Do you want to get out of the concrete jungle and go on an adventure? The wild lands of Nagaland call in for a mesmerizing experience to travel enthusiasts. The dewy hills, scenic beauty and the dynamic Naga tribes will make your stay an outstanding memory. It’s not fully developed and hence you will find the authentic tribal lifestyle even today. Here, you can get up close and personal with the tribal culture who welcome the tourists with their music, dance, attire and art work.
The breathtaking view of the valleys, exquisite green landscape and a rustic terrain makes Nagaland a dream destination. Its top places to explore are Dimapur, Kohima, Kaiphire, and Mokokchung.
In order to reach Nagaland you can take flights to Dimapur, which is the only airport here or you can take the trains which halt at Dimapur. The rest of Nagaland is connected by the State Transport. There are frequent buses from Dimapur to Guwahati, Shgillong and Mokokchung.
It is known as the “City of River People”. Out of all the other cities in Nagaland Dimapur is the most advanced and industrialized city. You can enjoy the beautiful view of Chumukedima or go shopping at Ruzaphema for handicrafts. You can also witness the ruins of the Kachari civilization. A Wednesday market is near the ruins where you can shop for authentic Naga produce.
The ruins of Kachari civilization at Dimapur
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The other famous attraction here is the Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary which is preserved by the Forest Wildlife Department. It is a home to the some rare species of birds and is blessed with rich flora and fauna. If you are lucky you can spot the Hoolock Gibbon too.
Witness a mother’s love at the Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary
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It is a 3 hour drive from Dimapur but if you are in haste you can take a 30 minute helicopter ride. Kohima is filled with a bounty for nature lovers. It is the capital city of Nagaland and is a home to Angami, Rengma, Kuki and Zeliang Naga tribes. You can explore the beautiful religious monuments, museums and colorful villages. Apart from these, other attractions like War Cemetery, Cathedral and Zoological Park are also worth visiting. If you wish to enjoy nature to its fullest the Dzukou Valley is an ideal spot to go on a trek which blossoms during the spring. The valley smells divine with its fragrant blooms in different colors. Also the Hornbill Festival is held here every first week of December.
The beautiful landscape of Dzukou Valley
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The colorful Hornbill Festival
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It is a holy grail for tourists with its mind boggling attractions like Saramati peak which is the highest peak of Nagaland, Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary, Caves at Salomi and Mimi, Sukhayap also known as “Lover’s Paradise”. Other attractions here are the Wawade Falls, Twin Stones and Mikhi known as river of salt.
Spot the majestic tiger at Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary
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The famous attraction of this city is the Moatsu Festival which is held in the first week of May every year. The festival is hosted by the Ao tribe who reside in a village called Chuchuyimlang which is situated on a hill top. The view from here is simply heavenly.
Live on the edge at Chuchuyimlang village
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Nagaland is an apt spot for adventure junkies who wish to explore nature’s goodness. The virgin terrains and wild blossoms make it a delightful experience. For entry one has to take special permission from the State authorities. Foreigners need to acquire Restricted Area Permit before entering certain territories.
Story compiled with inputs from:
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