Khonoma Village – Asia’s First Green Village Near Hornbill Festival
If you’re planning a trip to Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival, there’s one place you simply shouldn’t miss Khonoma Village, often called Asia’s First Green Village. Just 20 km from Kohima, this peaceful hamlet is where tribal traditions meet eco-conscious living, where ancient warrior stories blend with a modern commitment to sustainability.
Khonoma isn’t just another tourist stop it’s a living example of how a community can turn history, hardship, and harmony into a model for the future.
Where Time Slows Down: The Story of Khonoma
Tucked amidst the misty hills of Nagaland, Khonoma belongs to the Angami Naga tribe one of the most respected and culturally rich communities in the region.
In the 19th century, Khonoma was known as the “last warrior village.” The Angami warriors fiercely defended their land against the British, and remnants of those battles still echo through stone memorials and oral legends passed down generations.
But the story didn’t stop there. In the late 20th century, Khonoma faced another kind of crisis the vanishing forests and wildlife due to excessive hunting. Realizing what was being lost, the villagers did something extraordinary.
In 1998, Khonoma declared 20 square kilometers of forest as a no-hunting zone, creating the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary (KNCTS) home to the rare Blyth’s Tragopan, Nagaland’s state bird.
This remarkable community initiative transformed Khonoma into India’s first officially recognized “Green Village” in 2005.
It’s not just a title it’s a lifestyle.
Suggested Itinerary: Hornbill Festival 2025
The Green Way of Life
When you walk through Khonoma, everything feels intentional the neatly arranged stone paths, bamboo fences, organic terraces, and the smiles of people who take immense pride in their village.
Here, sustainability isn’t a trend, it’s tradition.
- The villagers grow organic crops on hand-built terraced fields.
- Waste is segregated and plastic is banned.
- Water comes from clean mountain springs.
- Every household participates in community conservation.
There’s no chaos here just balance. Nature is part of daily life, and the people protect it as fiercely as their ancestors once protected their land.
Things to See & Do in Khonoma
1. Village Heritage Walk
Start with a guided village walk through Khonoma’s narrow lanes. Your local guide often a village youth will share stories about tribal customs, clan traditions, and architecture.
You’ll see traditional Angami houses made of wood and bamboo, each with symbolic animal skulls hanging above the doors (a remnant of their hunter past).
At every turn, there’s a story of war, courage, or conservation.
2. Khonoma Nature Conservation & Tragopan Sanctuary
Spread over 20 square kilometers, this sanctuary is one of India’s finest examples of community-led conservation.
You can trek through the lush forest trails, spot rare birds like Blyth’s Tragopan, or simply soak in the serenity of untouched wilderness.
If you’re a photographer or nature lover, this is heaven.
3. Terraced Paddy Fields
Just outside the village, endless green terraces step gracefully down the hills. The villagers cultivate traditional rice varieties, vegetables, and spices all organic.
Visit during the harvest season, and you’ll see fields glowing gold in the sun, framed by forested hills pure poetry in motion.
4. Crafts, Weaving & Local Handicrafts
Khonoma’s artisans are known for bamboo crafts, hand-woven shawls, and cane baskets. These crafts not only preserve tradition but also support sustainable livelihoods.
If you’re visiting, pick up a hand-woven mekhela or a bamboo basket it’s a beautiful way to take a piece of Khonoma home.
5. Stay with the Locals
The best way to experience Khonoma is through homestays. Many villagers open their homes to travelers, offering simple yet warm hospitality.
You’ll share local meals like smoked pork, rice, bamboo shoot curry, and fresh vegetables cooked with care.
At night, sit around a hearth, sip local rice beer, and listen to stories that never made it to history books.
Nearby Attractions by Khonoma Village
If you’re in Nagaland for the Hornbill Festival at Kisama Heritage Village, Khonoma is just a short drive away.
- Kohima War Cemetery: A moving WWII memorial, beautifully maintained.
- Dzüleke Village: Known for eco-tourism and trout streams.
- Kigwema & Jakhama: Charming traditional villages close to Kisama.
- Japfu Peak: For trekkers, it offers stunning panoramic views of Nagaland’s rolling hills.
Khonoma fits perfectly into your Hornbill Festival itinerary a calm, green escape from the vibrant energy of the festival.
Suggested Itinerary: Nagaland Tour Package
How to Reach Khonoma
By Air: The nearest airport is Dimapur, about 70 km away. From there, hire a cab or take a shared taxi to Kohima (2.5 hours), and another 45 minutes to Khonoma.
By Road: From Kohima, you can rent a cab (around ₹3000 for a day trip) or a local taxi. The drive itself is breathtaking winding roads through pine forests and mist-covered hills.
By Train: Dimapur Railway Station is the nearest railhead.
Best Time to Visit
October to April – Pleasant weather, perfect for walking and exploring.
December – Combine your visit with the Hornbill Festival.
Monsoon (June–August) – The hills turn lush green but expect heavy rain and occasional roadblocks.
Where to Stay & Eat
You can choose between:
- Homestays in Khonoma: Simple, clean, and locally managed.
- Hotels in Kohima: If you prefer comfort and plan to visit Khonoma as a day trip.
There are a few small cafés in the village serving local dishes. Always try smoked meat, Axone (fermented soybeans), and sticky rice Nagaland’s authentic flavors.
Responsible Travel Tips
Khonoma thrives because of its community discipline. As visitors, let’s respect that.
