Nagaland

Nagaland is a small hilly state in northeast India. This mountainous region is home to a tribal population with traditional Naga culture. The colorful and intricately designed costumes, jewelry and beads that they wear distinguish each of the tribes.
A large portion of Nagaland is under the cover of palms, bamboo and rattan as well as timber and mahogany forests. A large population of wildlife is found within the borders of Nagaland including rhinoceroses, porcupines, elephants, leopards, deer, oxen and buffaloes.

Related Attractions

Kohima, India

Kohima is the hilly capital of Nagaland, it is located at the foot of the mountain. The population of Kohima consists of all of the 16 tribes of Nagaland. The main indigenous inhabitants are the Angamis and Aos.
The central market in Kohima is a colorful place where tribal people sell delicacies such as insect grub and curried dog meat.
The climate in Kohima is moderate with pleasant weather year-round. The higher altitudes experience snowfall occasionally and the rainfall during summer can be heavy.
The Battle of Kohima occurred in 1944 when the Japanese lost to the Allies. Kohima has a large cemetery, which lies on the slopes of Garrison Hill and was the scene of intense fighting. The cemetery was built for the allied war dead and is maintained by the Commonwealth Graves Commission.

Bara Bastil, Kohima

Bara Basti is a village within Kohima that offers an intimate glimpse into traditional Naga life. The traditional Naga ceremonial gateway to Bara Basti is carved with motifs of guns, warriors and symbols of prosperity.
The traditional homes of Bara Basti feature crossed 'horns' on the gables, carved heads to signify the status of the family, and a huge basket in front of the house to hold the grain. Residents have erected status pillars in front of their houses as a memorial to the grand feasts of merit arranged by their ancestors.

State Museum

The State Museum in Kohima presents fascinating aspects of Naga tribal life through exhibits of ancestral weaponry, carved gateposts, status pillars as well as traditional Naga costumes and jewelry.
Various rare and interesting artifacts represent the different tribes, which inhabit the state of Nagaland.
The basement of the State Museum features animals and birds from the North Eastern states of India.

Dimapur, India

Dimapur is the largest city in Nagaland and an important commercial center. Dimapur is an important railhead and home to the only airport in Nagaland.
It was once the capital of the Kachari kingdom although very little remains. There are some blocks of stone and brick with carved symbols housed in a park. Ruins of temples, embankment and tanks as well as a monolith provide some insight into megalithic culture.
Dimapur is considered the gateway to Nagaland and is also an important military center. There are numerous shopping centers and many restaurants that serve Indian, Chinese and Naga delicacies.

North East Zone Cultural Center

The North East Zone Cultural Center has a small museum containing tribal artifacts and offers cultural programs throughout the State of Nagaland.
The cultural heritage of the northeast region of India is highlighted. Folk art, performing arts and other traditional art forms provide a mosaic of cultures.