Nagaland is a feast for the senses. Whether you are a solo traveller or one to travel with friends and family, this is one destination that will never disappoint you.
We’ve picked out a list of the most exciting experiences and activities that could make your Nagaland vacation awesome-er than it normally would be.
1. Get a dose of Naga culture at the Hornbill Festival
If you haven't fixed your dates yet, then plan your trip to Nagaland in the first week of December. This is when the world-famous Hornbill Festival takes place at the Naga Heritage Village.
The misty valley comes alive and the rich Naga culture is on full display during these 10 days.
Related: Hornbill Festival: All you need to know about Nagaland’s biggest festival
You get to see the best of indigenous crafts, local sports such as archery and wrestling, and traditional performances. Stop and listen to the powerful rhythms of warrior log drums in sequestered Nagaland.
2. Trek to Japfu Peak
During the monsoon months, Dzukou Valley drapes itself in a colourful carpet of lilies, euphorbias and rhododendrons. Trek for five hours through the valley to reach Japfu Peak in the morning. Standing on the second highest peak in Nagaland, witness a stunning sunrise and savour panoramic views of the valley. Up for another challenge? Make Mount Saramati your next target..
Related: 7 Places to Trek in Nagaland
3. Tour the Nagaland villages
Although there is much to explore in Kohima, there is life beyond the capital city too. Ruzaphema has colourful bazaars stocking a wide range of tribal handicrafts.
A few kilometres further away from Kohima are Khonoma’s terraced fields that produce a wide variety of paddy. Mokokchung is a quaint little town with flowing streams and scenic hills.
Related: Visiting Khonoma: India's 1st Green Village
Stay back to celebrate their main festivals of Aos-Moatsu and Tsungremmong. In the wondrous village of Jakhama, you’ll see houses with walls that are still riddled with bullet marks of WW II.
4. Feast on authentic Naga delicacies
Every day is a food fest in Nagaland — on your plate can be snails, frogs, dog meat or bamboo fungus. Almost everything that crawls or moves can be found in a Naga kitchen, slowly roasting on a fire.
Related: Naga pork with bamboo shoot
On a chilly winter evening, a sumptuous platter of smoked meat pickle, slow cooked pork curry with bamboo shoots, and rice is soothing, to say the least. Beware of the super-fiery Naga chillies though.
5. Shop for Indigenous Arts and Crafts
Nagaland is famous for bamboo artifacts such as mugs, bowls, mats and intricately-carved showpieces. Pick up bamboo carving work as souvenirs and even traditional fabrics in Naga weave and beadwork.
Related: A Day at Diezephe Craft Village, Nagaland
Take a walk to the Diezephe Craft Village for indigenous wood carving and cane work. At this traditional hamlet, you can also experience local art, culture and craftsmanship.
