Kohima
Mosaic of multi-ethnicity

An annual jamboree that sweeps the entire of Nagaland every December for 10 days is that the Hornbill Festival. Hosted at the Kisama Heritage Village, on the outskirts of Kohima, it brings together the culture sort of the tribes of Nagaland. The festival hosts almost 16 tribes of Nagaland along side thousands of tourists , who come to observe the grand tribal spectacle unfold during a mesmeric array of activities.

One of the most important gatherings within the state, the festival sees a sea of tribal community members wearing red and black hues, coronets, beads, cowries and kilts. Though from a distance all of them look an equivalent , at a better look, one can distinguish the distinct features of every tribal ensemble. While the Sema Nagas don a necklet, called aminihu, that consists of pairs of boar tusks strung along side strings of cane, the Angami wear a precious necklace, called tsubo, which is formed of multi-hued glass pieces and bone spacers and pearls engraved with geometrical patterns. In fact, patterns, motifs and hues on shawls and skirts, which differ from tribe to tribe, also tell stories of their history, valour and traditions. they will even be indicators of accomplishments or legal status . a number of the foremost fascinating performances are the stunning show of the headhunting rituals of Konyaks of Mon, the elegant dance moves of Ao women of Mokokchung, the longest daos (swords with wooden hilts) of Changs from Tuensang, the single-stringed instrument (tati) of Chakhesang Nagas of Phek and Angami Nagas of Kohima – made from dried calabash – and therefore the artistic dance of Zeliangs.

A perfect balance between art, history and culture, the extravaganza features extraordinarily beautiful objects displaying the tribes’ history. The performances that complement these are works of art in motion. While what may need been wars in past , are recreated as mock-fight dramas and are huge crowd pullers. With war log drums, blazing shotguns, backswords with bevels (dha), dao and spears, performers stage full-blown mock fights, wearing warrior costumes. The shape, pattern and carvings on traditional Naga weapons differ from tribe to tribe. Most of the performances are amid live music and rhythmic war cries.

Organised by the govt of Nagaland to market cultural heritage and encourage inter-tribal interactions, the Hornbill Festival is that the best thanks to experience the rich culture of the state. a number of the highlights of the festival are the normal Naga Morung exhibitions, flower shows, herbal medicine stalls, fashion shows, Naga wrestling, indigenous games and musical concerts, among others.

The Kohima Museum takes visitors closer to the lives of the tribals living in Nagaland. Built with an aim to introduce tourists to the rich culture and tradition of the 16 tribal groups of Nagaland, the Kohima Museum takes visitors on an enriching tribal experience. The museum is found in Upper Bayavu Hills and displays gateposts, endemic regional animals and birds, statues, jewellery items and pillars. What makes the museum worth a visit is that the incontrovertible fact that its exhibits beautifully depict the lifestyle of the Naga people. The museum also houses life-size models that depict the costumes, weapons and jewellery worn by the people of Nagaland. If you’re travelling together with your kids, confirm to go to the museum because it will enhance their knowledge about the rich diversity of India.

Land of the Lotha Nagas, the town of Wokha may be a spectacular blend of rolling mountains, rivers, lakes and pristine forests. Perched on the Wokha mountain, the very best peak within the range, the town is surrounded by popular natural landmarks like Mount Tiyi, Doyang river and Totsu cliff. Located around 70 km from Kohima, Wokha offers great trekking experiences and regardless of which hill you climb or which forested path you’re taking , vibrant landscapes carpeted with colourful flowers will accompany you!

The history of this town dates back to 1876 when British came here and made it the headquarters of the Naga Hills District under Assam. you’ll also experience a mixture of cultures in Wokha, including local dance and music. the most festivals celebrated are Tokhu, Pikhuchak and Emong. It’s also famous for shawls, which are handmade using techniques that are skilled generations.