Tuensang is a district located in the northeastern state of Nagaland, India. It is the largest district in Nagaland and is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Here are some of the top attractions and things to do in Tuensang:
Changsangmongko – This is a traditional village of the Chang tribe and is known for its unique wooden carvings and architecture. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and traditions.
Longtrok – This is a picturesque village located on the slopes of a hill, and it offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The village is known for its stone monoliths, which are believed to have been erected by the ancestors of the local tribe.
Tsadang – This is a historic village that was once the capital of the Chang tribe. It is home to the Changsangmonko monument, which is the tallest stone monument in Nagaland.
Dikhu River – This is a scenic river that flows through Tuensang district and offers excellent opportunities for fishing and boating.
Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary – This sanctuary is located near the India-Myanmar border and is home to a variety of wildlife such as tigers, leopards, and elephants.
Noklak – This is a picturesque town located on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The town is known for its orange orchards and is a popular destination for trekking and hiking.
Local Markets – Tuensang is known for its colorful markets, where you can find a variety of local handicrafts and souvenirs.
By visiting these attractions and experiencing the local culture and traditions, visitors can have a memorable and enjoyable experience in Tuensang.
Best Time To Visit Tuensang
The best time to visit Tuensang is from October to May. During this period, the weather is pleasant and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 25°C. The monsoon season in Tuensang starts from June and lasts until September, and during this time, the region receives heavy rainfall, which can disrupt travel plans and make it difficult to explore the area.
The months of October to May are ideal for outdoor activities such as trekking, hiking, and sightseeing. The weather is dry and pleasant, and the landscapes are lush and green, making it a great time to explore the region’s natural beauty.
Moreover, several festivals are celebrated in Tuensang during this period, such as the Tsokum festival in December, which is celebrated by the Chang tribe and is a great opportunity to experience the local culture and traditions.
In summary, the best time to visit Tuensang is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant, and the region is at its most vibrant. However, it’s essential to check the weather forecast before planning your trip, especially during the winter months when temperatures can drop significantly, and snowfall is possible in some areas.
Things to Do in Tuensang
Tuensang is a district located in the northeastern Indian state of Nagaland. It is a beautiful place to visit, with plenty of natural and cultural attractions to explore. Here are some things to do in Tuensang:
Visit the Longtrok village: Longtrok is a picturesque village located in Tuensang district, and it is known for its unique and traditional architecture. The houses in Longtrok are built in a circular pattern around a central courtyard, and they are made of wood and bamboo. The village also has a beautiful viewpoint that offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills.
Explore the Changsangmonko village: Changsangmonko is another scenic village in Tuensang district, known for its beautiful landscapes and unique culture. The village is home to the Chang tribe, and you can learn about their customs and traditions by visiting the local museum and interacting with the villagers.
Go trekking in the hills: Tuensang district is surrounded by beautiful hills and forests, making it an ideal destination for trekking and hiking enthusiasts. You can explore the trails and enjoy the stunning views of the mountains, valleys, and waterfalls.
Visit the Noklak Wildlife Sanctuary: The Noklak Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Tuensang district and is home to a variety of flora and fauna. You can take a jeep safari to explore the sanctuary and spot animals like deer, leopards, and bears.
Attend the Aoling Festival: The Aoling Festival is a popular cultural event celebrated by the Konyak tribe in Tuensang district. The festival is held in April and includes traditional dances, music, and feasting.
Visit the Tuensang Park: The Tuensang Park is a beautiful park located in the heart of Tuensang town. The park is home to a variety of flowers, trees, and shrubs, making it a great place to relax and unwind.
Learn about local handicrafts: Tuensang district is known for its unique handicrafts, including bamboo and cane products, pottery, and weaving. You can visit local markets and workshops to learn about the traditional methods used to make these handicrafts.
Enjoy the local cuisine: Nagaland has a rich and diverse cuisine, and Tuensang district is no exception. You can try local dishes like smoked pork, bamboo shoot pickle, and boiled vegetables with chutney at local restaurants and cafes.
