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Hongphoi Village: A Journey Through Nagaland’s Headhunter Country

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If you’re on the hunt for the last surviving headhunters of Nagaland, a visit to Hongphoi Village is an absolute must. Located just 10-12 km from Mon town, this enchanting village is home to a large population of headhunters and offers a unique glimpse into the region’s fascinating past. 

Hongphoi Village is also the home of the Konyak Naga tribe, one of the many ethnic groups that call Nagaland home. The Konyak Naga are known for their bravery and head-hunting traditions. The head hunters are marked with a tattoo because of many reasons for their bravery.  

Along with Longwa, Hongphoi is one of the most sought-after villages to meet last generations of headhunter. During our quest to find the tattooed headhunters of Longwa, we made sure to include a stop at Hongphoi Village the next day, in the hope of discovering even more of these legendary figures. Check our guide to visit Longwa village in Nagaland.

While the language barrier can be a challenge when exploring the village, we recommend bringing along a local interpreter or guide to help you navigate and learn more about the villagers’ fascinating history. And despite any potential communication difficulties, the good part is that the friendly natives are always eager to take their photos.

How to reach Hongphoi village

To reach Hongphoi village, located in the heart of Nagaland, you’ll need to travel roughly 10-12 kilometers from the nearest big town of Mon. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours, so be sure to plan accordingly. To make your journey more convenient, it’s recommended to bring your own car, as shared cars are rarely available. With your own mode of transportation, you’ll be able to explore this enchanting region at your own pace.

Attractions in Hongphoi village

As soon as you arrive at the village, be sure to make a beeline for the Angh’s house to meet the king and his disciple. This is an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and get a firsthand glimpse into the traditional way of life. Take the chance to snap some photos of the king and queen and other villagers. Just be sure to ask for permission and offer them some compensation. The king’s house is simple yet charming, adorned with buffalo horns and serving up delicious traditional tea.

Once you’ve had your fill at the Angh’s house, set out on a walking tour of the village to meet the friendly locals and take in the stunning surroundings. 

Don’t forget to stop by the village Morung, a fascinating dormitory where young boys and girls learn the customs and traditions of their tribe. From headhunters to kids playing in the streets, you’ll find plenty to see and do in this vibrant corner of Nagaland.

Check A Traveler’s Guide to Longwa Village

Where to stay in Hongphoi 

The small village of Hongphoi does not have any stay options available. People generally communicate from Mon Town to see this village.

Why you should visit the headhunter’s village ?

Hongphoi, Longwa, and other villages are home to the last generation of tattooed head hunters, and most of them are more than 80 years old. It is the last chance to witness the tattooed body and faces of headhunters and meet them. From the renowned tattooed headhunters to the warm hospitality of the locals, a visit to this village is an unforgettable experience.

Discover the Fascinating Konyak Naga Headhunters Village of Chui/Chi

After our visit to Hongphoi village, we were eager to explore more of Nagaland’s rich culture and heritage. Our next stop was the nearby Konyak headhunters village of Chui, just a 45-minute drive away.

Upon arriving in Chui, we were immediately struck by the stunning beauty of the village. One of the highlights of our visit was exploring the intricately carved wooden sculptures in the village Morung. These sculptures depicted stories from the past, showcasing the bravery of the Naga people and their connection to the natural world.

Another must-see in Chui is the chef house, adorned with a striking buffalo head. We also appreciated the well-maintained playground, perfect for kids to run around and play. And for those seeking a spiritual experience, Chui also boasts a charming little church. We highly recommend a visit to Chui for anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland and getting a glimpse into the lives of the Konyak headhunters.  Check our Nagaland tour packages to book your tour in the land of headhunters.

Facts to know before visiting Konyak head hunter’s villages

When visiting the headhunters’ villages in Nagaland, it’s important to keep a few things in mind to ensure a respectful and enjoyable experience. 

  1. These headhunters’ villages are located in a very remote location, and they are very basic. 
  2. Respect the local beliefs culture and traditions.
  3. If you wish to take photographs, be sure to ask for permission first, as some locals may not be comfortable being photographed.  
  4. to make the most of your visit, we recommend always travelling with a local guide or interpreter who can help you navigate the language barriers and provide insights into the fascinating history and traditions of these unique communities.

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Longwa Village and the Legacy of the Headhunters of Nagaland

If you’re planning to explore the remote regions of Nagaland, consider booking a guided tour with Nexplore. Our experienced guides will ensure that you have a safe and comfortable journey while fully immersing yourself in the stunning beauty and unique culture of this region.

We hope that this blog post has inspired you to explore the enchanting world of Nagaland and experience the rich culture of its vibrant communities. If you’re interested in visiting Hongphoi Village/Longwa village or other destinations in the region, be sure to check out our Nagaland tour packages to find the perfect travel package for you. If you have specific preferences or requirements, you can also email us at support@nexplore.org to request a custom tour tailored to your needs. We’re always here to help you plan the adventure of a lifetime!

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