north east India | Nonsense Talk News

Nagaland is one of seven sister states of India, that is situated in the north easternmost part of the country. The state of Nagaland has Arunachal Pradesh to the northeast, Manipur to the south, and Assam to the west and northwest and the country of Myanmar (Burma) to the east. The roads are smoothly linked highways via Assam and West Bengal, Nagaland and, the entire seven sisters are easily accessible.

The state that was born on December 1st is famous for its numerous picturesque locations. The region is covered mostly by high-altitude Mountains and is famous for its breath-taking scenic beauty. Entire northeastern states are known for their diverse cultures and traditions. Nagaland is no exception; it can be divided into two parts – Modern Nagaland and tribal Nagaland. On one hand, the region reflects the young generation highly inspired by western culture and you would find young people singing and dancing on western tunes. They have their English pop music and heavy metal bands. Regular fashion shows are organized. While on the other hand, there are tribes that have their own culture, tradition, and customs.

Nagaland is divided into twelve districts and has 1428 villages. Each village has its saga. Numerous historical places offer sightseeing delight for tourists.

ILP Permit mandatory for domestic tourists:

However, being close to the Myanmar border, tourists are

required to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit some of the sensitive

districts manned by Indian Army personnel. ILP is an extension of the Bengal

Eastern Frontier Regulation Act 1873. Those residing in New Delhi, Kolkata,

Shillong or Guwahati can obtain the ILP application form by visiting the Nagaland

House office. Others can visit http://www. Ilp.nagaland.gov.in

and select ILP Services > Apply New ILP (Tourist Only), Fill the ILP Application Form accordingly, and Submit it.

Kohima is the capital of Nagaland. It is also regarded as the second largest village in Asia. Dimapur is the largest city while Tuensang is the largest district. Longleng is considered to be the smallest district. Let’s take a glance at the districts that constitute Nagaland:

Dimapur
Kiphire
Kohima
Longleng
Mokokchung
Mon
Peren
Phek
Tuensang
Wokha
Zunheboto
Noklak

Tribes of Nagaland:

Nagaland is inhabited by 16 major tribes — Angami, Ao, Chakhesang, Chang, Kachari, Khiamniungan, Konyak, Kuki, Lotha, Phom, Pochury, Rengma, Sangtam, Sumi, Yimchunger and Zeme-Liangmai (Zeliang). As per the 2001 Census, the sex ratio of the total ST population is 943. Among the Naga sub-tribes, females outnumbered males in Angami (1004)

The ethnicity in Nagaland is a medley of many tribes and sub-tribes that have been living in the state, since time immemorial. Christianity is the

widely followed religion of the various Naga ethnic groups of Nagaland. Besides, the communities other than Nagas living in the state are followers of Hinduism and Islam.

It is believed that Nagas originates from the Mongolian race. They might have migrated from China to settle at the foothills of the Himalayas. There are around 100 languages since there is no single major tribe of people in Nagaland. Customs and traditions vary. Few among the Naga tribes follow polygamy while rests are monogamy.

Festivals:

The most popular festival of Nagaland is the Horn Bill Festival which is called the festival of festivals is celebrated from December 1 to 10. The Horn Bill festival is celebrated in Kohima. A large number of international guests also come to attend this iconic festival. Let’s take a glance at some of the other festivals:

The Mimkut festival (Kuki tribe) – The festival is celebrated in January.
The Konyak Aoleang festival (Konyak tribe) – The festival is celebrated in April.
The Moatsu festival (Ao tribe) – It is celebrated in the first week of May.
The Chavang festival (Kuki tribe) – The festival is celebrated in November.
The Tokhu Emong festival (Lotha tribe) – The festival is celebrated in November.

Weather:

The region experiences a largely monsoon climate with high humidity levels. Annual rainfall averages around 1,800–2,500 millimeters (70–100 in), concentrated in May to September. Temperatures range from 21 to 40 °C (70 to 104 °F).

Best time to visit Nagaland:

The best time to visit Nagaland is between May and September. Tourists are advised not to visit the region during the monsoon season as there are chances of landslides, and the weather is extremely hot, and humid. However, the region is worth visiting during Christmas, being a Catholic-dominated region, the churches are decorated and markets adorn special X-Mas cakes and confectioneries. Singing Christmas carols and organizing music concerts marks the celebration.

Music and dance:

On average, Naga people are music lovers and love to sing and dance. Naga folk songs are both romantic and historical, songs mostly narrate the saga of ancestors and incidents. Seasonal songs describe various activities done during the agricultural season. The tribes residing in the remote corners of Nagaland have their respective traditional music and instruments.

The music of the state also expresses

the melodious diversity since there are various tribal communities in Nagaland.

The major folk dances of Nagaland –

Modse, Agurshikukula, Butterfly Dance, Aaluyattu, Sadal Kekai, Changai Dance, Kuki Dance, Leshalaptu, Khamba Lim, Mayur Dance, Monyoasho, Rengma, Seecha and Kukui Kucho, Shankai and Moyashai, etc. War Dance and Zeliang Dance

are the most popular dance forms.

Popular food:

Nagas have diverse food habits. Tribes across the villages have their traditional food. On average, Naga meal would include rice, some kind of meat (either dry or pork with bamboo shoots). The locals are fond of boiled vegetables, and spicy chili sauces. However, the young generation loves to eat fast and junk foods.

Craft and skills:

Nagaland like the other northeast state is rich in skilled craftsmen. The tourists love to buy the creative handiworks comprising of cane-crafting made of bamboos. Some of the popular things that attract include sofa, chairs, baskets, and storage materials. Another specialty where Nagas can create magic is weaving. The shawls made by them are world-famous and are sold like hot cakes across the world. Apart from the Naga women make beautiful items like handbags and jackets are also prepared. Pottery too plays an important role.

Traditional dress of Nagas:

The tribal Angami women wear plain blue cloth skirt and white cloth. The white cloth has thick black marginal bands of a variety of breadth. They also wear Mechala that wrap around skirt with an accompanying shawl. The men wear the same dress styles with a slight difference. However, the dress and accessories vary from tribes to tribes

Here is how to reach Nagaland:

1. Tourists from other parts of the country can reach Dimapur by air. Dimapur has the closest domestic airport. It is situated a distance of around 75 km from Nagaland.

2. The nearest railway station is Dimapur, which is well-connected to Kolkata and Guwahati.

3. By Road. One can take a shared taxi from Dimapur railway station (Rs 200) and reach Kohima.

If you are looking for a trip filled with excitement and adventure then all you are required to is to apply for the ILP, pack your bags, and visit this beautiful state in the northeast. The place would simply mesmerize you with its breath-taking views and numerous locales. You would simply love to meet the locals who are simple and full of warmth. Don’t miss their traditional music and dance that is so full of beats and rhythm. Not to forget their exquisite weaves especially shawls and handicrafts. However, do not try to cross barricades or restrictions since the region is sensitive from a defence point of view. Enjoy your trip to Nagaland.