Nagaland is a hilly state in northeastern India, sharing a border with Myanmar. It is home to many indigenous tribes, and its festivals and markets celebrate their unique cultures. Kohima, the capital city, witnessed intense fighting during World War II, and this history is remembered at the Kohima War Cemetery. The Nagaland State Museum displays ancient weapons, ceremonial drums, and other cultural artifacts from the Naga tribes. Kohima also has several churches, including the Mary Help of Christians Church, which is designed like a Naga house. Nearby, the Angami villages of Khonoma and Kisama Heritage Village offer a glimpse into traditional life, with Kisama hosting the annual Hornbill Festival.
In Dimapur, you can explore the Kachari Ruins, remnants of the ancient Dimasa Kachari Kingdom, as well as waterfalls like the Triple Falls. Mokokchung, to the northeast of Dimapur, is known for its Ao Naga villages and its popularity as a travel destination.
places to visit in Nagaland
Dzukou Valley
Dzukou Valley is a beautiful valley located on the border of Nagaland and Manipur. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, with seasonal flowers and rich flora and fauna. The valley is a popular destination for nature lovers and trekkers due to its serene environment and diverse plant life.
Kohima War Cemetery
The Kohima War Cemetery honors British and Indian soldiers who lost their lives during World War II, especially in the Battle of Kohima against the Japanese. This battle took place from April 4 to June 22, 1944. The cemetery is a significant site for remembering those who sacrificed their lives for freedom.
Kachari Ruins
The Kachari Ruins in Dimapur are ancient remnants of the Dimasa Kachari civilization. These ruins consist of dome-shaped pillars and date back to the 10th century. They provide a glimpse into the rich history of Nagaland and are a key archaeological site in the region.
Diezephe Craft Village
Diezephe Craft Village, located near Dimapur, is known for its skilled artisans. The village is famous for its weaving techniques, and visitors can see and purchase traditional handmade crafts. It’s a great place to learn about the craftsmanship of Nagaland’s local artisans.
Ruzaphema Market
Ruzaphema Market, located 5 km from Kohima on the Dimapur-Kohima road, is a bustling shopping hub in Nagaland. The market is famous for its vibrant bazaars, offering a wide variety of cottage industries and handicrafts. It’s a must-visit for those interested in unique Naga souvenirs.
Ungma
Ungma is a historic village located 10 km south of Mokokchung. It’s one of the oldest Ao Naga villages and holds great cultural significance. The village is known for its rich folklore, customs, and traditions, making it an important tourist spot to learn about the Ao Naga heritage.
Mount Tiyi
Mount Tiyi is a mystical peak located in Wokha district, standing at 1969 meters above sea level. The mountain is surrounded by local legends, including beliefs about a garden of the dead, an entrance to the land of souls, and a spring of death. It is a place of cultural significance and natural beauty.
Mount Totsu
Mount Totsu, also known as the “Grand Canyon of Nagaland,” is an adventurous destination for trekking and camping. It is surrounded by dense tropical forests and vertical cliffs. Local legends say that the mountain is protected by a lady spirit, giant crabs, and pythons, adding to its mystique.
Phek Waterfall
Phek Waterfall is a beautiful natural spot located in a lush forest. It requires a little trekking to reach, but the journey is worth it. The waterfall is a peaceful place to visit with family and friends, offering a great spot for relaxation amidst nature.
Glory Peak
Glory Peak stands at an elevation of 2,600 meters and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. From this peak, on clear days, you can catch a distant view of Mount Everest, making it a spectacular destination for hikers and adventure seekers.
Top destinations in Nagaland
Kohima
Kohima is the capital of Nagaland, a hilly state in northeastern India, bordered by Myanmar. Originally called Kewhira, it was founded in 1878 when the British set up their headquarters in the Naga Hills. Kohima became the capital when Nagaland was made a state in 1963. It is home to the Angami Naga tribe and is located at the foothills of the Japfu range, with an elevation of about 1261 meters.
Dimapur
Dimapur is the largest city in Nagaland. In ancient times, it was the capital of the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom. The name Dimapur comes from the Dimasa language, where ‘Di’ means “water,” ‘ma’ means “large,” and ‘pur’ means “city,” translating to “Big-river-city.” Dimapur is the gateway to Nagaland, with the state’s only railhead and functional airport.
Mokokchung
Mokokchung is a town in the Mokokchung district of Nagaland, known as the cultural center of the Ao people. It is the most important urban area in northern Nagaland, after Dimapur and Kohima. The town has 16 wards, with Kumlong, Sangtemla, Alempang, and Yimyu being the largest. Mokokchung is famous for its vibrant celebrations, such as Christmas, New Year, Moatsu, and Tsungremong. Historically, it was one of the first places where the British set up outposts in the late 19th century.
Wokha
Wokha district, known as “the land of plenty” due to its rich resources and fertile soil, is located at an important geographical point. It borders Assam to the west, Kohima and Dimapur to the south, Zunheboto to the east, and Mokokchung to the northeast. Wokha means “headcount” in the Lotha dialect and is divided into three ranges: Upper, Middle, and Lower, each covering different circles of the district.
Mon
Mon is a town in the Mon district of Nagaland, historically known for the practice of headhunting. The district is now referred to as the “Land of Anghs,” with “Angh” meaning chieftain. It is a place rich in culture and tradition, attracting visitors interested in learning about its unique history.
Phek
Phek is a small town in Nagaland, surrounded by beautiful hills, lakes, and villages. The area is known for its natural beauty, which makes it a popular spot for travelers looking for a peaceful and picturesque destination. The village culture and scenic landscapes make Phek a hidden gem of Nagaland.
Kiphire
Kiphire is located in the Saramati Mountains and offers stunning views of nature. It is an ideal location for adventure enthusiasts, with activities like rafting, trekking, and canoeing available. The Saramati Mountains, the highest peak in Nagaland, are located here, making Kiphire a perfect spot for trekkers.
Best Time to Visit Nagaland
Nagaland experiences a subtropical highland climate. Summer temperatures range from 16°C to 31°C, typically from May to July. Winter temperatures fall between 4°C and 24°C. The monsoon season, from June to early September, brings heavy rainfall.
Best Time to Visit:
- Summer (May – July): 16°C to 31°C
- Winter (October – February): 4°C to 24°C
- Monsoon (June – September): Heavy rains, not ideal for travel
| Season | Temperature | Best Time to Visit |
|---|---|---|
| Summer | 16°C to 31°C | May to July |
| Winter | 4°C to 24°C | October to February |
| Monsoon | Heavy rains | June to September (not ideal) |
