NAGALAND
6 N / 7 D
Day 1: Arrival in Dimapur & Transfer to Kohima
Arrive at Dimapur Airport/Railway Station.
Drive to Kohima (2.5 - 3 hours).
Check in at the hotel and relax.
Explore local markets like Kisama Heritage Village and Naga Bazaar.
Overnight stay in Kohima.
Day 2: Kohima Sightseeing
Visit the Kohima War Cemetery (WWII Memorial).
Explore Kisama Heritage Village (Hornbill Festival venue).
Visit Catholic Cathedral (one of the largest in Northeast India).
Enjoy sunset at Puliebadze Viewpoint.
Overnight stay in Kohima.
Day 3: Excursion to Khonoma – India’s First Green Village
Travel to Khonoma Village (20 km from Kohima).
Visit Mithun Sanctuary and explore traditional Angami Naga homes.
Enjoy nature walks and trekking in the hills.
Return to Kohima and visit Naga Heritage Village.
Overnight stay in Kohima.
Day 4: Kohima to Mokokchung – Land of the Ao Nagas
Drive to Mokokchung (6-7 hours).
Visit Longkhum Village, known for Ao Naga traditions.
Explore Ungma Village, one of the oldest Ao Naga settlements.
Visit Mopungchuket Village for cultural insights.
Overnight stay in Mokokchung.
Day 5: Mokokchung to Mon – Land of the Konyak Warriors
Drive to Mon (7-8 hours), home of the Konyak tribe.
Visit Shangnyu Village, known for ancient wooden carvings.
Explore Longwa Village, where half the village is in India and half in Myanmar!
Meet the famous tattooed Konyak warriors.
Overnight stay in Mon.
Day 6: Mon to Tuensang – Tribal Heartland
Drive to Tuensang (6-7 hours), home to tribes like Chang, Khiamniungan, and Yimchunger.
Explore Changsangmongko & Tsadang villages.
Visit Noklak Village, known for tribal arts and crafts.
Overnight stay in Tuensang.
Day 7: Return to Dimapur & Departure
Drive back to Dimapur (7-8 hours).
Visit Triple Falls and Diezephe Craft Village (if time permits).
Drop at Dimapur Airport/Railway Station for departure.
Best Time to Visit Nagaland
✅ October to May – Pleasant weather for sightseeing and festivals.
✅ December – Experience the Hornbill Festival (1st-10th Dec) in Kohima.
Nagaland, located in the northeastern part of India, is known for its vibrant tribal culture, scenic landscapes, lush greenery, and rich history. If you're planning a tour of Nagaland without a fixed itinerary, here are some of the top destinations and experiences you can explore at your own pace:
Cultural and Historical Sites
Kohima
Kohima War Cemetery: A war memorial dedicated to soldiers who fought during World War II. It offers a peaceful environment and a glimpse into the history of the region.
Naga Heritage Village, Kisama: A cultural village that showcases the traditional lifestyle, culture, and crafts of the Naga tribes. The Hornbill Festival is held here every December, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Kohima Cathedral: A beautiful cathedral with stunning views of the city.
Dimapur
Kachari Ruins: Ancient ruins that are a reminder of the Kachari Kingdom, featuring stone carvings and pillars that date back centuries.
Nagaland Science Centre: A family-friendly attraction featuring various exhibits related to science and technology.
Dimapur Town: Known for its lively markets and local eateries, Dimapur is a great place to experience the local life and traditional Naga food.
Mon
Monyu Village: Explore the cultural traditions of the Konyak Naga tribe, famous for their distinctive facial tattoos and headhunting history.
Veda Peak: A beautiful spot offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and valleys, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Zunheboto
Sumi Naga Villages: Zunheboto is home to the Sumi tribe, and you can explore the villages to witness their culture, lifestyle, and vibrant festivals.
Lake View Park: A serene location offering a peaceful environment with beautiful views of the surrounding landscapes.
