Nagaland is part of the unexplored parts of India, even to an Indian. Hanging on the North-eastern belt of this vast country, beautiful Nagaland is one of the seven states in that region. Famously called the “seven sisters”, these states have been largely untouched by the recurring Governments at the centre. While this may generally translate to a reduction in the availability of basic facilities, train connections etc, this also means that the nature there is left as it is.
Nagaland has a small population and is one of the smaller states in the region and it borders Myanmar. Nagaland has Arunachal Pradesh towards its north-east, Assam towards its north-western and western boundaries and Manipur as its southern neighbour. The state is tourist-friendly and most of the locals are well versed in English.
The state can’t really be divided into northern and southern parts per se.
The entire state is serene in nature and travelling here is a backpacker’s dream. The luxury traveller isn't left disappointed as even the simplest of hotels in this stunning state provide you with the best of facilities at cheap prices. The stunning mountains, the picturesque hillocks and the streaming lakes will make you want to whip out your camera often.
Take a trek out in the wilderness of Nagaland and you can be sure that there's going to be a stream there to surprise you. Numerous streams and rivulets run loose within the boundaries of the state, making it a whale of a memory to travel in this picturesque state. You will also run into the native tribals, who are only too willing to help you out with anything from food to shelter to milk to travel supplies. You can't really find many farms in Nagaland as agriculture is not a big occupation.
The train tracks are far and few in between and the best mode of transport would be to rent a car. All along the highways, just out of important cities lie car rental services that are easy on the pocket.
Dimapur is the biggest city in the state.
Kohima, the capital is a comfortable place to stay in. It is well connected by road to the entire state and can be a tourist’s base camp. Nagaland has numerous lakes which are located bang in the middle of mountains, providing for some spectacular scenery.
The numerous local tribes of the lovely state of Nagaland celebrate their festivals at different times in the year. For a tourist, there’s not a good season or off season. The weather is boisterous for most part of the year with intermittent rains now and then.
Since the state has a rough history, there are permits required to travel to and within the state of Nagaland for a non-Indian. However, these permits can be easily obtained by the concerned tourist at the Home Ministry’s office in New Delhi.
Visit Nagaland for an enriching experience. Rest assured, you’ll find the peace you’re looking for. The beautiful plateaus and valleys of this breathtaking state can make you want to kick up your feet and stare into the fog enveloped mountains forever.
