Looking for the best places to visit in Nagaland? Then here are some of the famous travel destinations to visit in Nagaland which you should include in your itinerary. Nagaland is home to many tourist spots. Some of the popular destinations to visit in Nagaland are Hornbill Festival, Mon National Park, Phezou Bridge, Tizit Golf Course etc. where you can spend a good holiday with your family or friends. Let's explore the list of all such places.
Hornbill Festival
The Hornbill festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm by Naga people from December 1 to 10 every year. The main attraction of this festival is various cultural dances performed by women wearing colourful dresses mostly made out of cane or bamboo leaves while men wear traditional attire during their cultural presentation known as 'Ngakho'. This festival also displays rich trophies, artefacts and handicrafts crafted by different communities of Nagaland. The best time to visit this place is around September/October when the weather is pleasant.
Kohima
Kohima, the capital city of Nagaland is a major tourist destination. There are many attractions in Kohima that you should not miss while on a tour to Nagaland. Some places to visit in Kohima include Ajabie Crafts, Central State Museum etc.,
Dimapur
Dimapur located at a distance of 167 Km from the state capital Kohima is another well-known tourist spot for spending holidays with family or friends. The famous attractions in Dimapur are Choithar Pathar (Stone Garden), Hill Stone Park etc.,
Mon National Park
The Mon National Park situated around 110km from the Phek district is one of the best places to visit when inland. This national park is famous for the Golden Langur which is found only in Nagaland.
Phezou Bridge
The Phezou bridge located on the river Doyang in Wokha district was constructed in the year 2004 and is 480 ft long. This bridge is one of the highest bridges in India. The bridge provides a connecting route to many villages by road on either side of the Doyang river.
Naga Heritage Village
To experience the Naga way of life Nagaland has a place called 'Naga Heritage Village' located near Dimapur. The village promotes tribal culture through various activities and one can see how traditional Naga houses are built with thatched roofs, local food cooked in bamboo shoots etc.
Zoological Park
The Zoological Park located on the outskirts of Dimapur town is home to some wildlife species like leopard, deers, bears etc., You can go boating here which is also available at an additional cost. If you want to visit the nearby places near Dimapur then you can go for a tour to Jakhama Wildlife Sanctuary, Thahekhu Hydel Power Station etc.,
Tizit Golf Course
Another place to visit in Nagaland is the Tizit golf course. This golf course is located at a distance of 25 Km from Kohima and is situated on top of a hillock. There are several other attractions nearby like Fort Azinho which offers scenic landscape & panoramic view of Kohima town. The best time to enjoy this scenic beauty is during the winter season when the whole scenery looks extremely attractive with fresh snowfall all around.
Ghosu Waterfall
The Ghosu waterfalls are one beautiful place to visit in Nagaland situated at a distance of about 20 Km from Kohima, the capital city. There are many other attractions nearby like Laikoiching and Naga Heritage Village which would definitely enhance your holiday experience.
Mathanguri Sanctuary
The Mathanguri Sanctuary is another place that you can visit during your trip to Nagaland. This sanctuary is located on the Indo Bhutan border and has an area of 1100 square km. Wildlife species found here include elephants, deer, leopards etc.,
Wokha
The Wokha district is famous for its lush green landscape and picturesque surroundings. The main attraction here is the Rengma National Park which is home to rare species of flora and fauna including one-horned Rhinos, Leopards etc.,
Khonoma Green Village
This is yet another place to visit in Nagaland for enjoying the natural beauty. Khonoma village situated on top of a hillock surrounded by lush green vegetation would definitely leave you spellbound with its scenic charm.
Mokokchung
Home to some interesting tourist attractions, the Mokokchung district also offers plenty of scope for adventure seekers as there are several rivers around which can be explored throughout the year. You can take part in water sports and go fishing from October to February. Elephant safari can be availed from December to April while boating is organized from August till November only because the water level during the other months remains quite low.
Phensang
Another place to visit when in the Mokokchung district is Phensang valley. The view of Phensang valley situated at a distance of about 30 km from Mokokchung town is quite fascinating. This valley provides excellent opportunities for school excursions, picnics, mountain biking etc.,
Meluri
Besides these places to visit in Nagaland, Meluri is yet another tourist attraction that you cannot afford to miss. Meluri situated at a distance of about 50 km from Mokokchung town offers tourists plenty of scopes to indulge in adventure sports like rock climbing, river crossing etc. The rock formations in Meluri are also quite interesting and definitely add to the charm of this place.
