1. Pongo Village and Bhumyu Village

Pongo Village and Bhumyu Village has lots of thatched houses and cottages which give a rustic appeal to these villages. You can explore and wander around, meet the friendly villagers and click photographs plus enjoying the happy vibes of this place. The simple way of living and smiling children are sure to make you stop over at these villages and sit along with people or else enjoy eating with them, the Nagas are quite hospitable and welcoming in their nature and will make a great meal for you to enjoy the delicacies of Nagaland.

2. Dikhu River

Dikhu River’s tranquil and spellbinding charm is the most appealing things about this river which makes it a great picnic spot of every traveler exploring Nagaland. It streams through Mokokchung and Longleng and is a part of Brahmaputra’s tributaries. Winters are the best time to sit by the river and ponder over the charming landscape as the water level slows down and makes it a wonderful place to relax with your fellow travelers.

3. Zunheboto

Situated at a distance of 135 km from Longleng, Zunheboto is a famed location of Sumi Tribe. It is a warrior clan and is the known expert of martial art skills. You can visit this district during the middle of July when one of the most popular and colorful festival of Tuluni is celebrated. Ghosho Bird Sanctuary is one of the main attractions to do bird-watching and embrace the rich flora and fauna of this place. Further, go for boating at Lake Aizuto which is a beautifully natural endowment to this magnificent tourist spot.

4. Tuensang

Tuensang has an ancient appeal to it which will attract you to this tourist destination. Kiphire, Longleng and Tuensang together make the Eastern Nagaland and all of these three are magnificent in their own unique way. Tuensang has Noklak, Chansangmongko and Tsadang villages which have a glorious historical legacy to themselves and you can buy handicrafts and soak in the vibrant festivals of these villages. Longtrok and Chilise villages are also a must visit to know more about the rich history of this ancient district and the amazing panoramas of North-East will be there in your journey to let you ponder over the pristine charm of Nagaland.

5. Kiphire

Kiphire is an interesting treat located amidst the Saramati Mountain which is the utmost mountain of Nagaland. It is one of the perfect trekking spots and there are tons of locations where you can trek amidst the panoramic and picturesque beauty of this place. You can also go for jungle safari into the Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary of Kiphire and spot Himalayan Bear, wild boars and many other endangered species and the profound environment is just awe-inspiring. Camping and Rafting are the breathtaking endeavors this town offers to bring the adrenalin rush in you.

Longleng is one of the lesser-known tourist places of Nagaland and thus takes you away from the crowded tourist attractions and into an immaculate Wordsworthian landscape. So, if you have the wanderlust to know about the Nagaland’s tribes and historical legacy then Longleng is the point to begin from.

Happy Journey!

More Nagaland Attractions:

• Must Visit Places In Dimapur
• Must Visit Places In Kohima
• Must Visit Places In Kiphire

1. Fakhim Wildlife Sanctuary

This huge wildlife sanctuary covers an area of around 642 hectares. Fakhim Wildlife Sanctuary is home to many animals such as lions, wild buffaloes, leopards, mithun, tigers and hoolock gibbons. The geographical location of this sanctuary allows it to receive heavy rainfalls, as a result of which you can witness great vegetation. Sasi, Khasi Pine, Bogipoma, Gamari, Hollock, Bonsum, Amari, Uriam, Oaks, Alder, Nahor, and Kachna are some of the trees that can be found here. This sanctuary is an ideal place for the wildlife lovers as well as the nature lovers.

2. Saramati Peak

As mentioned earlier, the Saramati Peak is the highest peak of Nagaland going up to the height of 3826 m above sea level. This peak is covered with snow during the winters and offers amazing views throughout the year. Dense forests cover the mountain range. It has a diverse range of flora and fauna which includes a few rare species as well. Beautiful scenes can be seen from any given height of the peak. Apart from the dense forests, the mountain also has a number of orchids. People interested in trekking can undertake this three-day long trek during which they would pass a number of scenic villages as well.

3. Caves of Salomi

Located in the Salomi village, this cave is a nature’s wonder. It is said that these caves are not man-made and have come to existence with the blessings of mother nature. This cave is an excellent example of the architectural excellence of nature. It has a number of entry and exit points. The River Likimro also connects with the cave at one end. The surprises do not end here. A perfectly designed drainage system seems to be a part of the cave. A four feet hole is there in the cave’s floor where the villagers dump their waste. This waste comes out in the river after five to six days.

4. Caves of Mimi

The caves of Mimi lie in the Mimi village. One can reach there by walking for about an hour. These caves lie at an altitude of 300 – 400 feet.  There are four caves here and they are shelters to the wild animals and bats. These caves have too many bats and people often get terrified seeing such a large number of bats at once. The caves look beautiful in spite of everything. They are a must visit in Kiphire.