How to get around in Tuensang
Getting around in Tuensang can be a bit challenging as there are no public transportation options like buses or trains available. However, there are some ways to travel around the town and its nearby areas:
Private Taxis: Private taxis are available for hire in Tuensang, and they are the most convenient way to travel around the town and nearby areas. You can find them at the taxi stands or arrange for one through your hotel or guesthouse.
Shared Taxis: Shared taxis are also available in Tuensang and are a cheaper option than private taxis. They usually operate on fixed routes and pick up passengers along the way. You can find shared taxis at the taxi stands or inquire about them at your hotel or guesthouse.
Motorcycles: If you’re comfortable riding a motorcycle, you can rent one from a local shop and explore Tuensang and its nearby areas on your own. However, be aware that the roads in the region can be narrow and hilly, so it’s essential to take precautions while riding.
Walking: Tuensang is a small town, and you can explore its local markets and landmarks on foot. It’s an excellent way to get a feel for the town’s culture and lifestyle.
Jeep Safari: If you plan to explore the nearby wildlife sanctuary or take a trekking tour, you can arrange for a jeep safari with a local tour operator. It’s a fun and adventurous way to explore the natural beauty of the region.
Where to eat in Tuensang
Tuensang is a small town in Nagaland, India, and it is known for its unique and delicious cuisine. Here are some of the best places to eat in Tuensang:
Hotel Saramati: Hotel Saramati is a popular restaurant in Tuensang that serves authentic Naga cuisine. Their menu includes dishes like smoked pork, bamboo shoot pickle, and boiled vegetables with chutney.
Okheying Kitchen: Okheying Kitchen is a small eatery located in Tuensang town that serves delicious Naga and Indian food. Their menu includes dishes like chicken curry, dal, and rice.
The Taste: The Taste is another popular restaurant in Tuensang that serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Their menu includes dishes like fried rice, noodles, and curries.
Kekhrie’s Kitchen: Kekhrie’s Kitchen is a small restaurant located in Tuensang town that serves traditional Naga dishes like smoked pork, bamboo shoot pickle, and axone curry.
Tuensang Park Restaurant: Tuensang Park Restaurant is located inside the Tuensang Park and serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Their menu includes dishes like fried rice, noodles, and curries.
Sam’s Bistro: Sam’s Bistro is a small restaurant located in Tuensang town that serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Their menu includes dishes like momos, fried rice, and noodles.
Hotel Mansion: Hotel Mansion is a popular restaurant in Tuensang that serves delicious Naga and Indian food. Their menu includes dishes like chicken curry, dal, and rice.
New Kitchen: New Kitchen is a small restaurant located in Tuensang town that serves a variety of Indian and Chinese dishes. Their menu includes dishes like fried rice, noodles, and curries.
Famous street stalls in Tuensang
As a small town, Tuensang doesn’t have many street food stalls. However, here are some popular street stalls in Tuensang that you should try:
Pork Barbecue: Pork barbecue is a popular street food in Tuensang, and you can find many stalls selling it. The pork is marinated in local spices and then grilled to perfection. It’s a must-try for meat lovers.
Smoked Meat: Tuensang is known for its smoked meat, which is prepared by smoking the meat over a fire for several hours. You can find small stalls selling smoked meat in the local markets and street corners.
Bhel Puri: Bhel Puri is a popular snack in Tuensang, and you can find small stalls selling it in the local markets. It’s a mixture of puffed rice, vegetables, and spices, and it’s a great option for vegetarians.
Momos: Momos are a popular street food in Tuensang, and you can find many small stalls selling them in the local markets. They are a type of steamed dumpling filled with vegetables or meat.
Tea Stalls: Tea stalls are a common sight in Tuensang, and you can find them on almost every street corner. They serve hot tea and snacks like biscuits and samosas.
Fruit Stalls: Fruit stalls are also popular in Tuensang, and you can find them in the local markets. They sell a variety of local fruits like oranges, bananas, and pineapples.
