Nagaland

Nagaland is a small state in the north eastern part of the country. Strategically located, Nagaland shares international border with Myanmar to its east. The state is bound by Assam in the north west, Arunachal Pradesh in the north east and Manipur in the south. The variations in altitude, latitude, climate and soil have given an unique diversity to the state. Full of natural beauty, Nagaland also has a rich variety of flora and fauna. Bamboo groves are found in abundance in the state. The hill slopes are full of oak, chestnut, birch, magnolia, cherry, maple, laurel and fig. At altitudes between 3000 and 4000 feet, pine trees grow in large numbers. Orchids could be seen in full bloom during April and May. Many varieties of wild vegetables, roots, fruits, and tubers also grow in the soil of Nagaland. With a pleasant climate, Nagaland is the ideal tourist destination for lovers of nature.

The Buranjis, the chronicles of Ahom rulers of Assam throw a lot of light on early history of Nagas. The first Ahom king Sukapha had engaged the Nagas in the Patkai hills. Thereafter, he entered Assam through Naga territory. The British had to sweat a lot to bring the belligerent Nagas under the control of the Raj. Though Kohima was established headquarters of Naga hills way back in 1878, the whole of Nagaland could be brought under British control only in the early 20th century. After independence, Nagaland was granted statehood on 31 December, 1963.

Kohima, the capital of Nagaland is a picturesque hill station yet to be discovered fully by tourists. The World War II cemetery of Kohima reminds the sacrifices made by the soldiers during that period. The Catholic Cathedral of Kohima is an important landmark and one of the biggest

cathedrals of the entire eastern region. The State museum of Nagaland has an impressive collection of various traditional Naga items. Khonoma, on the outskirts of Kohima, is a place where the Naga ancestors waged many courageous battles to protect their honour. Dzukou Valley is one of the best trekking spots in the whole of north east. It is located 30 kms to the south of Kohima. Dimapur is the most important commercial centre of Nagaland where one can also see the last relics of the Kachari kingdom. Ruzaphema is popular for exquisite variety of handicrafts. The place is full of colourful markets. Close to the Nagaland-Myanmar border is Fakim wildlife sanctuary inhabited by tigers and hoolock gibons. Pulie Bazde is another small wildlife sanctuary on the outskirts of Kohima.

The handloom and handicraft products of Nagaland have a distinct identity of their own. The exquisite hand woven shawls of various tribes, Naga mekhelas (Sarongs) and Naga hand bags have also found markets outside India. Beads, baskets and hats made of cane and bamboo are also among the best buys of Nagaland. Tourists may also buy a pair of Naga decorative spear to adorn the walls of their homes. A new trend seen in Nagaland is the manufacture of new garments using the traditional products of the state.

The population of Nagaland is entirely tribal. The Nagas are divided into as many as fourteen major tribal groups. They are the Angami, Ao, Chakhesang, Chang, Khemungan, Konyak, Lotha, Phom, Pochury, Rengma, Sangtam, Sema, Yimchunger and Zeliang. Each of the tribal groups have a distinct identity in the form of language, culture and traditions.

The only airport of Nagaland is at Dimapur. State carrier Indian Airlines operates regular flights from Delhi and Kolkata via Guwahati. Dimapur also has the only railway station of the state. Both Kohima and Dimapur are well connected by road with all state capitals of the north east including Guwahati.

Places of Interest