The Naga Tribes: A Guide to Nagaland's Cultures
The journal
Festivals · 6 min read · Jun 2026

The Naga Tribes: A Guide to Nagaland's Cultures

Nagaland is home to sixteen or more major tribes, each with its own language, dress, crafts and customs — a cultural richness that makes the state endlessly fascinating.

A mosaic of tribes

From the Angami and Ao to the Konyak — famed as former headhunters with facial tattoos — each tribe has a distinct identity, best appreciated in their villages and at the Hornbill Festival.

Living traditions

Morungs (traditional dormitories), wood carving, weaving and folk music remain living parts of Naga life, alongside a strong Christian identity.

  • 16+ major tribes
  • Distinct dress & dialects
  • Konyak headhunter heritage
  • Best experienced at Hornbill & in villages

We arrange respectful village visits and cultural tours across Nagaland — request net rates.

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