Nagaland – The Switzerland of the East
Introduction
Nagaland is located in the eastern part of India and was made late in the 60’s after almost all the states came into existence. It is situated below Arunachal Pradesh and is covered by Manipur in the south and Assam in the west. The state receives a heavy amount of rainfall from June to September and otherwise the weather is very pleasant throughout. Nagaland is a beautiful place with high peaks, vast forest lands and is filled with aesthetic beauty, that’s why it is often called – “The Switzerland of the East”.
Capital
Kohima is the capital of the state and has its name derived from a plant called ‘Kewhi’. Kohima has access to all types of transportation. The city is located at some height and modes of travelling the city are buses, auto and rickshaws.
Culture and lifestyle
The tribes in Nagaland are seen involved in various handicraft activities like pottery, woodcarving, black smithy and bamboo work. Major tribes of the state are Phom, Ao, Chang, Pochury, Sema, Rengma, Angami and many more. Various cottage industries like woodwork, weaving and Tourism is also a source of revenue for people.
Weather
The state experiences a humid subtropical climate where winters are cool and the summers are really hot and humid. During the winters, temperatures are quite low and frost and snowfall occurs at higher altitudes. In summers the temperatures shoot up to around 32 degrees and heavy rainfall is seen.
Major crops grown
Nagaland is a state where people earn their bread mainly through agricultural activities. The principal crops grown here are potatoes, rice, pulses, corn, tobacco, millets, corn, sugarcane, oilseeds and fibers. Jhumming cultivation is prevalent in the state which is now leading to the erosion of soil and loss of soil fertility.
Costumes and ornaments
The only prominent and widely seen dress of Nagaland is the shawl and it differs from tribes to tribes. Other than the shawl, the kilt is the dress worn by the males of the state.
Major festivals
Nagaland is a very small state and has few festivals that are mainly related to the agricultural activities such as the harvest of crops or the worship of Deities. People gather and celebrate the festivals with gaiety.
Tourist attractions
Places of interest in Nagaland reflect the rich cultural heritage of the state. Khonoma Gate is one such place which is a symbol of bravery of Khonoma village. The people had built the gate to get protection from the Britishers and this is the reason that people all across the world come to see it. Japfu Peak, Dzukou Valley, Tuli town Naginimora, Meluri and Changtongya are other famous places of the state which have aesthetic beauty and a positive vibe to rejuvenate the visitors coming here.
Famous personalities
Neiphiu Rio, former CM of Nagaland.