5. Sukhayap

Located at a distance of 5 km from Mimi, Sukhayap is also known as the Lover’s Paradise. It is a steep cliff that can be climbed with the help of a ladder. One can see the beauty of the lowlands from up there. The view is nothing less than a treat to one’s eyes.

The best time to visit Kiphire is between the months of October and March. If you love adventure or nature, you might not want to miss out on this stunning place. Kiphire might leave an imprint on your mind that would last a lifetime.

More Tourist Destinations In Nagaland:

• Popular Places In Dimapur
• Popular Places In Kohima
• Popular Places In Longleng

Climatic Conditions

Kohima has a moderate subtropical climate. This makes the area worth visiting all year round. Summers (June to August), which are the longest season, are hot and humid with very heavy rainfall. Winters (December to February) are mild and pleasant, with a slight chance at snowfall in the higher reaches.

Best Time To Visit

Due to the extremely high rainfall during summer and monsoon months, Kohima becomes best to visit in the other seasons, when the temperature is mild and the rainfall infrequent. During the months of October to May, that is, the autumn, winter and spring season, the area is in full bloom and the weather is pleasant enough to make for a wonderful vacation.

Attractions/ Things To Do

The areas in and around Kohima are extremely abundant in natural beauty, with lush green trees and various exotic species of birds and animals. One can also explore the area and interact with the locals to find out about the rich history and culture of this area. The most famous event here is the Hornbill Festival, an annual event that takes place in December and continues for one week. Named after a renowned indigenous bird, this festival was started in the year 2000 and takes place at Kisama, on the outskirts of Kohima. This festival celebrates the various tribes and communities living in Nagaland and the culture and arts of each. It comprises of various exciting events and activities such as a market selling local handicrafts, artwork, spices and medicine, demonstrations of indigenous games, traditions and performing arts including wrestling, fire-eating, music concerts, a film festival, a literature festival, car rallies and much more. Each year, tourists crowd here by the hundreds to witness this festival.

A beautiful War Memorial, dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Second World War is present in Kohima. The names of all the soldiers are etched into stone over here. There is also the grand Catholic Cathedral at Aradura Hill, one of the most important places of worship in North Eastern India. The Nagaland State Museum and the Zoological Park are worth visiting to understand the lives and culture of the local people. If one is looking for peace and tranquility amongst nature, one can visit the Kohima Village and the Japhu Peak, the second highest peak in Nagaland. Besides this, there are the Dzukou Valley and Dzulekie Stream, which are famous for their natural beauty.

How To Reach

The closest airport to Kohima is the Dimapur Airport, which is well connected to all neighboring and major cities by regular flights. The closest railway station is also in Dimapur. The best way to access Kohima is by road. Many private bus and taxi services are available which will take any tourist directly to Kohima. The city lies on the National Highways 2, 29 and 39.

Distance From Major Cities

• Dimapur – 68 kilometers
• Imphal – 137 kilometers
• Guwahati – 346 kilometers
• Kolkata – 1331 kilometers
• Delhi – 2233 kilometers
• Hyderabad – 2693 kilometers
• Ahmedabad – 2845 kilometers
• Chennai – 2967 kilometers
• Mumbai – 2999 kilometers
• Pune – 3020 kilometers
• Bangalore – 3283 kilometers

Accessibility And Accommodation

The city is very welcoming towards any tourists. There are various luxury hotels and resorts at exotic locations with excellent views of the surrounding areas. Besides this, there are also many budget hotels, lodges and homestays which offer all the amenities one may expect.

1. Chumukedima Village

Chumukedima Village is 8.2 km away from Sumi Town Baptist church and comprises of several waterfalls shedding crystal clear water. It is the district headquarters of Dimapur and is a census town. The village gives a panoramic view of the exotic city of Dimapur. This namesake village is a rapid growing urban hub of Nagaland. This village is at an almost 10 kilometres distance from Silchar railway station and 24 kilometres away from the headquarters of Dimapur. Local language of the village is English, which comes as a huge relief for foreign tourists. It experiences average temperatures and climate with a few storms during the monsoon period.

2. The Kachari Ruins

The Kachari Ruins are a group of ancient monoliths and contain remnants of the Kachari kingdom’s structure. It houses myriad temples, reservoirs and tanks and was named as the ‘Brick City’ by European scholars. It was the kingdom of Dimasa Kachari rulers during the medieval era and is a major tourist attraction now. This historic edifice houses the excavated tanks of the royalty and is an apt place for photo fanatics and history lovers. The territory was constructed near the sacred Mahu River and the Naga hills. The kingdom emphasizes on the cult of fertility.

