Nagaland
Wide valleys, rippling streams, majestic mountains, deep gorges, and a rich variety of flora and fauna make Nagaland unique. Nagaland’s turbulent history, song and dance, native crafts, costumes, jewellery and myths and legends are an intrinsic part of its traditions. The colorful people are talented musicians, singers and dancers.
Nagaland, which is pre-dominantly a tribal state, is inhabited by 16 groups of the Tibeto-Burman tribe. Though they were animist by tradition, the influence of English missionaries led most of them to embrace Christianity. Their exposure to the western culture took place when Naga men were recruited as Labor Corps to serve in France during the Second World War. Their loyalty and bravery was highly praised.
The life style of the modern Naga is still influenced 
by
ancient tenets and this makes Naga society a well knit and cohesive unit.
A very interesting traditional institution is the Morung, a men’s
exclusive dormitory that is the focal point of the village.
The Nagas have a wonderful tradition of weaving. Hand woven Naga shawls find a market in India and abroad. Each tribe has distinguishing patterns and motifs and certain ceremonies are indicated in the weaving of these beautiful shawls.
Kohima : The capital of Nagaland,
Kohima is situated at an altitude of 1,495m. It is here from where the
Japanese retreated
during
the Second World War, and the War Cemetery here is a symbolic memorial
raised to honor the sacrifices made by the officers and soldiers during
the war. The Nagaland State Museum is a one-stop treasure house where one
can have a fascinating glimpse into the Naga tribal life. Kohima Village
or Barra Basti (Big Village) is where Kohima began according to Naga legend.
It is said to be the second largest village in Asia and has one of the
finest ceremonial gates.
Located at an altitude of 3,048m, Japhu Peak is the second highest peak in Nagaland and is 15 km from Kohima. It is ideal for trekking and the view of Kohima from here is breathtaking.
One of the best trekking spots of the state, Dzukou Valley at an attitude of 2,462m is just behind the Japfu Peak and is 30 km south of Kohima. White and yellow lilies and numerous other flowers adorn the valley in the summer, while rhododendrons ornament the hills surrounding the valley.
Tuophema Tourist Village : The tourist village of Tuophema is situated on a gentle hillock with panoramic views of the surrounding jungled valleys, 41 km north of Kohima on the National Highway 61.
The tourist village was an initiative from within the community of Tuophema, self funded and designed and built by the different 'khels' (clans) from within the village to showcase the traditional Angami hospitality, customs and culture. It is also the host village for the annual Angami Festival of Purification (Sekrenyi).
Khonoma Village : The picturesque village of Khonoma is 20 km away from Kohima and offers delightful views of Nagaland’s natural beauty and ecological diversity. The terraced fields, which produce 20 types of paddy at different elevations, present a beautiful view. The Khonoma gate relates the story of British infiltration into Naga hills.
Dimapur : Nagaland’s gateway town and an important trade and commerce center, it was once the kingdom of the Kachari rulers.
Mokokchung : The cultural center of the Ao Nagas, Mokokchung is located 160 km away from Kohima. The prowess of the Ao warriors is reflected in gorgeous red and black shawls with the white decorated band that signified their victory over their enemies.
Wokha : This region is the home
of the Lotha tribe. 
The
hilltop villages are studded with Monoliths (Longsu) erected by their ancestors
depicting their high status. The Lothas are known for their colorful dances
and folk songs.
Phek : Phek is the home of the Chakhesang tribe. The culture and the customs of the Chakhesang is very different from the other Nagas.
Zunheboto : Zunheboto
is
a cluster of hillocks where the Semas live. This martial race is renowned
for its war dance and folk songs.
Mon : Mon is 150km away from Kohima and the main center of the Konyak tribe. Here interesting thing to see are the tattooed faces wearing feathered headgear, crafts, and traditional dresses.
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