Monday, September 16, 2024 Khonoma tourism offers a unique and inspiring eco-tourism experience that every traveler should explore at least once. Nestled in Nagaland’s Kohima district , Khonoma stands as India’s First Green Village , recognized for its commitment to conservation and sustainable living. This remarkable village has transformed its relationship with nature by embracing a strict ban on hunting since 1998, a practice that was once central to their way of life.
Instead, the community now thrives on agriculture, raising livestock, and gathering resources from the forest, showing how livelihoods and environmental protection can coexist. My journey to Khonoma wasn’t easy, coinciding with Cyclone Mora , but the village’s story of conservation and resilience was worth every challenge. In 2022, Khonoma gained global recognition when it was selected for the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s (UNWTO) Tourism Village Upgrade Program , the first village in India and Southeast Asia to receive this honor.
This recognition highlights Khonoma’s efforts to preserve its natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. At the heart of Khonoma’s strong community values is the Naga tradition of the Peer Group , which has been passed down through generations. The morung , a tribal institution, serves as a learning space where young men are taught about their culture, further strengthening the village’s sense of unity.
Today, Khonoma offers travelers more than just b.