Nagaland Wildlife Sanctuary
Another Park that should not be missed when on a tour to Nagaland is the Nagaland wildlife sanctuary. This sanctuary has an area of about 217 sq km and was established in 1978 with an aim of protecting various species of wild animals including hoolock gibbon, slow loris, pig-tailed macaque etc.,
Kohima War Cemetry
This war cemetery located near Kohima at a distance of about 3 Km has an area of about 1 hectare and is situated at the foot of Kohima hills. The cemetery was built in 1944 after the Second World War to commemorate those who sacrificed their lives during World War II. The graves are situated in perfect rows, lined up with each other. Some of the inscriptions on these tombstones are 'A lonely grave in a sun-kissed plot/Earth held dearly, one she lost/But only God knows best. The memorial here consists of obelisks commemorating Major General David Marne, Brigadier E A T H R by name etc.
Tuensang
Another place to visit in Nagaland is the Tuensang. Tuensang situated at a distance of about 35 km from Mokokchung town is famous for its mineral water springs that are quite popular among domestic tourists. You can take part in adventure activities like rock climbing, hiking etc., organized by the Tourism department.
Kohima Science Centre
The Kohima science centre located on NH-29A has an area of about 44 sq m and was built to promote science awareness among children and students studying in schools/colleges nearby. Some other attractions there include kids play zone, planetarium, 3D theatre etc.
Nagaland State Museum
This museum located within the premises of Khezhakeno Park has exhibits of exquisite arts and crafts, historical letters, traditional dresses etc.,
Angami Heritage Village
Located 6 KMs from Kohima town, this heritage village presents a life-size replica of the traditional Naga house and activities like weaving, making of traditional wine etc.,
Phek Town
Nagaland is also famous for its Phek town which is located at a distance of about 55 km from Kohima. Situated in such a calm and serene environment, this town presents an excellent opportunity to explore the culture and traditions of Nagaland. You can visit some local churches in Phek or enjoy boating in the Dikhu river nearby. The Dikhu river itself provides excellent opportunities for fishing and canoeing (boats are available for rent). Besides these places to visit in Nagaland, there are other tourist spots that you can visit when on a tour here. These include Medziphema, Mon, Tuophema etc. This town serves as an excellent base when on a trip to the Longleng district which offers some unique opportunities to tourists who flock here with family members and friends. Some must-visit places in Phek include Tamlu Fort Ruins, Temsang Monastery etc. The best time to visit Phek is between November and February.
Mokokchung
This is another place to visit in Nagaland apart from Kohima, Phensang and Benreu. Mokokchung situated at a distance of about 80 km from Dimapur is the district headquarters of this township which is popular for its rich tradition and culture that attracts tourists from all over India. You can take part in adventure activities like rappelling etc., organized by the Tourism department.
Mokokchung Fort
This historic fort situated in the heart of Mokokchung town is one of the ancient structures built in Nagaland in 1828. This 75 m high structure with its strategic location offers a panoramic view of Mokokchung town with its surroundings. You can take part in adventure activities like rappelling, rock climbing etc., organized by the Tourism department.
Kiphire Springs
Located at a distance of about 40 km from Kohima this place which got its name from the Kohima word meaning 'water' serves as an excellent picnic spot for tourists who flock there during weekends with family members and friends.
Longleng
Located at a distance of about 55 km from Kohima, this place is famous for hot water springs and the beautiful landscapes that one gets to see here. The best time to visit Longleng is during October and March. You can take part in adventure activities like rappelling etc., organized by the Tourism department.
Japfu Peak
This amazing tourist spot located within the Phek district at a distance of about 45 km from Tedim (Tiddim) town presents excellent opportunities for rock climbing and mountaineering. You can enjoy some real adventurous moments with your loved ones when you climb up Japfu peak which is considered an ideal destination for trekking lovers. Apart from these places to visit in Nagaland, there are other tourist spots that are worth visiting when on a trip here. These include Medziphema, Mon, Tuophema etc.
Zunheboto
This town which is located at a distance of about 120 km from Kohima is popular for its scenic beauty and rich tradition. This place has so much to offer to tourists that you will feel as if you are on an expedition. Some must-visit places here include Khamti village, Kigwema village etc.
Dzukou Valley
This is another place to visit in Nagaland apart from Kohima, Phensang and Benreu. Dzukou Valley situated at a distance of about 100 km from Dimapur is the home of the famed Angami tribe which is one of the most ancient tribes that have existed here since the Stone Age. The lush green forests around this valley serve as an excellent environment for adventure lovers. You can take part in adventure activities like rappelling, rock climbing etc., organized by the Tourism department.
Touphema Village
Located at a distance of about 30 km from Mon town, this village is famous for its rich tradition and culture. You can enjoy your time here by exploring the beautiful landscapes around Touphema village, visit local villages etc.
