Moatsu is a spring festival and the tribal Naga people celebrate it with lots of colours, feasts, dance and music. The deeper you move into the countryside, the more authentic the celebrations become. This three-day festival is more than just a celebration of the harvest season. Locals use the occasion to clean their Tsubü or water wells, repair or construct new houses and most importantly, conduct spring weddings. The festivities take on a real jovial mood as the people sing love songs for the newlyweds and tributes to their heroes.

1. Celebrate India - Moatsu Festival
Of all the regions in India, the one that I have explored the least is the North East. Tucked away
in a corner of the eastern Himalayas lies the land of the Nagas or Nagaland. I have harboured
quite a fascination for this place since my hostel days when my classmates from Nagaland
would tell stories of the warrior tribes that still lived there. I have been able to visit the state
only once and that was
during the festival of
Moatsu.
Moatsu is a spring festival
and the tribal Naga people
celebrate it with lots of
colours, feasts, dance and
music. The deeper you
move into the countryside,
the more authentic the celebrations become. This three-day festival is more than just a
celebration of the harvest season. Locals use the occasion to clean their Tsubü or water wells,
repair or construct new houses and most importantly, conduct spring weddings. The festivities
take on a real jovial mood as the people sing love songs for the newlyweds and tributes to their
heroes.
The food is exceptional and free from any kind of city influence. Rice-beer flows all around
along with many authentic Naga delicacies. THAT’s how much fun the feasts are!
Nagaland is a small state and all major tourist attractions are relatively close to each other. The
entire state is a haven for rich bio-diversity; it’s a dream destination for nature lovers. Even
today, there are many places that remain untouched by popular tourism. In case you are feeling
truly adventurous, you can experience something truly unique that not many may have even
attempted before.
You can start with the Dzukou Valley, 30 km from the capital city of Kohima. It’s the ideal place
for trekking and camping as it is surrounded by natural caves, hills and rocks. The stream
flowing through the valley helps support hundreds, probably even thousands of species of
herbs, plants and flowers that make the valley look spectacular.
It may not be my cup of tea, but if you prefer a more organized experience, visit the Touphema
Tourist Village (41 km from Kohima). It’s situated on a hillock with panoramic views. The resort

2. offers all modern comforts in an ethnic setting and also arranges tours to nearby hills, rice
fields, hunting trips, cultural expeditions and visits to local homes. They have also recently
opened a museum. Kohima is home to the largest crucifix in Asia.
Well, there is a lot more to see. It’s a whole state, you know. But, I’m not going to go on and on
about it. This is where I will say good bye. But I’ll be back with yet another destination and a
whole new experience. Until then, take care and travel happy.
Ciao!
Joy.