3. Diezephe Craft Village

Diezephe is a crafts village with no entry fees and is open year round with no holidays at all. Weavers and craftsmen have been residing in this serene village since generations, making it a tremendously popular destination for its bamboo and cane works. It is 13 kilometres away from the city of Dimapur and is run by Nagaland craftworks and handlooms development and Nagaland government. This village is an ultimate spot to shop for friends and family members alike while simultaneously doing away with the typical souvenir shops.

4. Sumi Town Baptist Church

Sumi Town Baptist Church is located almost a kilometre away from the city of Dimapur. “The Children Music Festival” that it organizes is a huge hit among the locals and the visitors who feel lost in this divine place with mystic aura. It is built beautifully for worshipping Lord Jesus Christ. This church is one of the most sacred and religious places of Dimapur, Nagaland.

5. Nagaland Zoological Park

Nagaland zoological park is 6 kilometres away from the township and is spread in a total area of 176 hectares. It is extremely rich in flora and fauna. This park is also a home to the aquatic birds and is open on all weekdays except Monday. The entry fee is also very reasonable. It is an appropriate location for recreational activities and acts as a Conservation Centre for the entire North India with a vast multitude of birds, reptiles, mammals, medicinal herbs and trees.

The zoological park is the abode of various birds of the Himalayan region like Partridges, Parrotbill, Laughingthrush, Fulvetta and Nuttatch. There are almost 500 species of birds alone in the region. The park is mostly covered with Evergreen forests with traces of temperate forests in bits and pieces. This affluent biodiversity is the pride of Nagaland and Dimapur alike.

The path that leads to Dimapur tears the fields apart in such a way that every broken piece appears magnificent in its own way. This place will make you ponder that sometimes lazing on the grass on a summer afternoon and listening to the murmur of water, or watching clouds float by is by no means, a waste of time.

Also Checkout These Hot Destinations In Nagaland:

• Top Places To Visit In Kohima
• Top Places To Visit In Kiphire
• Top Places To Visit In Longleng

1. Japfu Peak

Towering at a height of 3048 meters above sea level, Japfu Peak is crowned as the second highest peak in Nagaland. Situated at 15 km south of Kohima, this peak is a paradise for trekking lovers and attracts numerous visitors throughout the year. The trekking experience up to Japfu Peak is a breathtaking experience. The panoramic view of the valley from the top of the peak is a treat for photography connoisseurs. The entire valley of Japfu Peak is covered with lush green forest and wild flowers. This peak is a refuge to the 130 ft tall giant Rhododendron tree, one of the tallest tress of the world. With mist covered forests and splendid scenic beauty, Japfu is one of the best places to visit in Kohima. October to May is the best time to plan a holiday trip to the Japfu Peak, Kohima.

2. Dzükou Valley

Photo by Mongyamba, CC BY-SA 3.0

If you dreamt of walking through picturesque valleys covered with exotic wild flowers, encircled by mystic green hills, Dzukou valley is the right place for you. Located at a height of nearly 8000ft above sea level-just behind Japfu peak, the splendid Dzükou valley offers one of the best trekking experiences. The entire valley gets covered with variety of multi-colored flowers like euphorbia, rhododendrons, aconitum, and lilies in spring. Popularly known as the ‘The Valley of Flower’, Dzükou derives its name from a Mao word that means ice cold water. The valley has several seamlessly flowing streams of water that freezes in winter. Located nearly 30 km away from Kohima, this valley has enriched flora and fauna, natural caves and green forests, making it an ideal destination for camping. The best time to visit the beautiful valley is June to September. With its emerald green hills, dense forest, swirling streams and tranquility, Dzükou makes a must visit holiday destination in Kohima.

3. War Cemetery

Photo by PP Yoonus, CC BY-SA 3.0

If you are interested in history, a visit to the Kohima War Cemetery will be a worthwhile experience for you. This cemetery is dedicated to the 1,420 soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Second World War against the Japanese. During the war, these brave hearts had heroically blocked the Japanese soldiers at the border of India. This cemetery is located near Kohima city centre, on the northern side of Imphal-Dimapur highway. The cemetery is open for visitors on weekdays. The Kohima War Cemetery is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.

4. Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary

Situated at a distance of 37 km from Dimapur, the Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary conserves several rare species of plants, birds and animals like barking deer, flying squirrel, mithun (gayal), wild dog, sloth bear, tiger etc. Spread over an area of 200 sq km, Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary is surrounded with lush green forest and mountains. The main attraction of this forest is Hoolock Gibbon, the only species of ape found in India. Though the forest can be visited anytime of the year, the best time to make a trip to Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary is from November to February. Besides, various types of animals you can find rare species of birds like hornbill, Green Pigeon, black stork etc in this forest.

