10 Best Things To Do In Nagaland: Dive into Every Experience!

Nagaland welcomes all kinds of explorers! Whether you’re an introvert who enjoys quietly soaking in nature, an adventurous enthusiast, or someone eager to explore the vibrant culture, Nagaland won’t disappoint you because this state has it all!

The joy of finding everything in one place is unmatched! Let’s quickly check out all the best things to do in Nagaland. Once you’ve checked off these activities, you’ve truly experienced the best of Nagaland! So, let’s dive into the top things to do in Nagaland!

1. Experience the vibrant culture and traditions at the Hornbill Festival

The Hornbill Festival is celebrated in Nagaland, usually during the first week of December. It’s a vibrant celebration where tribes from across the state come together, adorned in colourful attire, to share their rich cultural heritage with the world, offering top things to do in Nagaland. 

But why the name “Hornbill”? Well, the festival is named after the hornbill bird, which holds significant cultural importance in Naga society.  It represents the spirit of their tribes and their traditions. That’s why they chose it as the name for their big celebration.

During the festival, you can witness colourful parades, craft exhibitions, sports events, and even traditional games like archery and wrestling. It’s a time when communities come together to honour their ancestors, exchange stories, and celebrate their identity with pride, offering unique Nagaland offbeat experiences.

This festival brings a whole new level of energy to the state, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe who want to experience its unique charm.

So, if you’re ever in Nagaland during December, don’t miss out on the Hornbill Festival, it will give you the chance to have one of the best cultural experiences in Nagaland and is one of the top activities to do in Nagaland.

• Location: Kisama Heritage Village Kohima District, Nagaland, India

• Timings: 1 December to 10 December ( 9 am onwards )
• Entry fees: ₹ 20 – ₹ 30 per day

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2. Go on an Exciting Adventure to Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak!

Don’t forget about the stunning “Valley of Flowers” hidden behind the Japfu mountains, the Dzukou Valley which is one of the best places to visit in Kohima. This trek is perfect for both beginners and moderate-level trekkers, offering a rewarding experience amidst the beautiful natural scenery and thereby stands as one of the best Nagaland offbeat experiences.

Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak, about 25 km south of Kohima, are like the Switzerland of the East. They’re super beautiful and a must-see for anyone who loves nature,offering some of the best things to do in Nagaland. Japfu Peak, the second highest in Nagaland, gives you an amazing view of the colourful Dzukou Valley, often called the “Valley of Flowers of the East”. The valley itself, believed to be an old volcano, is covered in lush greenery and pretty flowers. From its highest point, you can see the whole valley, and it’s just amazing for Nagaland sightseeing! You’ll feel like you’re on top of the world, almost like you need to pinch yourself to believe it’s real!

• Location: Viswema, Nagaland

• Best time to visit: June to September

• Entry fees: ₹30 to ₹50 per person ( Dzukou Valley )
• Activities to do: Trekking, Hiking and Camping

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3. Discover the special magic of Longwa Village, where a single house sits in two different countries at once.

The village chief’s house, known as the Angh’s house, sits right on the border, with one half in India and the other in Myanmar. Visitors can stand in the house with one foot in each country, creating a memorable experience and essentially enjoying dual citizenship simultaneously.

But it’s more than just a unique location. It’s home to the Konyak Naga tribe, famous for their brave history and traditional customs. Here, visitors can see beautiful handcrafted items and join in colourful festivals. Tribal tours in Nagaland offer an experience into the rich cultural heritage. Besides, Longwa offers stunning views of green hillsides and abundant landscapes, making it one of the best things to do in Nagaland for those seeking cultural experiences in Nagaland.

• Location: Mon, Nagaland

• Best time to visit: October to May
• Entry fees: Free of cost

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4. Experience the Stunning View from Glory Peak!

At the summit, a flat plateau awaits, where locals gather for celebrations and events, while a treehouse on the other side offers stunning views of Mount Everest and Mount Saramati. Located 4 kilometres from Pfutsero town and 70 kilometres from Kohima, you can reach Pfutsero by rental car or state-run bus, and then trek the rest of the way to Glory Peak. It’s one of the best Nagaland tourist experiences!

• Location: Pfutsero, Nagaland 797107

• Activities to do: Trekking

• Best time to visit: October and April
• Entry fees: Free of cost

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5. Engage in Thrilling Rafting Adventures on the Doyang River!

But it’s not just for locals. Tourists love the Doyang River too! They enjoy activities like boating, birdwatching, and even rafting, some of the exciting things to do in Nagaland. 

Rafting on the river is a thrilling experience as you ride the rapids and enjoy the beautiful scenery around you which gives you all the “Rishikesh” vibes. So if you’re ever in Nagaland, don’t miss out on the adventure of white water rafting on the Doyang River, one of the best activities to do in Nagaland.

