NAGALAND

Nagaland abounds in serene natural beauty and panoramic views of the mighty Himalayas. The distinctive highlight of this state is the Naga hills that run through it. The north-eastern corner of the country, it is blessed with salubrious climate throughout the year and provides the right ambience for a quiet getaway from the hustle and bustle of city life. Nature could not have been kinder to Nagaland, some times referred to as the ‘Switzerland of the East’, the exquisitely picturesque landscape, the vibrantly colourful sunrise and sunset, lush and verdant flare, this is a land that represents aberrant beauty, moulded perfectly for a breath-taking experience. Nagaland is an unexplored destination that offers a variety of tourist attractions that will leave everyone spellbound. It remained for long, almost a virgin territory - where few mortals from the outside world dared to tread. It is fast emerging, as a tourist destination. The state has it’s own distinctive cultural heritage steeped in tribal beliefs, traditions, superstitions, art and craft, folk-dances and music legends and myths.

Nagas belong to the Mongoloid group who migrated to this hilly region hundreds of years ago. The ethnicity of the state comprises of 16 different tribes and sub-tribes of Tibeto-Burmese origin that dwell in these exotic hills which can easily be distinguished by their colourful tribal outfits with intricately designed costume, jewellery and beads that they adorn and sometimes with bamboo shields sheathed in bear skin. Each of the major tribes has its own unique designs and colours. The present generation of Nagas have ventured into fashion designing in a big way, reproducing a fabric that represents the ancestral motifs blended with modern appeal. Indeed, it is a beautiful mix of the past with the present, a paradise for those who are in fashion designing. This is an affluent fashion station of east India.

Nagaland is also the home of some of the most colorful festivals. Singing, dancing and drinking of locally prepared rice beer mark the Naga festivals. Tribal dances of the Nagas give us an insight into the inborn reticence of these people. Nagas, by nature, are lovers of fun and frolic and there life is one long festival. With high cheek bones, almond eyes, sparkling teeth and bronzed skin, the Nagas are a handsome friendly people, warm hearted and extremely hospitable.

For the adventurous and intrepid holiday, Nagaland is an ideal place for trekking, rock climbing, jungle camping and offers limitless exploration possibilities in its lush and verdant sub-tropical rain forests which are also a treasure trove of a plethora of medicinal plants.

During the British rule in India, the Nagas were known for their extreme courage. During the end of the 19th century, the British, knowing the importance of the tribes here, had established a very good relationship with them. The Nagas later had proven to be the most useful help for the British in fighting and chasing away the Japanese who, during the war advanced up to the present-day capital of the state of Kohima.


KOHIMA

Situated at 1,500m above sea level, Kohima is one of the prettiest centres of the North-Eeast. The capital of Nagaland, a state that presents, perhaps, the most exotic tribal culture in the country, Kohima is truly representative of the state. The respective tribal festivals are celebrated at regular intervals in the city. This mountainous capital overlooking the valley enjoys a salubrious climate all round the year. Kohima has its own unique flavour as a hill resort.

Nagaland State Museum: The State Museum in Kohima showcases a rare collection of articles of different tribes which refers to the history and traditions of the Nagas.

Zoological Park: The zoo in Kohima has some rare species of animals and birds, including the rare Blythe's Tragopan.

Dimapur: Dimapur is a major commercial centre of Nagaland. Just 5 km away on the Dimapur - Kohima road is Ruzaphema, where a number of bazaars offer splendid tribal handicrafts.

Dzukou Valley: The Dzukou Valley lies to the south of Kohima at a distance of 30 km and at an attitude of 2,438m. Nature seems to be in her best mood, smiling, as shown by the tons of fully bloomed flowers including Lilies (white and yellow). This is one of the best trekking spots in the North-Eastern region.

Japfu Peak: An ideal place for trekking and scaling Japfu is located at an altitude of 3,048m above sea level and it provides a fabulous view of Kohima city.