Do not miss this 5 days Nagaland Itinerary
Located in the north-eastern region of India, Nagaland is a state rich in cultural heritage and natural beauty. Bordered by Myanmar and the Indian states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur, the state is the home of the Naga people – an ethnic group steeped in tradition and history. The picturesque landscapes of Nagaland, including lush forests and rugged mountains, as well as its diverse wildlife, make it a popular destination for tourists. The state capital, Kohima, is also the largest city and the official language is English.
Nagaland is celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, with traditional festivals, dances, and music playing an integral role in the state’s culture. The state is also known for its rich history and tradition, with many ancient temples and monuments that are important pilgrimage sites for the people of Nagaland. Additionally, Nagaland is renowned for its rich natural resources and biodiversity, with many national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that are home to a wide variety of flora and fauna.
Folk music and dances, as well as festivals such as the Hornbill and Moatsu Festivals, showcase Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage. The state is also home to several tribal communities, each possessing their unique customs and traditions.
When to visit Nagaland
If you’re planning a trip to Nagaland, the optimal time to visit would be between October and May. This period is characterized by pleasant weather, making it perfect for engaging in various sightseeing and outdoor activities. The temperature during this time is quite comfortable, typically ranging between 20-25 degree Celsius, which makes it easy to explore the state and all it has to offer. Additionally, one of the major tourist attractions in Nagaland, the famous Hornbill Festival, is held during the first week of December. This festival is a celebration of the rich culture and heritage of the state, and is a must-see for any traveller. Furthermore, the fall season is also an ideal time to witness the blooming of rhododendrons and other wildflowers, adding to the already picturesque landscapes of Nagaland.
How to Reach Nagaland
Reaching Nagaland, the northeastern state of India, can be done through various modes of transportation. One of the most convenient options would be to take a flight to Dimapur, which has airports that are well-connected to major Indian cities such as Kolkata, Delhi and Guwahati. But the flight cost from Mumbai to Dimapur was showing 30-40k including return for per person. And there are no direct flights.
Another option is to take a train to Dimapur, which is the main railway station in Nagaland and then travel by road to other parts of the state using buses or taxis. You can also fly to Guwahati and take a midnight train to Dimapur, and from Dimapur you can opt for a share cab.
If you prefer travelling by road, there are several bus services available from major cities in the region to Nagaland, which can take you to your desired destination. Also, you can book a car to reach Dimapur or Kohima, you can check out different options to get the beat deal on the prices. But be prepared to spend 10-12 hours on the road.
Here is a cost breakdown of my journey to Kohima:
The flight cost from Mumbai to Guwahati will be 14-16k per person return. Check out kayak.in for cheaper flight options
Train cost: Sleeper non-AC will be roughly around 600-800 pp Book your tickets well in advance on IRCTC
Cab cost: Off season- 300-400 pp and Peak season- 600-800 pp
Train or Flight - What to choose?
Guwahati, the largest city in the north-eastern state of Assam, is well-connected to Nagaland, a neighbouring state, by train. The train journey is an affordable and comfortable way to travel between the two cities.
There are several trains that operate between Guwahati and Nagaland, such as the Dibrugarh Rajdhani Express, the Tinsukia Express, and the Kamrup Express. These trains offer a convenient way to travel and are a popular choice among travellers.
However, it is worth noting that the flight from Guwahati to Nagaland is relatively expensive when compared to the train. A flight between the two cities would take around an hour, while the train journey takes around 12-14 hours.
For budget-conscious travellers, taking a train would be a more cost-effective option. The train journey may take longer but it offers a more relaxed and scenic route, it also offers the opportunity to explore the local culture, while the flight is less time-consuming but it’s more expensive. For those who value time over money, the flight would be a better choice.
ILP for Nagaland
Visiting Nagaland, India as a tourist requires obtaining an Inner Line Permit (ILP). The ILP application form can be obtained at Nagaland House offices in cities such as New Delhi, Kolkata, Shillong, or Guwahati, and can also be submitted there. It’s important to note that even if you are traveling in a group, each person will need to obtain the permit individually.
To fill out the form, which is available online, you will need two passport-sized photos and a photocopy of an identification document such as a Pan Card, Aadhaar Card, or Voter ID. The ILP is valid for 30 days.