Bhandari Village
This place to visit in Nagaland located at a distance of about 10 km from Tuophema serves as an excellent picnic spot. Apart from the scenic beauty you get to see here, there are other tourist attractions like hot water springs and plenty of adventure activities that make Bhandari Village stand apart from other tourist spots in Nagaland. You can experience some real adventurous moments with your loved ones when you take part in rappelling, rock climbing and mountaineering organized by the Tourism department.
Benreu
This is another place to visit in Nagaland apart from Kohima, Phensang and Touphema. Benreu situated at a distance of about 260 km from Dimapur is home to the ancient Monpa tribe which has existed here since the Stone Age (10th century). This village offers excellent opportunities for camping to tourists who flock here during weekends with family members and friends. Apart from these places to visit in Nagaland, there are other tourist spots that are worth visiting when on a trip here. These include Medziphema etc. Benreu is famous for its natural beauty and attracts visitors from all over. You can visit Benreu to explore the beautiful surroundings which are quite scenic and would definitely leave you spellbound with their charm.
Phensang
This beautiful village located at a distance of about 10 km from Kohima serves as an excellent picnic spot for giving your loved ones a real treat. Apart from the scenic beauty you get to see here, Phensang is also known for its rich culture and tradition that draw tourists in hordes during weekends. You can visit the nearby villages or take part in adventure activities organized by the Tourism department.
Kohima City
This situated in the foothills of Mount Saramati is a beautiful hill station that serves as the perfect base when on a trip to this historical land. You will find a number of tourist attractions here that include Pangsau Pass, Sanis and Pfuchama Lake etc.
Khonoma Village
This place to visit in Nagaland located at a distance of about 20 km from Kohima has been included as one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in India, especially by adventure seekers who come here for rappelling and rock climbing. This village is also home to the Angami tribe which is one of the most ancient tribes existing across the world right now. Among other places worth visiting in Kohima, there are Watsa Waterfalls, Khonoma Festival Centre etc.
Pfutsero
This village located at a distance of about 100 km from Kohima is home to the Pochury tribe which is the youngest Angami sub-tribe. Here you can enjoy your time amidst the scenic beauty that surrounds Pfutsero village. Apart from these places to visit in Nagaland, there are other tourist attractions like Mokokchung etc.
Kachari Ruins
Located at a distance of about 35 km from Dimapur, these ruins are home to the old Kachari kingdom which existed prior to the British invasion. You can visit this place and take part in adventure activities like rappelling etc., offered by the Tourism department.
Pangti Village
This beautiful tourist spot is located at a distance of about 24 km from Wokha and offers excellent opportunities for camping and picnicking. Apart from the scenic beauty you get to see here, there are other things that make Pangti Village special such as hot water springs, folk songs and dances of the Sema tribe etc.
Chumukedima Village
This place to visit in Nagaland located at a distance of about 21 km from Kohima is home to the Sema tribe that is one of the major tribes existing across India. This village serves as an excellent picnic spot and offers opportunities for camping and adventure activities like rappelling and rock climbing etc., offered by the Tourism department.
Nagaland Wildlife Sanctuaries
Spanning across three districts, these sanctuaries are worth visiting when on a trip to Nagaland. You can enjoy your time amidst scenic beauty surrounded by lush green environs here. Some of the best wildlife sanctuaries you must visit here include Ntangki National Park, Doyang Reservoir Wildlife Sanctuary etc.
Ntangki National Park
This place to visit in Nagaland located at a distance of about 21 km from Kohima is home to Black-Necked Crane that makes this national park its home during winter. Apart from these places to visit in Nagaland, there are other tourist destinations like Phek etc.
Doyang Reservoir Wildlife Sanctuary
This wildlife sanctuary located at a distance of about 22 km from Kohima is home to various types of migratory birds. Also popularly known as Doyang Game Reserve, this place serves as one of the best places to visit in Nagaland for bird lovers.
Brastad Farm
This is a famous tourist spot in Nagaland located at a distance of about 21 km from Wokha that serves as an excellent picnic spot for everyone. Apart from the scenic beauty you get to see here, there are many things that make the Brastad farm special such as boating and fishing etc., offered by the Tourism department.
Nagaland is full of tourist attractions that are worth visiting during your trip to the state. You must visit these places if you desire to catch a brief glimpse into Nagaland's wonderful history and culture. However, it is advised that you plan your trip as per the season as some places may remain closed during particular seasons due to heavy rainfall or other weather conditions.
The above information provided here on places to visit in Nagaland offers an overall idea about various tourist spots included here for those who plan to visit this historical land. It is advised that all tourists make sure they do thorough research about major destinations before planning their tour so as to enjoy a hassle-free experience during their trip.