I have just returned from the north-eastern state of Nagaland, for long a state affected by political violence and underdevelopment. Even before I left, friends and family expressed concerns over my decision to explore this volatile region. The usual expression was, Why Nagaland? I could not answer this before I left, but now I can.
For starters, safety is currently a non-issue. And hope it stays that way. I spoke to Government officials, Army and Police personnel, locals and other tourists – they all gave a thumbs up. They were not wrong.
And the state is beautiful and largely untouched. It is mountainous, with clouds and mist enveloping the peaks all the time – and often coming down to hug the people too. It is lush green – like any tropical forest. It is like the Himalayas meeting the Malabar coastline. And it was cold but not freezing – just the right kind to make it enjoyable.
The cherry on the top are the people – they are warm, fun loving and still leading very innocent and simple lives. The kind you will want as your friends. Yes, language is a barrier – but it never came in the way of my exchanging sweets for oranges from a street vendor. Or bananas with a lady weaving cloth at home in Khonoma.
Other places may have music, but Nagaland has the rhythm. Watch them dance to their traditional beats or to those from the west and you will know what I mean.
Infrastructure for travellers is still woefully lacking though: accommodation is basic at best. Roads can be bumpy in parts. Hiring cabs during peak season has to be planned in advance. If you are a vegetarian like me, food will figure in the plans only to keep you going. Of course, those with fewer qualms can choose from a variety of options unheard of in many other parts of India. But for the all roughs, Nagaland is more than worth all the effort.
I will be writing more about my experiences in the coming days and weeks – watch this space.
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Looking forward to read your experiences of the beautiful state…
Your travelogues have been extensively illustrative and I have been living your journeys vicariously thru the pics n posts. Great narratives. Hope to see you traveling to many more destinations and locales never been before.
Thanks Meenakshi, so good to hear such feedback. Hope you continue to enjoy reading the blog – and maybe we can plan some travels together. Cheers…
Sounds great! On my list of places to visit in India. Never been east of Sikkim…….
Wow!
The information in this blog seems to be quite interesting and it is also good.
The MakeMyTrip UAE travels would also provide the air facilities which may be required by the passengers who need to travel to nagaland. This air line facility is good compare to the other travel peoples.In nagaland you can see the traditinal peoples and good natures with large mountains.