Grilled Fish: Grilled fish is a popular street food in Tuensang, and you can find small stalls selling it in the local markets. The fish is marinated in local spices and then grilled over a fire. It’s a must-try for seafood lovers.
Where to stay in Tuensang
Luxury accommodation
As a small town in Nagaland, Tuensang does not have many luxury accommodation options. However, here are some of the best luxury hotels and resorts in the nearby areas that you can consider:
The Heritage, Kohima: The Heritage is a luxury hotel located in Kohima, about 3 hours’ drive from Tuensang. It offers well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, a spa, and a fitness center.
Grandeur Hotel, Kohima: Grandeur Hotel is another luxury hotel located in Kohima, offering spacious rooms and suites, a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center.
Hotel Vivor, Kohima: Hotel Vivor is a luxurious hotel located in Kohima, offering well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, a bar, and a fitness center.
Whispering Wind Bamboo Cottage, Phek: Whispering Wind Bamboo Cottage is a luxury resort located in Phek, about 4 hours’ drive from Tuensang. It offers well-appointed cottages, a restaurant, and a bar.
Dzukou Valley Resort, Viswema: Dzukou Valley Resort is a luxurious resort located in Viswema, about 3 hours’ drive from Tuensang. It offers well-appointed rooms and cottages, a restaurant, and a bar.
Please note that the road conditions in the region can be challenging, so it’s essential to plan your travel accordingly. It’s recommended to book your accommodations in advance to ensure availability.
Where to stay in Tuensang
Budget accommodation
Tuensang is a small town in Nagaland, India, and it offers limited options for budget accommodations. Here are some of the best budget accommodations in Tuensang:
Tourist Lodge: Tourist Lodge is a government-run budget accommodation in Tuensang that offers basic rooms and amenities. It’s located in the town center, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Sao Chang College Guest House: Sao Chang College Guest House is another budget accommodation option in Tuensang that offers basic rooms and amenities. It’s located near Sao Chang College, making it a convenient option for students and budget travelers.
Hotel Mansion: Hotel Mansion is a popular budget hotel in Tuensang that offers well-appointed rooms and amenities. It’s located in the town center, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Hotel Teiphe: Hotel Teiphe is another budget accommodation option in Tuensang that offers basic rooms and amenities. It’s located near the Tuensang market, making it a convenient option for budget travelers.
Guest House Kevitso: Guest House Kevitso is a budget guest house located in Tuensang that offers basic rooms and amenities. It’s located near the Tuensang market, making it a convenient option for budget travelers.
Please note that the budget accommodations in Tuensang may have limited amenities and services compared to luxury accommodations. It’s recommended to book your accommodations in advance to ensure availability.
Travel Tips Tuensang
Here are some travel tips for visiting Tuensang:
Plan your trip in advance: As Tuensang is a small town in Nagaland, it’s important to plan your trip in advance. Check the weather conditions and road conditions before you travel, and book your accommodations and transportation in advance.
Respect local customs and traditions: Tuensang is home to several indigenous Naga tribes, and it’s important to respect their customs and traditions. Dress modestly, avoid public displays of affection, and ask for permission before taking photographs of locals.
Try the local cuisine: Nagaland is known for its unique and delicious cuisine, so don’t miss the opportunity to try local dishes like smoked meat, bamboo shoot pickle, and fermented soybeans.
Be prepared for limited amenities: Tuensang is a small town, and you may not find all the amenities and facilities you’re used to. It’s important to pack accordingly and be prepared for limited options.
Carry cash: Credit card and ATM facilities may not be widely available in Tuensang, so it’s recommended to carry cash for your expenses.
Respect nature and wildlife: Tuensang is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and natural attractions, so it’s important to respect the local flora and fauna. Avoid littering and disturbing the wildlife.
Learn some basic phrases in the local language: The local dialects in Nagaland can be challenging to understand, but learning some basic phrases in the local language can help you communicate with the locals and show your respect for their culture.