Tourist Attractions of Nagaland

Traveling to Nagaland would take you to the land of exotic green valleys, looming mountains and ethnic tribes. Away from the hustle and bustle of city life it is a cocoon of natural wealth. The breathtaking beauty of the pristine land may at times leave you exhausted for it gauds you to drink in all the vibrancy of nature all at once. Tourist Attractions of Nagaland is not just about the exotic tribes, their habitat, culture but about its natural flora and fauna, its fairs and festivals and its well known cities.

Kohima, the capital city of Nagaland with the magnificent view of the rugged Naga Hills offers interesting things to do. It was a witness to the fierce fight during the Second World War and the war cemetery; a serene stretch land of manicured greens carries an engraved epitaph, which says, “When you go home/ Tell them of us and say/ For your tomorrow/ We gave our today”. Interesting is the next most important place in Kohima, Barra Basti, the second largest village in Asia. Typical of a Naga village it has the gateway decorated elaborately with warriors and weapons and the mithun skull, a symbol of prosperity. In the middle of the village is a house built in the typical Naga style with crossed horns, carved mithun heads, a huge grain basket and a manger containing rice beer. The State Museum and the Catholic Cathedral are the other important tourist attractions in Kohima.

Khonoma is another of the villages of Nagaland famous for its wildlife sanctuary which encompasses rare species of endangered plant life as well as wild life. Its beautiful terrace farming is a sight to behold. Tesminyu, Japfu Peak, Dzukou Valley and Peren are the interesting tourist spots in Khonoma. The second highest peak of Nagaland that is about 3048 meters above sea level is one of the finest tourist attractions of Nagaland. The tallest rhododendron tree that features in the Guiness Book of Records is a great visual treat when it is in full bloom. The best time to trek along its terrains is from March to November. It is five hours of strenuous trekking along its steep slopes but it is worth all the trouble as the sight that greets you is worth preserving in your memory.

Tuophema Village, about 41 kms from Kohima is the model village chosen by the tourism department for promoting the Angami Sekkrenyi festival celebrated every year. It is a festival of purification where the village well is purified by village youths. After a night of vigilance the day after men take their bath in the purified water. The purified water is said to wash away diseases and misfortunes. For the rest of the day singing , dancing and festivities ensues. Tourism is very rampant in this ethnic village.

Wokha is another picturesque town of Nagaland. Home of the Lotha tribals, it is a land of superb oranges and pineapples. Set in the pretty hilltops among the scattered monoliths, it is a wonderful experience for trekkers while they climb the Mount Tiyi, the home of the departed souls. Visiting Wokha during the month of November will be great experience as you can revel in the Lotha festivities of thanksgiving, sharing and reconciliation participating in their vibrant dances and folk songs.

The Ao Nagas reside in the beautiful town of Mokokchung. From the Town Park it offers a panoramic view of Mokokchung. Moatsu and Tsungrem Mong are the festivals celebrated by the Aos in the first week of May and August. Longkhum village that lies 1846 above sea level consists of hardworking Aos who are skilled in handicrafts and handloom textiles. It is known as the resting place of the spirits of the dead on their way to the paradise. Ungma is another Ao village. You can catch a glimpse of the customs, traditions and folklores here.

Tuensang houses six tribes, Changs, Yimchungers, Khiamniungans, Shagtams, Phoms and Semas. It is rich in cultural heritage. One can enjoy their varied traditions and festivals here. Longtrok, Kiphere and Pungro are the important tourist spots of the village.

is the residence for the Konyaks known for their tattooed faces and muzzle loading guns of indigenous manufacturing. Centrally located for the coronations of the Mon Chiefs known as Anghs it is great to see them in traditional dresses and feathered headgears. Konyaks are skilled artisans. Excellent woodcarvings, daos, guns, gunpowder, head brushes, headgear, necklaces are made by these artisans and craftsmen. Shanghyu village and Longwa Village are the two most important villages of Mon.

This beautiful land of abundant natural beauty has immense tourist attraction. The ethnic tribes, their habitat, arts and handicrafts and the locales attract many. Log on to northeastindia.com to know about Tourist Attractions of Nagaland.