MON
Nagaland is a spectacular Indian state which is blessed with natural beauty and scenic glamour in abundance. Mon, is one such breath-taking location which is cozily embedded in the heart of Nagaland. Konyaks are the main tribes of this region. The tattoos on their faces and body and piercings differentiate them from the other tribes.
Shangnyu village located in Mon district is well-known for its wonderful wood carvings. Experienced and expert artisans bring out marvelous carvings out of wood making use of elementary tools such as hand drill, chisel and local dao. This place also serves as a living museum for anthropologists to research more on the culture and customs of the present population and also to understand the life cycle of their ancestors. Skull exhibits can be seen in places such as Sheanghachingnyu, Langmeang and Longwa. Remnants of the deadly World War II and stone imprints can be seen in Ngupdang, Chiknyuho, Shawot and Longwa
Apart from treating history lovers, Mon also provides sumptuous feast to the nature buffs with its cool and salubrious weather. Tizit, Teyab and Dikhu rivers are perfectly placed on a natural setting and leave the onlookers mesmerized. These places are the perfect corridors to spend quality time with friends/family happily. Yetyong, Kaimang, Maksha and Thannyak with trout fishing facilities allow people to enjoy the activity along with feeding on the nature’s gift. Pessao, Yongkao and Tamkong are bird-lovers delight.
Naginimora, Veda peak and Chenloisho Village are the other major stop-over destinations.
PLACES TO SEE
Naginimora : This is a spectacular location located in Kongan village and is the one and the only coal mine established in 1907 by the English East India Company. Being 60 kms away from Mon it offers breath-taking views of the near-by spectacles.
Longwa Village : This is an interesting and amazing village. Half of the village lies in India and the other half is controlled by Myanmar. The village is ruled by Angh/chief. The people here are considered to be citizens of India as well as Myanmar. Tegi, Tapi, Tejak and Shumnyu are the rivers flowing here. Both Indian and Myanmar schools can be found here.
Shangnyu Village : Shangnyu village located in Mon district is well-known for its wonderful wood carvings. Experienced and expert artisans bring out marvelous carvings out of wood making use of elementary tools like hand drill, chisel and local dao. It is also a delight to watch 500 year old big wooden carving incorporated in front of Angh’s house. Its height is 190 feet approximately.
Veda Peak : Is about 70 kms away from Mon and registers a highest point in its surroundings. Clear view of the roaring Bhramaputa and Burma is obtained on a bright sunny day. The British first set up their camp and also planted opium here. Gurgling waterfalls originating from this mountain provides an enthralling effect with its gushing pure white waters.
Chenloisho Village : This village consists of a small museum and the skull of a human head displayed here provides strong proof of the head hunting being practiced by the tribes in this region. Ornaments, weapons and articals are also exhibited here.
HOW TO REACH
By Air : Dimapur is a major airway hub which is located close by.
By Road : The major cities like Kohima and Dimapur are located 370 and 300kms away from Mon. Taxis and buses run between these cities. Flight, train or bus to the other major cities can be boarded at Dimapur and Kohima.
By Train : Dimapur is the major railway station.