I decided to spend a day in Kohima, the capital city of Nagaland With the opportunity to visit Nagaland frequently due to my in-laws residing near the Assam-Nagaland border. Kohima is renowned for its cultural richness and vibrant atmosphere. Setting off from Dimapur, we embarked on a journey that promised breathtaking views and a glimpse into the unique traditions of the Naga people.
Our journey commenced as we hopped into a shared taxi at Dimapur station, eager to reach the enchanting city of Kohima. As we traveled along the winding roads, we were embraced by the majestic mountains that stood tall, guarding the path. We couldn’t help but notice the construction of a new railway track, a testament to Nagaland’s progress, as it prepared to welcome its second railway station, apart from Dimapur.
After hours of traveling, we finally arrived in Kohima. Eager to experience the local culture, we made our way to the bustling dry vegetables market, where a myriad of ingredients awaited our attention. From various meats to insects that would make most people cringe, the Naga people fearlessly incorporated them into their traditional cuisine. We noticed sacks filled with dogs, a heartbreaking sight for a dog lover like myself, as dog meat is considered a delicacy in Naga cuisine. Although this aspect of their food culture saddened me, I respected their traditions. If you are interested to know more about Nagaland’s tradition and tribal culture, you can check out this post too.
Amidst the market chaos, we discovered street food vendors selling an array of delectable treats, including pork momos, beef dishes, frogs, snails, and even scorpions; insects, such as crickets and silkworm larvae. My wife, initially taken aback, chose to maintain a distance as we indulged in the flavorsome pork momos, which surpassed our expectations.The market showcased an assortment of dry vegetables, herbs, and spices used in Naga cooking. Also there we found traditional Naga handicrafts, such as woven baskets, bamboo products, and traditional clothing in the market.
Nagaland’s local markets are not only places to buy goods but also serve as social hubs where locals gather to interact, exchange news, and showcase their traditional attire. The markets offer a wide variety of indigenous fruits and vegetables, many of which are unique to the region. These include exotic finds like the sticky kiwi, wild apple, and king chilli, which is one of the hottest chili peppers in the world. Nagaland is known for its intricate and beautiful handwoven textiles. The local markets are the perfect place to find traditional Naga shawls, sarongs, and handcrafted garments, each with its own distinct tribal pattern and design. Traditional Naga jewelry, made from materials like beads, shells, and bones, is a sought-after item in the local markets. These adornments showcase the intricate craftsmanship and cultural significance of Naga jewelry traditions. Nagaland’s local markets are also a treasure trove for lovers of tribal arts and crafts. One can find exquisite wooden carvings, bamboo crafts, pottery, and tribal artifacts that display the artistic talents of the Naga people. The markets provide an opportunity to taste the unique flavors of Naga cuisine. Local delicacies like smoked meat, fermented bamboo shoots, dried fish, and various indigenous herbs and spices can be found, allowing visitors to explore the distinct flavors of the region.
Due to our late arrival, our plans to visit nearby attractions such as the Kohima War Cemetery and Kohima Cathedral Church had to be postponed. Unsure of where to spend the night, we ultimately decided to visit a relative in Phesama village, located about 30 minutes further into the heart of Nagaland. Excitement filled the air as we boarded a local taxi, eager to reconnect with family. Arriving at our relative’s residence, we were greeted with open arms and genuine warmth. The joyous reunion made our day in Kohima even more memorable, as we immersed ourselves in the local traditions and heartfelt conversations.
Our whirlwind day in Kohima, Nagaland’s capital, left an indelible mark on our hearts. From the stunning mountain views along the journey to the vibrant markets filled with unique ingredients, we experienced the rich tapestry of Naga culture. Although we missed out on certain attractions, the unexpected detour to our relative’s village added an extra layer of meaning to our visit. As we bid farewell to Kohima, we carried the cherished memories of this adventurous day, eager to return and explore more of Nagaland’s captivating beauty and traditions.
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