5. Khonoma Village

Located just 20 km away from Kohima, Khonoma is a small village that bears the remembrance of the enriched heritage and cultural legacy of Nagaland. This Angami tribe village holds an important place in the history of Nagaland. The brave warriors of Nagaland who had fought with invaders to protect their motherland, used to live at Khonoma village. The traditional entrance gate of Khonoma speaks about the sacrifice of the villagers to save their land from the foreign intruders. You can find several memorials in the village built in the honor of those fighters who sacrificed their lives for the betterment of the village. Surrounded by dense green mountains and endowed with scenic beauty, this village attracts tourists across the world. Every tourist spot of Khonoma reflects the old glory of Nagaland.

Kohima is one of the few places that are still untouched from the modern commercialization and human activities. With all its amazing panorama, gushing streams, exotic wildlife and picturesque valleys, Kohima is undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Nagaland.

Don’t Miss These Tourist Destinations In Nagaland:

• Top Tourist Places In Dimapur
• Top Tourist Places In Kiphire
• Top Tourist Places In Longleng

1. Kohima

Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, is one of the leading attractions in the state. Located at a height of 1500 m above sea level, Kohima has picturesque views to offer. Trekkers will love the place as there is enormous scope for trekking and camping. Here are the top destinations in Kohima.

• Japfu Peak
• Dzukou Valley
• Shilloi Lake
• State Museum
• World War II Cemetery

2. Dimapur

Dimapur serves as the main entry point into Nagaland. This is also the commercial center of the state. While nature lovers are enthralled by the scenic landscape of the place, history lovers are attracted to the 10th century Kachari ruins found here. Given below are some of the leading destinations here.

• Chumukedima Village
• Dimapur Jain Temple
• The Kachari Ruins
• Diezephe Craft Village
• Sumi Town Baptist Church
• Nagaland Zoological Park

3. Mokokchung

Mokokchung, considered the cultural and intellectual capital of Nagaland, is one of the most important districts in the state. Picturesque hills and the musical sounds of the streams running mesmerize you. This traditional land gets vibrant with activity during the festival seasons. Though most of the Aos, the tribes, have converted to Christianity, they retain the essence of their tribal features. Here are some leading destinations in Mokokchung.

• Changkikong Range
• Langpangkong Caves
• Fusen Kei and Mongzu Ki Caves
• Changtongya
• Mokokchung Village

4. Wokha

To have an insight of rural life, you need to be at Wokha, the homeland to Lotha tribe. The land abounds in fruits like pineapples, oranges and plums and the best part of it is that they are grown using organic methods and hence free of pesticides. Nature lovers will love strolling along the paths that lead to the forests around. Here are some top destinations in Wokha.

• Mount Tiyi
• Tehurang Valley
• Baghty Valley
• Doyang River
• Doyang Hydro Project

5. Mon

Situated at 897.64 m altitude above sea level, Mon, is one of the most mystic places in Nagaland that boasts of rich tribal heritage. Its geographical location, being situated at the northeastern part of the state, adds to its mystic appeal. The place is nature lovers’ delight as the landscapes are spectacular. One of the best views is the Assam plains viewed from here. You would love visiting the following tourist attractions in Mon.

• Veda Peak
• Shangnyu Village
• Naganimora
• Chui Village
• Longwa Village

6. Phek

Rich in flora and fauna, Phek boasts of scenic landscapes. Considering the fact that evergreen forests occupy over 70% of Phek, you cannot expect anything short of stunning natural beauty right? Majestic mountains and picturesque lakes just take your breath away. Here are some top destinations in Phek.

• Zanibu Peak
• Dzudu Lake
• Pfutsero
• Peripheries of Pfutsero Town
• Shilloi Lake

7. Kiphire

Overlooking Mountain Sabarmati, the highest Peak in Nagaland, lies Kiphire, the small town of Kiphire district. Kiphire has some of the best awe-inspiring landscapes. To its east is Myanmar. Adventure seekers can have a whale of a time here indulging in trekking, canoeing and rafting. Here are the top destinations in Kiphire.

• Saramati Peak
• Caves of Salomi
• Caves of Mimi
• Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary
• Wawade Waterfall

The mesmerizing beauty of Nagaland makes you want to return. I too hope to return soon and on my next visit, I intend to explore further. I would appreciate suggestions on more tourist destinations from those of you who had the opportunity of traveling to the land that has the best nature has to offer.