Nagaland, a narrow strip of mountain territory, lies east of Assamand west of Burma. This predominantly tribal state is blessed with great valleys, meandering streams, high mountains, deep gorges and a rich variety of flora & fauna. It is the only state which has English as the official state language.

It is only in Nagalnd, that you will see the multicoloured spears, ceremonial daos, bracelets, chest plates and head dress of coloured bamboo.the state is mainly inhabited by 16 groups of the Tibeto-Burman tribes whose arms are as colourful and varied as their dresses.

The first building at the entrance of a typical Naga village is known as Morung, or boy,s dormitory. It is also for storing the weapons and displaying trophies and prizes of war. The villages are generally situated on hill tops and rides protected by stone walls. The Nagas are wonderful musicians, singers and dancers, with a great sense of rhythm which dominates traditional and contemporary music.

Entry Formilities
Domestic tourists visiting Nagaland require obtaining Inner Line Permits issued by the Deputy Resident Commissioner at Nagaland House, Delhi, Calcutta and Assistant Resident Commissioner, Shillong; Additional Deputy Commissioner, Dimapur; Deputy Commissioner, Kohima and Deputy Commissioner, Mokokchung. A permit fee os Rs. 5.00 is realised from each applicant. All foreign tourist desiring to visit Nagaland require Restricted Area Permits from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, South Block, New Delhi.

Excursions

Khonoma
Around 10 kms. From kohima, is situated the village of Khonoma, that abounds in stories of valour and courage. The terraced fields which produce 20 types of paddy at different elevations, present a beautiful view. The Khonoma gate relates the story of British infiltration into Naga Hills.

Dzukou Valley
One of the best trekking spots in the north-east region is the Dzukou Valley, situated at an altitude of 2,438.4 mtrs. above sea level, behind japfu peak and 30 kms. To the south of Kohima. The entire valley is over-shadowed with a type of tough bamboo brush which makes the place appear like a mowed lawn. White and yellow lilies and numerous other flowers adorn the valley in summers, while rhododendrons ornament the hills surrounding the valley.

Japfu Peak
From Kohima the Japfu Peak is Situated at an altitude of 3,048 mtrs. above sea level, 15 kms.. It is the second highest peak of kohima and ideally suited for trekking and scaling. The sight of Kohima from here is enchanting. Mokokchung and Zunheboto, situated 160 and 150 kms. Respectively from Kohima are the picturesque is a cultural centre of the Ao Nagas.

Wildlife in Nagaland
Nagalnd is proud of its rich wild life. Each sanctuary is different than the other in terms of variety and scenic beauty. The Fakim Sanctuary close to the Myanmar borders receives high rainfall and is inhabited by tigers and Hoolock gibbons. Among the birdlife, the tragopan pheasant is a bird watchers delight Ringed in 9 sq. kms. area the Pulie Badze Sanctuary also lies in the proximity of Kohima.

Fairs and Festivals of Nagaland
Nagaland have been known to the other states and outside India by their ethnic tribal culture. All the distinctive features turns into a feast whenever the religious, spiritual and musical aspects of each festival comes into play. The variety of festivals is due to the existence of various tribes in the state.

Sekreyi
The festival of Sekreyi is celebrated in the month of February by the Angami tribals. The ten-day festival is also called Phousanyi by the Angamis.

Aoling Monyu
By the end of March, Aoling Monyu festival is celebrated by the Konyaks tribe and it stretches for six days. The festival marks the end of winter of the previous year and heralds the New Year beginning with spring.

Moatsu
The Aos observe Moatsu after the sowing is done. Stretching over a period of six days, the festival is marked by vigorous merry-making after the hard labour of farming.

Naknyulum
Celebrated during the first week of July, Naknyulum is the festival of the Chang Nagas celebrated for a period of six days. The Chang decorate their houses with a special kind of tree, the Ngunam.

Tuluni
The Tuluni is held in the month of July and is the most important festival of the Semas. The festival is marked by the prayers and offerings to Litsaba - the deity of fruitfulness who gives life and protection to the crops.

Tsokum
The Khiamgans celebrate the festival of Tsokum in the month of October, which is also associated with harvesting.

Amongmong
"The Yimchungers celebrate the Metemneo festival after the millet crop is harvested. This festival is dedicated mainly for the souls of the departed.

Tokhu Emong
Tokhu Emong is celebrated by the Lothas once the harvesting is over and the granaries are full.

Metemneo
"The Yimchungers celebrate the Metemneo festival after the millet crop is harvested. This festival is dedicated mainly for the souls of the departed.

Access

By Air
Dimapur, the only airport in Nagaland, is connected by air to Delhi and Kolkata and rest of the country.

By Rail
Dimapur, the important Railhead in Nagaland, is on the main line of North – Eastern Frontier Railway.

By Road
All important towns and villages in the State are connected by the roads. There is a Transport service from Dimapur to Guwahati, Shillong, Mokokchung.