Travel Guide toNagaland

The people of Nagaland mainly comprise the Tibeto-Burman tribal communities. Some of the Naga tribes also inhabit the neighboring states of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur as well as the Sagain state of Myanmar. During the colonial British era, the tribal territory of the Nagas was administered differently as the colonial masters avoided interference in tribal affairs. This led to the preservation of their tribal culture. Few of the Naga tribes had earlier practiced headhunting as war trophies, which was later banned in the 1970s.

The Ao tribe of Mokokchung is one of the largest Naga tribes. The Aos became the first Naga tribe to be converted into Christianity by the Baptist Missionaries in 1872. The Angamis are natives of the capital Kohima, well known for their art, architecture, and colorful costumes. They also practice the interesting stone pulling ceremony where the entire village gathers and pulls a large monolith from the forest to their village. The Konyaks of the remote Mon district were known for their head-hunting traditions. Many Konyak villages are still governed by their Angh (king).

Each of these tribes can easily be recognized by their distinct costumes, architecture, and rituals. Though they are culturally different from one another, their mythical origins can be traced to the Living Stones of Khezakeno village, from where the tribes migrated in different directions. The Morung dormitory for bachelors is a common structure in all Naga villages. The long Log Drums are also a part of the indigenous culture of every Naga tribe.

The tribes of Nagaland produce some of the finest indigenous handicrafts in India. Handwoven shawls with patterns and colors varying among tribes, brass pendants symbolizing head-hunting trophy masks, beautiful beaded necklaces, cane baskets, and elaborately carved village gateways — the artistry of the Naga tribes is extraordinary.