The online application process can be done through the website http://home.nagaland.gov.in/inner-line-permit-ilp/ and includes submitting an application, uploading photos and documents for verification, and making an online payment to print the ILP card.
An offline process is also available where forms can be obtained at Nagaland House offices and submitted in-person with required payment and documents after filling and signing the form.
Nagaland itinerary for your next trip:
Day 1- Enjoy Kohima
On the first day of the itinerary, you will arrive in the city of Kohima and meet at the designated location, the Kohima Taxi Stand. From there, you will embark on a journey to the Kisama Heritage Village, which serves as the host of the Hornbill Festival.
Upon arrival at the village, you will have the opportunity to take a leisurely stroll around the area and discover the various cultural stalls and exhibits that are on display. You will also have the chance to sample the delicious local foods and learn about the customs and traditions of the different tribes of Nagaland.
In the evening, you will have the opportunity to witness a variety of traditional dance and music performances, which will showcase the rich culture of the state. The program will conclude by 8:30 pm, and you will return to your tents to rest for the night.
Day 2- Witness the amazing Hornbill festival
On the second day of your journey, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant and dynamic Hornbill Festival. This annual cultural celebration brings together various tribes from the state of Nagaland, offering a showcase of their rich heritage and customs.
As you explore the festival, you will be able to witness the diverse sights and sounds of each tribe, learning about their unique traditions and customs. From traditional dances and music to local art and crafts, the Hornbill Festival provides a glimpse into the fascinating culture of Nagaland.
After a day of exploring, you will return to your hotel in Kohima where you can enjoy a delicious dinner before retiring for the night. The Hornbill Festival is a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage.
Day 3- Trekking to the Dzukou valley
On the third day of the trip, the group will embark on a challenging but rewarding trek to the Dzukou Valley. The trek will take around 8-10 hours to complete, round trip, and will provide stunning views of the valley’s natural beauty, including its diverse plant and animal life. The journey will be challenging, but the breathtaking views and unique experience make it well worth the effort. After completing the trek, the group will return to their hotel in Kohima for dinner and a comfortable overnight stay.
Day 4- Explore the Valley and return
On the fourth day of our journey, we set off early in the morning after a delicious breakfast to visit the heart of the picturesque Dzukou Valley. As we made our way through the valley, we were greeted with breathtaking views of the natural surroundings. The valley is renowned for its abundance of beautiful flowers, with the Dzukou Lily being one of the main attractions. This unique flower can only be found in the Dzukou valley and only blooms during a certain time of the year.
We spent a significant amount of time exploring the valley, taking in the sights and sounds of the natural beauty surrounding us. As we made our way back to Kohima, we were given the opportunity to visit some of the local markets and shops. Here, we had the chance to purchase souvenirs to take back home as a reminder of our wonderful journey.
As evening approached, we returned to the Kohima Taxi Stand to proceed with our onward journey. The memories of the Dzukou Valley and the natural beauty we had encountered during our visit would stay with us for a long time to come.
Safety of Solo travellers in Nagaland
Nagaland is considered to be a safe destination for solo travellers, as the state is known for its friendly and welcoming people. The crime rate in Nagaland is low and the state is considered to be one of the most peaceful in India.
However, it is important for solo travellers to take precautions and be aware of their surroundings, as in any other place. It is also recommended to avoid traveling alone in remote areas and to stick to well-known tourist spots.
The overall safety of Nagaland is considered to be good, as the state has a relatively low crime rate and the government has implemented measures to ensure the safety of tourists. The state has a strong presence of security forces, which helps to maintain peace and stability.
In addition, the state has a number of tourist police stations, which are set up to assist and provide help to tourists. These police stations are located in popular tourist destinations and can be contacted in case of any emergency.
Overall, Nagaland is considered to be a safe destination for solo travellers, as long as they take the necessary precautions and follow basic safety guidelines.
In conclusion, Nagaland is a fascinating destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The itinerary presented here highlights some of the must-see attractions in the state. The itinerary also includes time for relaxation and exploration, allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture fully and make the most of your time in Nagaland. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Nagaland has something to offer. With the guidance of a knowledgeable guide, and a well-planned itinerary, you can be sure to have a memorable and enjoyable trip.
