KOHIMA · NAGALAND

This state in North-East India, borders the state of Assam to the west, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam to the north, Myanmar to the east and Manipur to the south. The state capital is Kohima and the largest city is Dimapur. The state is inhabited by 16 tribes - Angami, Ao, Chakhesang, Chang, Kachari, Khiamniungan, Konyak, Kuki, Lotha, Phom, Pochury, Rengma, Sangtam, Sumi, Yimchunger and Zeme-Liangmai. Each tribe is unique in character with its own distinct customs, language and dress. Nagaland is largely a mountainous state. The Naga Hills rise from the Brahmaputra Valley in Assam to about 610 metres and rise further to the southeast, as high as 1,800 metres. Mount Saramati at an elevation of 3,841.00 metres is the state's highest peak; this is where the Naga Hills merge with the Patkai Range which form the boundary with Burma. Hornbill Festival showcases a mélange of cultural displays under one roof which takes place between 1 and 10 December every year. It is held at Naga Heritage Village, Kisama which is about 12 km from Kohima. All the tribes of Nagaland take part in this festival. The aim of the festival is to revive and protect the rich culture of Nagaland and display its history, culture and traditions.