Wild life and ecotourism in Nagaland

Wild life

Blue hills teeming with Flora, and Fauna and that too in complete isolation makes Nagaland one of the best destinations in India for wildlife lovers. Alluring, and attractive, there might be limited wildlife reserves in Nagaland but they unique fauna, hard to find anywhere else in India. When it comes to flora, worth noticing are 350 species of wild orchids that are grown here every year. Amongst all the wildlife reserves of Nagaland, the most prominent one is Ntangki National Park or Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary. Spread over 202.02 sq km, Ntangki National Park is home to species like Hoolock Gibbon, Palm Civets, Sloth Bear, Wild Dogs, Golden Langur, Tiger, Python, Flying Squirrel, and Monitor Lizard. It is also an amazing place to go for birdwatching. Pulie Badze Wildlife Sanctuary too is known for birdwatching tours. Adjacent to the two renowned peaks Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak of Nagaland, this high hill sanctuary is home rare and endangered Blyth’s Tragopan, a globally threatened bird and Dark-Rumped Swift. When it comes to birdwatching, Ghosu Bird Sanctuary should be included in the Nagaland wildlife itinerary too. Eight kilometers from Zunheboto district, Ghosu Bird Sanctuary is home to varied species like Spot-breasted Scimitar Babbler, Spot-breasted Scimitar, Rufescent Prinia, and Slaty-bellied Tesia. Next to Ghosu Bird Sanctuary are Aizuto Forests, which is an amazing place to go for birdwatching too. Another attractive wildlife tourism place that one must include on a wildlife tour in Nagaland will be Fakim Sanctuary, situated on the India-Myanmar border. Filled with meandering brooks, and narrow valleys, it is home to endangered species like tiger, slender, loris, panther, Himalayan bear, jungle cat barking deer, and hoolock gibbon. Attractive, uncharted, and mystic, these wildlife reserves are a must visit in Nagaland. Make a point to include Nagaland Zoological park in Dimapur a part of wildlife holiday too. A part of the Rangapahar Forest Reserve, it houses different varieties of Deers including Sambar Deer, Spotted Deer and Barking Deer to name a few.

Ecotourism

Tourism has tremendous EMPLOYMENT potential. It varies from that of highly trained managers of deluxe hotels to room boys, transport workers, sales girls, artisans and others. This activity has also a high potential for self-employment in a variety of ancillaries such as Horticulture-2/”>Horticulture, handicrafts, handlooms, guides etc. As an activity, tourism is highly suited to Women particularly, if they also have to look after their families and children as in the case in most developing countries. While tourism, also upgrades human skills, some of the skills required and promoted by this activity are not difficult to master.

The key Elements of Eco-Tourism include a natural Environment as the prime attraction, an optimum number of environment friendly visitors, activities which do not have any serious impact on the ecosystem and the positive involvement of the local community maintaining the ecological balance. Just as the World Tourism Organisation defines Eco-Tourism as “tourism practised in relatively undisturbed natural areas, for the main purpose of admiring and Learning about them”, Nagaland possesses enormous potential for the promotion of eco-tourism. Its landscapes, scenic beauty and friendly people make Nagaland an exotic Eco-Tourism destination. The entire rural areas of Nagaland have potential of becoming Eco-Tourism destinations. The prospect of Eco-Tourism in Nagaland is to educate the traveller about natural destinations to provide ecological conservations and awareness, to benefit economic developments, the political Empowerment of local communities and respect for the local culture.

Some of the best Eco-Tourism destination in Nagaland are as follows:

Doyang Hydro Project & the Amur Falcon Conservation

About 110 Km from Kohima Town, Doyang is one of the largest river in Nagaland. Several Hill streams fall into the river from the central and western parts and give it the most fascinating look. Hydel Dam has been constructed here. This project has a large quantity of water impounded in a Dam which is visible from many hilltop villages in the surrounding areas. It’s a home to varieties of fishes which are preserved and also serves as a daily bread for some fisherman in the nearby villages. Small wooden boats adorn the river for the purpose of fishing or to give a ride to interested tourist. Adding more to its beauty, there exist numerous mini and small Islands. Over the years, these place has become the roosting place of migratory birds Amur Falcon (Falco Amurensis), known to be one of the world’s longest-distance migratory birds as they travel up to a staggering 22,000 km a year. These birds arrive in Nagaland from Mongolia en route to South Africa. In Nagaland, they start arriving from the second week of October and roost in Doyang and some other places for 1 to 2 months.

