Nagaland, a vibrant hill state is located on the extreme northeastern end of India. The state is bounded by Myanmar in east,Assam in west,Arunanchal Pradesh and some parts of Assam in north and Manipur in south. Kohima is the capital and Dimapur is the largest city of Nagaland. Sprawling across the area of 16,579 km², the state is one of the smallest states of India. Born on 1st December 1963, the state is divided into 11 districts. Nagaland is a mountainous state with agriculture is the main occupation of the people of Nagaland. Mount Saramati is the highest peak of the state. Doyang and Diphu in the north, Barak in the southwest and Chindwin in the southeast are the major rivers of the state. Christianity is the main religion of Nagaland and about 90% people follow this religion. People of Nagaland speak 60 different dialects belonging to the Sino- Tibetan family of languages. Angami, Ao, Chakhesang, Chang, Khiamniungan, Kuki etc are the main tribes of Nagaland. The state has a rich flora and fauna and about one sixth of the state is covered with forests. The state has largely monsoon climate with high humidity levels. Summers are not very scorching while the winters are chilly. One can visit any time at this beautiful state of India. So plan a trip to Nagaland where the peoples are lovers of fun and the life is a one long festival.
Places of Interest in Nagaland :
Nagaland sums up steep hills, rolling slopes of green carpeted valleys, fun loving exotic tribes, rich flora and fauna, palaces, churches and monasteries. There is so much to see on a trip to Nagaland. Some of the major tourist attractions of Nagaland are:
Kohima Village
World War II Cemetery
Shangnyu Village
Japfu Peak
Treasures of Nagaland:
One of the biggest tourist attraction in Ngaland is its tribes. There different customs, folklores and festivals re the main treasure of this state. There are 16 tribes that live in Ngaland and have their own unique customs, traditions and cultural heritage.
How to Reach Nagaland
By Air: Nagaland has its own domestic Airport at Dimpur, which is regularly serviced by major Airlines. Nagaland is linked with other major cities like Guwahati and Kolkata by air. Important destinations of Nagaland are also accessible from Dimapur.
By Rail: The railway network in the state is minimal. The major railhead in Nagaland is at Dimapur which is linked with Guwahati. Guwahati is a gateway that linked it to the other major north eastern states of India.
By Road: A good network of roads cover the state. The state capital is linked to Shilong and Guwahati which is the important cities in northeastern India. Other major cities of Nagaland are linked to Kohima by road.
Best time to visit Nagaland:The main thing that attract visitors towards Nagaland is its pleasant climate that remains there throughout the year. The best time to visit the state is from October to May. So plan a trip one can visit Nagaland throughout the year.
Tourist Attractions of Nagaland
Tucked away in the remote northeast corner of India, Nagaland comprises exotic green lush valleys, snow capped mountains, evergreen forests and ethnic tribes. It offers a great escape from the hustle and bustle of city life .The pristinely beautiful state is a cocoon of natural wealth. Nagaland has something for everyone. Some of the major tourist attractions in Nagaland that worth a visit include:
Kohima: The capital city of Nagaland offers the breathtaking panoramic views of Naga Hills that worth a visit. The town is a witness of fierce battle of world war-II and has a war cemetery dedicated to them. The other major attraction is Barra Basti which is the second largest village of Asia. The State Museum and the Catholic Cathedral are the other important destinations of the city.
Japfu Peak: Situated about 15 Km south of Kohima , Japfu Peak is the second highest peak in Nagaland which is about 3048m above the sea level. To watch the sun rise from its peak is a lifetime experience for the visitors. In the Japfu ranges one can even find rhododendron tree which is the tallest tree featured in the Guinness Book of World Records. From Japfu peak one can have mind blowing views of Dziikou Valley.
Dimapur: Dimapur is the main commercial city and a gateway to Nagaland. It is well developed city which is connected with all modes of transportation. This beautiful town was the capital of ancient Kacharis. It is the only place in Nagaland that does not require Inner Line Permit (ILP) but one needs the Restricted area Permit to go beyond the city.
The Dzukou Valley: Situated behind the Japfu Range and about 30 Km from Kohima is situated the picturesque valley that is a paradise for trekkers. The beautiful land is abundant with natural beauty that bursts into a valley of flowers in the months of June and September. The swirling stream freezes during the winters covering the entire valley with snow flakes which is retreat for the eyes is the major tourist attraction for visitors.
Dzulekie: If you are looking for an escape from the mundane city life then Dzulekie is a perfect destination for you. This mesmerizing beauty is 40 Km west of Kohima and is 2,133.6 m above the sea level. Another interesting feature that is the major tourist attraction is Dzulekie stream that flow deep and narrow gorge making it look as though the stream has gone underground at places makes it a visual retreat for the visitors.