festival: Tulani is a very significant occasion of the Sumi tribes which is being celebrated in the month of July every year. All men and women of this community participate into this festival and follow the rituals accordingly. Group banquet is a notable feature of this festival where meat and locally made beer is being served.
How to Reach
After a few decades of unrest Nagaland is now much peaceful and paving its ways for growth and development. The state Government is working a lot to develop Nagaland’s infrastructure and the tourism industry. The enchanting landscape and virgin nature of Nagaland undoubtedly create special interest among tourists. Therefore, Nagaland is well connected with good transport network so that transportation never becomes an obstacle for tourists while planning to make a trip for Nagaland.
By Air: The Dimapur airport is the only airbase located in this state. Domestic airline services are available on regular bases which connect Nagaland with cities like Kolkata and Guwahati etc.
By Rail: The nearest railhead of Nagaland is Dimapur which is linked with Guwahati railway station.
By Road: Kohima the state capital of Nagaland possesses a smooth roadway connectivity which is linked with major northeastern cities like Guwahati and Shillong. Intercity bus services, luxury coaches, and taxis are available for the visitors to move in and around the state.
What to Do
Wildlife in Nagaland
If you have interest in nature then you will definitely surrender to the diversified beauty of the virgin nature of Nagaland. The state of Nagaland is a place that houses exceptionally good geographical background supported by lush green natural beauty, towering mountains and is rich in its collection of flora and fauna.
Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary: The Fakim reserve forest is located nearby the Myanmar border and boosts with a large variety of vegetation. The sanctuary is located amidst hillocks, watercourse and narrow valleys. Spreading over an area of approximately 642 hectors, Fakim Sanctuary receives highest rainfall in Nagaland. Some significant trees of this forest are Amari, Bogipoma, Sasi, Khasi Pine, Uriam,Oaks, Gamari, Bonsum,Alder, Kachnar, Hollock, Nahor, etc. Wide range of bamboos and canes are also found in this sanctuary. Variety of orchids, numerous species of shrubs and ferns are also found in abundance in this tropical rain forest.
Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary: Itanki is located 37 km far from Dimapur and 111 km away from the capital city of Nagaland which is under the conservation of the State Forest Wildlife Department. This sanctuary has a rich floral and faunal culture. This sanctuary is a happy nest for many wild animals like sambar, mithun, elephant, wild dog, tiger, goral, barking deer, sloth bear etc. Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary is very popular for its collection of birds. Hornbill, common pheasant, kaleej, black star along with a variety of rare bird species can be found in this reserve forest.
Adventure Sports
In regards to adventure activities, Nagaland welcomes trackers who wish to explore the state more than what a simple tourist can do. Nagaland provides excellent trekking opportunities as the topography of this state is very challenging. Nagaland in other words can be termed as the trackers paradise and it offers numerous opportunities to the adventurous holiday hunters. Tracking through the extremely adventurous terrains and valleys of Nagaland is an outstanding experience for many trackers and adventure sport loves.
Some famous tracking points of Nagaland are Mount Tiri, Satoi Range, Pungro and Mokokchung.
Best Time to Visit
The weather of Nagaland is very pleasant and comfortable. Cold wind blows between February and March when weather becomes chillier and temperature falls up to 4 degree c. The best time to visit Nagaland is from October to May.
History
The inhabitants of Nagaland are known as Nagas who belong to the Mongoloid community. The Naga tribe migrated to this hilly region long back. The Nagas were famous for their bravery and they fought against British during the pre-independence period. However, British Government formed a cordial relationship with the Nagas during the later part and persuaded them to stand against the Japanese who were all set to take over Kohima.
Climate
Though the climate is quite comfortable in Nagaland but, the rainy season observes heavy downpour here between Junes to September every year. The average rainfall in Nagaland during monsoon is between 175 cms to 250 cms. In summers, the temperature dwells from 16 degree C to 31 degree C.
Excellent accommodation facilities are provided to the visitors in different Government and private hotels and guest houses while exploring Nagaland.