Khonoma

The Green Village Located 20 km west from Kohima Town, Khonoma Village houses nature’s pristine beauty in the form of its alder trees and terraces carved out of its hilly slopes and the Khonoma Nature Tragopan Sanctuary (KNCTS). KNCTS conserves a large variety of rare species of Plants and animals within its 25 sq km area. This is almost a virgin territory for birdwatchers, animal watchers and botanists who have the entire area to explore and discover. A model village for Eco-Tourism, Khonoma is one of the cleanest villages in the entire Asian subcontinent. The beautiful terraces which are carved out of the hill slopes surrounding the village are sight to behold. These terraces grow over 40 different types of paddy at different elevations.

Dzukou

The Valley of Eternal Charm This valley of eternal charm with its emerald green rolling hills, interspersed by gentle flowing streams, is tucked away at an altitude of 2,438.4 metres. It lies about 30 km south of Kohima Town. This famous valley beckons the intrepid trekkers and is the highest visited by tourist all throughout the year. It is known for its pristine forests, beautifully landscaped green valleys, varieties of flora and fauna etc. During the months of June and September, the valley turns into a carpet of varieties of wild flowers, including white & yellow lilies, aconitum and euphonies. It is believed that more than 360 varieties of orchids grow on the hill sides. Come winter, Dzukou revels its other face as the meandering stream remains frozen, dry grass dominating the landscape which looks like a featureless desert. Besides the crystal clear water of the stream leisurely meandering through the valley, one can be completely at peace with nature. Though Dzukou valley is known for its Biodiversity-2/”>Biodiversity, especially rhododendrons, the predominant plant is the tough bamboo brush.

Shilloi Lake

Shaped like a footprint, Shilloi lake is located in Meluri is 300 km from Kohima. It is a beautiful natural lake and falls in a valley surrounded with pine forest and interesting landscapes. Migratory Siberian cranes visits this lake in the month of March to June, where the locals contributes their support for their hospitality stay. The lake is rich in varieties of fishes and the best season to fish is during the month from June to September. Also a folk tale is attached with this lake; the locals believe that a Queen reign over this lake and therefore no one has drowned from this lake till today. Many of the locals in this area survive with fishing as their livelihood which they sell in the markets, yet they do not harm the Eco-System or any intention to destroy the existence of the fishes in the lake. This lake is also learned to be one of the most Eco-Tourism destination in Nagaland throughout the year because the climatic condition in this area is favourable for any kind: either for picnics, trekking or to view the beauty of the lake.

Lohwo

The twin lake Located in Khezekhano village also known as the “Ancestral Village of the Nagas”, this lake is 55 km from Kohima town. Legends made us believed that this twin lake (Husband & Wife) was co-joined from below the small hillock that separates them from outside. One will be mesmerized with the beauty of how the lake stood there undisturbed, unknown yet so fresh and a folk tale behind its existence.

Saramati Peak

This peak has a height of 3841 meters and is the highest peak in Nagaland located on the Nagaland – Myanmar border in the district of Kiphire. The peak is covered with snow throughout the winter season. During the spring season the mountain offers a beautiful climb with views of Rhododendrons along the paths.

Ghosu Bird Sanctuary

Located 8 km away from Zunheboto town, this bird sanctuary is managed by the Village Community. It provides habitat to more than twenty species of endangered Avifauna (Local bird). Migratory birds are also sighted here between the months of June and September. The village community has strictly prohibited hunting and poaching animals and birds in that area and the nearby localities as well. This Village Community gains logistic support from the State Government towards the maintenance and preserving of the Sanctuary.,

Nagaland is a state in northeastern India that is home to a diverse range of wildlife. The state is home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Kaziranga National Park, the Manas National Park, and the Periyar Tiger Reserve. These Protected Areas are home to a variety of animals, including tigers, elephants, rhinoceroses, and leopards.

Nagaland is also home to a number of ecotourism destinations. These destinations offer visitors the opportunity to experience the state’s natural beauty and wildlife in a sustainable way. Some of the most popular ecotourism destinations in Nagaland include the Dzukou Valley, the Nokrek National Park, and the Wokha Wildlife Sanctuary.

Wildlife Conservation Efforts in Nagaland are carried out by the state government, as well as by a number of non-governmental organizations. These efforts focus on protecting the state’s wildlife and its habitats. Some of the most important wildlife conservation efforts in Nagaland include the anti-poaching campaign, the habitat restoration program, and the Education and awareness program.

Traditional Naga culture is closely linked to nature. The Naga people believe that all living things are interconnected and that humans have a responsibility to protect the environment. This belief is reflected in the Naga people’s traditional practices, such as their use of sustainable agriculture and their respect for sacred forests.

Tourism can have a positive or negative impact on wildlife and the environment. When done sustainably, tourism can help to raise awareness of the importance of conservation and can provide funding for conservation efforts. However, when not done sustainably, tourism can damage wildlife habitats and disrupt the lives of wild animals.