Tribal Culture and Villages
Mokokchung
Mokokchung Town: Known as the cultural and intellectual hub of Nagaland, Mokokchung is home to the Ao Naga tribe. Visit their villages to experience their unique traditions and lifestyle.
Chuchuyimlang Village: Famous for its traditional bamboo huts, this village offers insight into the Ao tribe's way of life.
Langpangkong Cave: A historical site associated with the Ao Naga people.
Peren
Peren Town: A small town with lush greenery and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a quiet retreat.
Peren District Villages: Explore the various tribal villages in the district, where you can interact with locals and learn about their unique customs.
Tseminyu
Tseminyu Villages: Known for their beautiful landscapes and vibrant Naga culture, the villages here offer a chance to experience rural life in Nagaland.
Ruzaphema Village: A village that showcases traditional Naga houses and is known for its stunning views.
Nature and Adventure
Dzukou Valley
A beautiful valley known for its picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and colorful wildflowers. It’s a popular destination for trekking and camping, especially during the spring and summer months.
Dzukou Valley Trek: A moderate-level trek offering breathtaking views of the valley and surrounding mountains.
Intangki Wildlife Sanctuary
A haven for nature lovers, the sanctuary is home to diverse flora and fauna, including elephants, bears, and various bird species. It’s a great place for nature walks and wildlife photography.
Mount Japfu
The second-highest peak in Nagaland, offering a challenging trek and panoramic views of Kohima and surrounding areas. The trek is famous for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.
Shilloi Lake
A serene, high-altitude lake surrounded by lush forests and hills, perfect for a relaxing getaway. The lake is considered sacred by the local tribes.
Festivals and Events
Hornbill Festival
Held annually in December, the Hornbill Festival is one of the most famous festivals in Nagaland. It celebrates the rich culture and traditions of the Naga tribes, featuring traditional dances, music, handicrafts, and local cuisines. It is held at the Naga Heritage Village near Kohima.
Sekrenyi Festival (Mokokchung)
Celebrated by the Ao Naga tribe in February, this festival marks the end of the winter season and involves rituals, prayers, and celebrations.
Moatsu Festival (Mokokchung)
Celebrated by the Ao tribe in May, the Moatsu Festival is a harvest festival that includes traditional dances, songs, and feasts.
Yemshe Festival (Zunheboto)
A festival celebrated by the Sumi Naga tribe to mark the end of the agricultural cycle, with feasting, dancing, and singing.
Adventure Activities
Trekking in Nagaland
Nagaland offers numerous trekking opportunities, including the popular treks to Dzukou Valley, Mount Japfu, and Mount Saramati (the highest peak in Nagaland).
Camping
Set up a camp at Dzukou Valley, Intangki Wildlife Sanctuary, or near Shilloi Lake for a peaceful experience in the lap of nature.
Fishing and River Activities
Nagaland has several rivers and streams that are perfect for fishing and other water activities. The Doyang River near Mokokchung is particularly known for its fishing opportunities.
Local Cuisine
Rice and Meat
Naga cuisine is known for its use of rice, meat (especially pork and beef), and traditional spices. You can try dishes like Smoked Pork, Axone (fermented soybean), and Pork with Bamboo Shoot.
Zutho
A traditional Naga rice beer made from fermented rice, often served during festivals and feasts.
Naga Chilies
Known for their fiery heat, Naga chilies are an essential part of the local cuisine and are used to spice up almost every dish.
Best Time to Visit
October to April: The best time to visit Nagaland is during the cooler months when the weather is pleasant for sightseeing and trekking. This period also coincides with many of the local festivals.
May to September: The monsoon season brings lush greenery to the region, but the heavy rains can make travel and trekking challenging.
Nagaland is a unique destination that offers a blend of rich culture, stunning landscapes, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're interested in exploring the tribal traditions, trekking through the hills, attending vibrant festivals, or simply relaxing in nature, Nagaland offers something for every traveler.