This 700-Year-Old Nagaland Village Has No Locks or Theft — Here’s What to Know Before You Go

5 August 2025

Hunting for an offbeat getaway? Welcome to Khonoma — a village with no shopkeepers, no doors, and zero theft. Here, a 700-year-old tribal code keeps honesty alive.

Named after the wild Khwuno plant, Khonoma is a village deeply rooted in nature and tradition.

In 2005, it was declared India’s first Green Village — but its forests and wildlife were fiercely protected long before that.

Once hunters, the Angami tribe banned all hunting in 1998, after a single hunt wiped out over 300 rare birds.

Visit Khonoma to experience buying vegetables, books, or snacks from unmanned shops—no vendors, no cameras, just an honesty box.

Here for the aesthetics? Think bamboo homes, flower-lined paths, sun-powered living, and backyard farms and kitchen gardens — Khonoma is like a real-life Ghibli village.

Love hikes? Explore forest trails that house over 250 plant species, 45 types of orchids, and 84 wild fruits!

Love history? Step into ancient forts and war memorials that echo the fierce resistance of Angami warriors during British rule.

Into crafts? Learn the art of bamboo weaving from local masters — and take home more than just souvenirs.

From traditional dances to smoky pork and bamboo shoot feasts — Khonoma isn’t just a place, it’s an experience.

How to Reach: By air: Fly to Dimapur → Drive to Kohima (2.5 hrs) → Khonoma (30 mins) Nearest train station: Dimapur By road: Guwahati → Kohima → Khonoma

Where to Stay: Stay in warm, cozy homestays with Angami families. Enjoy mountain views, farm-fresh meals, and stories by the fire.

Best Time to Visit:  March–May: Lush green trails  Oct–Dec: Perfect for trekking  Jan–Feb: Misty, peaceful winters

Add Khonoma to your bucket list. Save this post for your next offbeat escape — where nature heals, and trust still runs deep.