Sustainable tourism practices are those that minimize the negative impact of tourism on wildlife and the environment. Some of the most important sustainable tourism practices include:

Reducing the amount of pollution generated by tourism
Minimizing the impact of tourism on wildlife habitats
Providing economic benefits to local communities
Respecting the culture and traditions of local communities

The future of wildlife and ecotourism in Nagaland depends on the state government’s commitment to conservation and the cooperation of the local people. If the state government and the local people work together, they can ensure that Nagaland’s wildlife and its habitats are protected for future generations.

In addition to the above, here are some additional information about wildlife and ecotourism in Nagaland:

Nagaland is home to over 1,000 species of plants and animals, including many that are found nowhere else in the world.
The state’s wildlife sanctuaries and national parks are home to a variety of endangered species, such as the tiger, the elephant, and the rhinoceros.
Ecotourism in Nagaland is a growing Industry that provides jobs and income for local people.
The state government is committed to sustainable tourism and has developed a number of policies and programs to promote it.
The future of wildlife and ecotourism in Nagaland looks bright, as the state has a wealth of natural Resources and a strong commitment to conservation.

What is ecotourism?

Ecotourism is a form of tourism that involves visiting natural areas to learn about the environment and support conservation efforts. It is a sustainable form of tourism that minimizes its impact on the environment and benefits local communities.

What are the benefits of ecotourism?

Ecotourism can provide a number of benefits, including:

Economic benefits: Ecotourism can generate income for local communities and help to create jobs.
Environmental benefits: Ecotourism can help to raise awareness of environmental issues and support conservation efforts.
Social benefits: Ecotourism can help to promote cultural understanding and respect for local communities.

What are the challenges of ecotourism?

Ecotourism can also face a number of challenges, including:

Overcrowding: Ecotourism can lead to overcrowding in natural areas, which can damage the environment and disrupt wildlife.
Impact on local communities: Ecotourism can sometimes have a negative impact on local communities, such as by displacing people from their land or driving up prices.
Lack of regulation: Ecotourism is not always well-regulated, which can lead to problems such as poaching and habitat destruction.

What are some examples of ecotourism destinations?

Some examples of ecotourism destinations include:

The Galapagos Islands: The Galapagos Islands are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most popular ecotourism destinations in the world. The islands are home to a wide variety of unique wildlife, including giant tortoises, marine iguanas, and blue-footed boobies.
The Amazon rainforest: The Amazon rainforest is the largest rainforest in the world and is home to a vast array of plant and animal life. Ecotourism in the Amazon rainforest typically involves visiting indigenous communities, hiking through the rainforest, and spotting wildlife such as monkeys, sloths, and caimans.
The Serengeti National Park: The Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous national parks in the world and is home to a large Population of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and zebras. Ecotourism in the Serengeti typically involves game drives, walking safaris, and hot air balloon safaris.

What are some tips for responsible ecotourism?

Some tips for responsible ecotourism include:

Do your research: Before you travel, do your research to find an ecotourism company that is committed to sustainability and conservation.
Choose a sustainable destination: Choose a destination that is committed to ecotourism and Sustainable Development.
Support local businesses: When you are at your destination, support local businesses by buying souvenirs and eating at local restaurants.
Minimize your impact: Minimize your impact on the environment by packing Light, recycling, and conserving water.
Be respectful of local culture: Be respectful of local culture and customs.
Leave no trace: Leave no trace of your visit by packing out all of your trash and disposing of it properly.

Which of the following is not a state in India?
(A) Nagaland
(B) Mizoram
(C) Manipur
(D) Arunachal Pradesh
The capital of Nagaland is:
(A) Kohima
(B) Dimapur
(C) Mokokchung
(D) Tuensang
The Official Language of Nagaland is:
(A) English
(B) Hindi
(C) Naga
(D) Assamese
The Population of Nagaland is:
(A) 2 million
(B) 3 million
(C) 4 million
(D) 5 million
The Literacy rate of Nagaland is:
(A) 70%
(B) 80%
(C) 90%
(D) 100%
The main religion of Nagaland is:
(A) Christianity
(B) Hinduism-2/”>Hinduism
(C) Islam
(D) Buddhism-2/”>Buddhism
The main crops of Nagaland are:
(A) Rice
(B) Maize
(C) Wheat
(D) Tea
The main industries of Nagaland are:
(A) Agriculture
(B) Tourism
(C) Mining
(D) Manufacturing
The main tourist attractions of Nagaland are:
(A) The Nagaland Zoological Park
(B) The DzÃ¼ko Valley
(C) The Kisama Heritage Village
(D) All of the above
The best time to visit Nagaland is:
(A) During the winter (November-February)
(B) During the summer (March-May)
(C) During the monsoon (June-September)
(D) All year round