Mokukchung, Nagaland

It is a town in Northern Nagaland not far from the Assam – Nagaland border. It is a century-old hub of activity, a town of the Ao Naga tribal people. The Mokukchung town is situated at an altitude of 1350 meters and is rich in inherited traditions. The town used to be a part of Assam during the British period. The village is the most important urban centre in northern Nagaland both economically and politically. According to the 2011 census, the population of Mokukchung is almost 2 lakh. Mokukchung is famous for its expansive Christmas and New Year celebrations.

Getting There

The distance between Mokukchung and Kohima is 150 kilometres. In Mokukchung there is no Railway Station or Airport, the only option is to travel here by vehicle such as a local cab or shared taxi. Tourists can take a local cab or taxi from Dimapur [237 kilometres] or Dibrugarh Railway Station. Sivasagar in Assam is the nearest major town at a distance of about 145 km (4.5 hours).

Sightseeing

Baptist Mother Church

Located middle of the village it is a very large church. It is also called the Mokukchung church or Mother church. The church was opened on 14th August 1938 and initially, it was constructed with thatched roofs and bamboo, the church started its journey with just 5 people. The church is famous as well as an attractive tourist attraction. Tourists can also experience the refreshingly cool weather outside, and the holiness of the church.

Ungma Village

This is another large, old and historical village of Nagaland and like Mokakchung, this village is also a home for the Ao tribe. The village is the birthplace of the Ao tribe and also one of the more developed villages in the state. According to the 2011 census, the population of the village is about 10 thousand. The village is divided into two parts one is  Yimpang and another is Yimlang. Tourists can enjoy the beautiful watchtower and the breathtaking scenery from the top.

Chuchuyinlang Village

The village of Mokukchung, Nagaland is famous for Moatsu Festival. It is also mostly known for tribal festivals and for personifying the beauty of nature. Longzung mopu, Teyong mopu, Impang mopu, and Imlang Mopu are the four parts of the village.

Longkhum

The clean and quiet historic village is surrounded by Rhododendrons and offers a panoramic view of Naga hills. You can observe the Naga Ao people in their natural surroundings here. It is located 1846 meters above sea level and is at a distance of about 17 / 18 kilometres from Mokukchung village. Handicraft and handloom products are found in the village.

Langpangkong Caves

One of the most popular attractions of the Mokukchung district is these caves. It takes a couple of hours to reach here from Mokukchung town. Tourists can explore the caves with the help of a local guide. The cave is situated in Langpangkong hills and the Dikhu and Tzula Rivers.

Moatsu Festival

In the month of May 1st to 3rd, the Ao tribe people organise the Moatsu Festival for bonding of community, recreation, and hope for a good harvest. On this day locals express their friendship and exchange gifts. During the festivals, the Ao people perform traditional dance performances. This festival is celebrated in the whole of Nagaland.

Local people

Mokukchung village is the home of the Ao people. The village preserves the Ao culture, old customs, and traditions. Most of the tribal people have now converted to Christianity. Ao tribe's main occupation is horticulture and agriculture. Jhum cultivation is widely practised by the tribals here.

Local Weather

Mokukchung village is situated at a height of 1350 meters above sea level. This leads to relatively pleasant weather in the area almost throughout the year. Summers are not very hot and winters are not very cold either. As in the rest of North East India, the monsoon is very heavy and rainfall is very common here.