• Location: Wokha District of Nagaland

• Activities to do: Boating, Fishing and Rafting

• Entry fees: Free of cost

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6. Discover the Wildlife Wonders at Ntangki Wildlife Sanctuary!

There , you’ll encounter majestic mahogany trees, abundant bamboo groves, and unique rattan trees while exploring its beauty. There are some rare species like Pinus Khasyia and Pinus Caribiae. You will get amazed by the beauty of Rubia cordifolia and Oroxylum Indicum as you wander through the park. One of the notable tree species include Elaeocarpus Ganitrus.

With its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, Ntangki National Park promises unforgettable Nagaland offbeat experiences for nature lovers looking for some adventurous things to do in Nagaland!

Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled to spot the unique bears, tigers, leopards, and wild dogs roaming freely in the park. Birdwatchers will also be delighted by the variety of birds, including hornbills and black storks.So, if you’re looking for unforgettable Nagaland tourist experiences, don’t miss out on Ntangki National Park!

• Location: Peren, Nagaland 797110

• Timings: 6 am – 4 pm

• Entry fees: ₹30 ( For Adults ) and ₹10 ( For Children )
• Activities to do: Wildlife Safari, Jeep Safari and Trekking

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7. Explore the rich culture of Nagaland at Kisama Heritage Village

Visitors to Kisama Heritage Village can experience traditional Naga life through vibrant performances, cultural displays, and demonstrations of crafts such as weaving, wood carving, and pottery. The village is designed to resemble a traditional Naga settlement, with each tribe presenting its unique customs, attire, and rituals.Apart from witnessing cultural diversity, tourists can also enjoy local cuisine, shop for authentic Naga handicrafts, and interact with tribal artisans. 

The amazing surroundings of Kisama add to the charm of the village, making it a memorable destination for travellers exploring through tribal tours of Nagaland.

• Location: Kisama Heritage Village Kohima District, Nagaland, India

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
• Activities to do: Cultural Activities and Experiencing Hornbill festival

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8. Scale the heights of Nagaland at Saramati Peak!

During the trek, you’ll encounter local villages where you can explore and interact with the people, adding to the enjoyment of your journey of Nagaland tourist experiences.

Trekking to Saramati Peak provides an opportunity to explore the region’s rich biodiversity and witness stunning panoramic views! It will be a journey that will be remembered throughout your life, adding to the list of unforgettable activities to do in Nagaland.

• Location: Thanamir, Nagaland

• Best time to visit: October to March
• Activities to do: Trekking, Camping & Photography of Nature

9. Experience the vibrant Hong Kong Market for an Unforgettable Shopping Adventure!

One of the main attractions of Hong Kong Market is the availability of imported goods at reasonable prices. Shoppers can find a variety of items, including fashion apparel, shoes, bags, and even gadgets, often sourced from Southeast Asia including Thailand and China. The market is a paradise for bargain hunters, offering numerous opportunities to negotiate prices and grab great deals.

Beyond shopping, visiting Hong Kong Market provides a glimpse into the daily life of Dimapur’s residents. The market’s diverse crowd and the blend of local and international products make it a fascinating place to explore. When you want to experience the joy of shopping in Nagaland, exploring Hong Kong Market in Nagaland is one of the most memorable things to do in Nagaland.

• Location: Police Colony, Dimapur, Nagaland 797112
• Timings: 10 am to 10 pm

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10. Try the delicious Naga cuisine for an authentic taste experience!

The key aspects that make Naga Cuisine unique is its use of local ingredients, fermented foods, smoked meats and minimal use of oil and spices.

Here are some famous Naga delicacies you must try in Nagaland to have one of the best Nagaland offbeat experiences:

1. Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoot: This dish is made with smoked pork and bamboo shoots. The unique flavour of bamboo shoots combined with smoked pork makes it special.

2. Axone (Fermented Soybean): Axone is fermented soybean used in many Naga dishes. It has a distinctive taste.

3. Naga Curry: This curry can be made with different meats like chicken, pork, or beef, using local spices and herbs for a flavorful experience.

4. Hinkejvu: A healthy dish made by boiling colocasia (taro) leaves, mustard leaves, and shredded cabbage.

5. Akini Chokibo: Made with perilla seeds and snails, this unique dish has a distinct taste.

6. Galho: A porridge-like dish similar to khichdi, made with rice and local vegetables, sometimes with meat.

7. Bamboo Shoot Fry*: Fresh bamboo shoots are fried with minimal spices to highlight their natural flavour.

8. Zutho: A traditional Naga rice beer, an integral part of Naga celebrations.These dishes can be found in every corner of Nagaland, no matter where you go.

Conclusion

Whether it’s trekking in Dzukou Valley to witness the sunrise or tasting local cuisine, Nagaland leaves lasting memories. It’s not just a place to visit; it’s an unforgettable journey of discovery.