The Northeastern state of Nagaland with its inimitable individuality always stands apart. Nagaland is a colourful land with impeccable culture and uncommon traditions. And this uniqueness is sufficient enough to inspire travellers to visit this land. Dimapur, Nagaland’s largest city and economic hub, is the perfect place to start your Nagaland adventure!
Dimapur, in the local Naga language, means “the city near a great river”. Over the years this city has developed into a modern Indian city but has still clung to its roots. There is a bit of history hidden in every corner of Dimapur! In the ancient times, this city serves as the capital for the Kachari rulers and there are many historic ruins from the glory days of this city. These historic sites have found a way to co-exist with the fast moving lifestyle of modern day Dimapur. But once you venture into the outskirts, you will find a drastic change. Remote hamlets, on the outskirts of Dimapur, are great examples of pristine beauty. They are inhabited by various tribes and you can spend some time with them and soak in their unique culture. So, below are some Dimapur tourism hotspots you must visit while in the city.
Dimapur tourist places you must definitely visit
Kachari Ruins (Kachari Rajbari)
The ruins of the once magnificent Kachari fortress are one of the must-visit Nagaland tourist places. The Kachari dynasty ruled this part of India from the 10th century onwards. Kachari Rajbari is situated close by the Dimapur railway station. The Kachari ruins constitute of various monoliths, remains of reservoirs, embankments, gates and temples. The biggest attraction of these ruins is the Mushroom shaped pillars that are scattered over a vast area. Nothing is known much about the utility or history of these pillars. However, some of the modern day historians believe these pillars were actually pieces of a gigantic chess board game!
Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary
Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary, situated on the outskirts of Dimapur, boasts of a unique diversity of animals. Some of the animals found in this forested area are truly unique. You get a scope to view the rare Hoolock Gibbons and Golden-tailed Langurs. During the winters this sanctuary turns into a birdwatchers heaven as it is visited by many rare birds including the White-breasted Hornbill, Black Stork and Pheasants. A special mention should also be made about the landscape of Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread across a hilly terrain, with streams gushing through and some flatlands, this park is marked by breathtaking beauty.
- Tip: There are certain designated areas within the wildlife sanctuary where you can camp out. If you are seeking some thrill out to spend a night under the starry skies and listen to the jungle choir!
Diezephe Crafts Village
Situated about 10 KM away from the heart of Dimapur, the Diezephe Crafts Village is run by the Nagaland Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited. This village was set up to preserve the traditional crafts and arts of Nagaland. Today the village houses expert weavers, craftsmen and handloom experts from the neighbouring towns. The Diezephe Crafts Village demonstrates a beautiful confluence of colours and traditions. Shopping at the Diezephe Crafts Village can be an exhilarating experience for tourists since there is a wide variety of traditional merchandise (ranging from traditional Naga attire to woollen garments) available here. You can pick up a trick or two on traditional weaving and crafts by attending the short classes offered specially for the tourists.
- Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM
- Trivia: The nearby village of Ruzaphema, hosts a colourful market where the local handicrafts are sold at low rates.
- Must taste: The street side restaurants near the Diezephe Crafts Village are the best places to taste some traditional Naga food.
Chumukedima Village
Situated some 14 KM from Dimapur city, this is an ancient village located on the foothills of the Naga Hills. During the British era, Chumukedima sprung into the limelight when it became the district headquarters of the Naga Hills district. Today, the village has become an important Dimapur tourist place due to its overall beauty and cultural showcase. The tourism department has built viewpoints on top of the hills that provide a bird’s eye view of the entire Dimapur city and other parts of adjoining Assam. The winding roads from Dimapur leading up to this village are filled with lush greenery and many beautiful waterfalls.
Green Park
As the name suggests, Green Park is filled with greenery and hosts a variety of flora. If you are a nature lover then this park will definitely rejuvenate your senses. For others, Dimapur Green Park is a great place to unwind and hang out. There is always a colourful assortment of flowers on display in this park. Tourists can also enjoy boating in the scenic lake situated within the park. While at Green Park do care to visit the elaborate Nursery maintained by the Horticulture department, and even take back some saplings from there.
- Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
- Tip: Do care to check out the restaurant in the park, it serves mouthwatering meals.
Dimapur Jain Temple
Situated in the heart of the city, this temple was built in 1947. The temple is one of the holiest Jain temples in India and it is thronged by devotees from across the country. The interiors of the temple have attractive architecture and glass work. There are statues of Lord Mahaveera, Lord Bahubali, Bharat Swami and Adinath within the temple. If you want some peaceful moments during your trip through Dimapur, then this temple is your go-to destination.
- Timings: 7 AM – 9 PM
Hong Kong Market
Dimapur is a perfect destination for the shopaholics, with its abundant shopping opportunities! The best among Dimapur’s shopping retreats is the Hong Kong Market. The market is always crowded with both locals and tourists, all year round. Shops at this market offer the trendiest fashion items from the Far East (Hong Kong, China, Japan and South Korea). You can shop for beautiful clothes, shoes and electronics items here. Many rare eatables from Myanmar and Thailand can also be purchased from the Hong Kong market.
- Tip: This is a great place to hone your bargaining skills. Bargaining often starts by quoting half of the asked price.
If you want to beat the same old on your next vacation trip, then Dimapur is your perfect getaway destination. Let RailYatri help you plan this trip with our garland of travel services.
?great write up
Nice . very helpful reference.
This is one of the best invitations ever…
It is informative and definitely tops my list of next travel destination…
Interesting!
Very well written article..
Interesting read. Can you suggest an itinerary for a 10 days trip to Nagaland
I have driven pass Dimapur but unfortunately I couldn’t explore the place. This article is very interesting and informative and will use it as reference when I visit Nagaland again.
Well written highlighting the details of the city. Dimapur means town near the river Dima. This gateway to Nagaland is only rail head in the state.
Well written article…….Not faraway from Kazirunga
Great read.