One of the seven sisters of the North-Eastern states of India, Nagaland is an incredibly beautiful mountain state that holds amazing surprises for you. Apart from its bewitching natural beauty, Nagaland’s unique culture and traditions are bound to amaze you. Although this state has a population of just about 2 millions, a total of 16 different major tribes inhabit it, each representing a unique cultural system. A land steeped in mystery, Nagaland is synonymous with lively vibrant people zealously guarding their culture and natural heritage manifested by dancers, warriors, head-hunters, mountains, valleys and dense jungles.
With “The Explorers” you’ll get to experience the authentic, traditional, not-so-touristy, hidden Nagaland. Our tour will take you to places like Kohima, Tuophema, Khonoma and Mokokchung . This tour is designed in such a way that you will get to do some exhilarating walks, learn about the history of Nagaland, have a cup of tea with the locals and get an up-close peek into their traditional ways of living that is “purely Nagaland”.
Doesn’t sound like a normal Nagaland tour, right? Well, that’s the whole point. And yes, that doesn’t mean you won’t get to see the 'tourist' side of Kohima! You will witness the hustle-bustle of Kohima and visit the touristy places of this beautiful town as well.
PLACES YOU SHALL VISIT
Kohima
Once inhabited by the Angami tribe (one of the largest Naga tribes), the beautiful town of Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, has people from all ethnicities from different parts of Nagaland and other neighboring states living here. This town offers a heapful of goodies to tourists in the form of building architecture, historical monuments and amazing natural splendor all around.
Nagaland is known for its rich and vibrant culture and you shall get a glimpse of this during your visit to Kohima. Each and every tribe in Nagaland (there are 16 of them!) has its own ceremonial attire which is embodied with multi-coloured spears, dyed goat’s hair, bird features and even elephant’s teeth!
What’s in store for you here?
Visit to the World War II Cemetery that lies in a beautiful surrounding – it’s a tribute to the warriors who made supreme sacrifices in the battle of 2nd World War, Bishop’s Cathedral – North East’s largest Cathedral and the Nagaland State Museum which would give you a deeper insight into the history and culture of the 16 tribes that inhabit the state and Khonoma Heritage Village that showcases different types of Naga houses and the related articles and is considered as one of the most beautiful villages of India. You shall also get to visit the awesome Dzokou Valley, a botanical wonder, where you shall get to do an exciting short trek. You might even get to spot the rare bird, Blyth’s tragopan on this trek which is found in very few places and Dzokou is one of those!
Touphema
Located about 37 kms away from Kohima, this beautiful hamlet is an ode to the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland. Touphema is one of the most sought-after places to visit in Nagaland which has huts built in Naga style of architecture with native décor. This village is an example to others on how communities can be self-reliant and even propel the government machinery to chip in with help.
What’s in store for you here?
You shall get to have a close look into the daily activities in the village that include traditional Naga performances. The artists perform various local dance forms and folk tales. You shall get to taste typical Naga cuisine in the community mess at the village. You will see their barns and bedrooms, kitchens and courtyards, the morungs (traditional bachelor pads) and the memorial stones and not to miss, the heads of hunted animals lining the verandas of the huts!
Mokokchung
Located at an elevation of about 4500 feet above sea level, Mokokchung is an enchanting hill resort where you shall be engulfed by the best nature has to offer. Serenity, fresh air, unhurried pace of life and bewitching natural beauty of this town shall leave you spellbound. This picture perfect place is set amidst the Blue Mountains and green vegetation all around.
What’s in store for you here?
Mokokching is home to the Ao Naga tribe, so apart from soaking up nature at its best you shall also get to witness the culture, traditions and practices of the natives. You shall get to explore some of the villages surrounding this town such as Longkhum and Ungma for an immersive experience of Nagaland. Gifted by nature with gurgling streams and picturesque hills this ‘Ao land’ truly welcomes you!
Khonoma
Khonoma, a village in Nagaland, is awarded the title of warrior village due to its fierce resistance during the British colonial period. It overlooks mesmerizing paddy fields and hills covered with lush forests. To save deforestation and loss of nature, the villagers have initiated in wildlife conservation. Khonoma is also the first Green Village in Asia. With its naturally blessed resources, intriguing history and rich culture, the village is one of the most visited places in Nagaland.
What’s in store for you here?
With us, you will be able to travel through a pristine forest area and on the way you can see the state animal ‘Mithun’. Staying at a village homestay, you will get an unforgetful experience of intermingling with the locals of Khonoma. A walk through ceremonial gates, fort and age-group houses will get you to meet local craftsmen during this walk. Later we shall explore the age old tradition of practicing terrace farming. Last but not the least, you will also get to know about the unique ‘headhunting culture’ and terrace farming of Nagaland.
Benreu
Historically home to the Zeliang tribe, Benreu village in the Peren district of Nagaland is the abode of clouds and rains. Perched at a height of 1950 metres, the surreal Benreu faces the third highest peak of Nagaland, Mout Pauna. The village is a centre for ethnic tourism with 20% villagers being animist. Interestingly, Benreu is one of the few places in India where Mithuns are grown.
What’s in store for you here?
With us, you will get to visit the Peletkie Village where you get to see the process of locally made salt. We can also arrange a trek to Mt Pauna, the 3rd highest peak in Nagaland. For leisure tourists who have interest in history we have planned up an array of leisure activities which will get you tin contact with local animal hunters and see their trophies, listen to their stories of their expeditions and interact with the villagers. We have also arranged for a visit to Morung, the informal institution where you shall have a close look at the oral histories, tradition, culture that have down from generation to generations!
TRIVIA
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Nagaland is also known as the Falcon Capital of the World due to its staggering population of Amur falcons.
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About 1/6th of the state is covered under sub-tropical and tropical evergreen forests.
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91% of the state is hilly with Mt. Saramati being the highest peak, at the height of about 12000 ft above sea level.
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Nagaland is home to 16 major tribes and a number of sub-tribes.
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Nagaland is known as “Land of Festivals”. This can be because of the existence of so many tribes and each tribe having its own festival.
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“Bhut Jolokia”, world’s hottest chilli pepper as per The Guinness Book of World Record is grown in almost every house in Nagaland.
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The symbol of social hierarchy is “Naga shawl” – each tribe has a different way of weaving, designing and patterns on the shawl.
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Tribes of Nagaland practiced head hunting till as late as early 20th century!
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Inhabitants of northern part of this state still live a life based on hunting and farming.
PLEASE NOTE
Indian nationals need Inner Line Permit (I.L.P) and foreign nationals need Restricted Area Permit (R.A.P) to visit Nagaland. Assistance in procuring these shall be provided by us.