Know Northeast India | Nagaland’s Khonoma village

KOHIMA | Sept 07, 2020:

India, an endless treasure of spectacular travel destinations that we haven't even begun exploring for its potential yet. In every corner, if you went looking, you'd find a gem that will even blow expensive European holidays right out of the water. Another such paradise is right at home.

Khonoma, a quaint village in Nagaland that got its name from a local aromatic plant known as 'Khwuno" and for years it has been the stronghold of the Angamese 'head-cutters' warriors, who resisted until 1880 against the British invader. During the British colonisation, for practical reasons of language, it was renamed Khonoma.

Khonoma reflects all that is pure and blissful about nature in all its unrestrained glory, however, this place has limited rail and air connectivity (the nearest airport and railway station is in Dimapur) – but this certainly ensures a truly stunning drive there. The fact that you need a special license to visit the town makes it a little less accessible and a lot more intriguing.

Located in Dzukou Valley, no more than 20 km from the Kohima, the village is a hilly kingdom at an altitude of 5,320 feet above sea level.

The unpaved and uphill road leading to Khonoma offers the most stunning view of the valley. The village itself is a green-covered paradise with emerald paddy fields carpeting the land and small streams flowing through these fields.

Khonoma is a 700-year-old village inhabited by the Angami tribe whose men are renowned for their bravery and martial acumen. The terraced paddy fields the tribe's cultivated over the generations are among the oldest in the region.

They celebrate the village's birthday on September 1, so when you plan your trip make sure a calendar that date in, to not miss out on the fabulous celebrations.