✅ Don’t litter or use plastic.
✅ Ask before taking photos of locals.
✅ Dress modestly in villages.
✅ Support local businesses buy crafts directly from artisans.
✅ Hire local guides for walks it supports youth employment.
When you travel consciously, you become part of Khonoma’s conservation story.
Why Visit Khonoma
Because it’s more than just a destination it’s an experience.
Khonoma teaches you that true progress doesn’t mean leaving traditions behind it means living in harmony with them.
It’s a reminder that sustainability isn’t built in boardrooms; it’s nurtured in small communities that respect their roots, rivers, and forests.
So next time you plan your trip to the Hornbill Festival, take that extra day.
Walk through Khonoma’s stone paths.
Breathe in the crisp air.
Listen to the silence it’s the sound of a village that chose peace over profit.
Final Thoughts
Khonoma Village is not just a place you visit it’s a place that changes how you think about travel, culture, and conservation.
It’s quiet, green, and inspiring everything you’d want after the energy of the Hornbill Festival.
When you leave Khonoma, you don’t just carry photos you carry a lesson:
“Protecting nature is the most beautiful tradition of all.”
FAQ
Q1. Why is Khonoma called Asia’s first green village?
Khonoma earned the title because it was the first village in Asia to ban hunting and logging completely. The community established the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary (KNCTS) in 1998 to protect endangered species like the Blyth’s Tragopan. This sustainable initiative led to its official recognition as India’s first Green Village in 2005.
Q2. Where is Khonoma Village located?
Khonoma lies about 20 kilometers west of Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, in Northeast India. It sits at an altitude of roughly 1,200 meters (3,900 ft), surrounded by lush hills, terraced fields, and dense forest.
Q3. How can I reach Khonoma from Kohima or the Hornbill Festival venue?
You can hire a taxi or local shared cab from Kohima or Kisama Heritage Village (Hornbill Festival venue). The drive takes about 45 minutes through scenic mountain roads. Taxis can be hired for ₹2,500 – ₹3,000 for a day trip.
Q4. What’s the best time to visit Khonoma?
The best time to visit Khonoma is October to April, when the weather is pleasant, skies are clear, and fields are green.
If you’re visiting the Hornbill Festival (Dec 1–10), Khonoma makes the perfect day or overnight trip.
Q5. Do I need any permits to visit Khonoma?
Yes, foreign tourists require the Protected Area Permit (PAP) to visit Nagaland, while Indian nationals may need an Inner Line Permit (ILP). These are easily available online or from Nagaland House offices in major Indian cities like Delhi, Kolkata, and Guwahati.
Q6. What are the top things to do in Khonoma?
➾ Take a guided village heritage walk
➾ Visit the Khonoma Nature Conservation & Tragopan Sanctuary
➾ Explore the terraced paddy fields
➾ Experience Angami tribal culture
➾ Shop for handicrafts and handwoven shawls
➾ Stay with locals in eco-homestays
➾ Try traditional Naga cuisine cooked with bamboo shoots, smoked meat, and local herbs
Q7. What is the culture of Khonoma Village like?
Khonoma belongs to the Angami Naga tribe, known for their bravery, hospitality, and strong community ethics. The village still practices a traditional council system, celebrates harvest festivals, and blends ancient customs with modern sustainability practices.
Q8. Can I stay overnight in Khonoma?
Yes! Several eco-homestays and small guesthouses run by villagers welcome guests. Staying overnight gives you time to explore the sanctuary, interact with locals, and experience the peaceful rhythm of rural Nagaland life.
Q9. What kind of food can I expect in Khonoma?
You’ll enjoy authentic Naga cuisine fresh, organic, and flavorful. Popular dishes include:
➾ Smoked pork with bamboo shoot
➾ Axone (fermented soybean curry)
➾ Sticky rice and yam
➾ Wild vegetables and herbs
Vegetarians will find plenty of simple, healthy options too.
Q10. What makes Khonoma different from other villages in Nagaland?
While many Naga villages are culturally rich, Khonoma stands out for its complete commitment to eco-friendly living. It is self-sustaining, plastic-free, community-governed, and has become a model for eco-tourism in Northeast India.
Q11. Is Khonoma safe for solo travelers or women travelers?
Absolutely. Khonoma has one of the lowest crime rates in the region, and villagers are warm, honest, and respectful. Many solo and female travelers report feeling completely safe while exploring the village.
Q12. How long should I spend in Khonoma?
If you’re short on time, you can do a half-day or full-day trip from Kohima. But to truly experience its tranquility, culture, and people, it’s worth spending 1–2 nights in a local homestay.
Q13. What festivals are celebrated in Khonoma?
Apart from participating in the Hornbill Festival, Khonoma celebrates local events like Sekrenyi, the Angami tribe’s purification festival held in February, featuring rituals, songs, and traditional games.
Q14. Are there any trekking or adventure activities near Khonoma?
Yes, the area around Khonoma offers gentle hikes and forest treks in the Tragopan Sanctuary. You can also take a scenic trek to Dzüleke Village, another eco-friendly hamlet nearby. Birdwatching and landscape photography are popular activities here.
Q15. Why should I add Khonoma to my Hornbill Festival itinerary?
Because Khonoma complements the Hornbill Festival beautifully. After enjoying the vibrant music, dance, and colors of Kisama, Khonoma offers peace, nature, and authenticity a chance to understand the real Nagaland beyond the festival grounds.