Food & Shopping

Food & Shopping

Kiphire, one of Nagaland’s most remote and culturally rich districts, offers a unique culinary experience and traditional handicrafts that reflect the local Yimkhiung, Sangtam, and Sumi Naga cultures. Whether you're looking for smoked meats, bamboo shoot delicacies, or handwoven shawls, Kiphire has something special to offer.

 Best Naga Dishes to Try in Kiphire

1. Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoot  (Nagaland’s Most Iconic Dish)

✔ Slow-cooked smoked pork, infused with fermented bamboo shoots, giving it a unique smoky and tangy flavor.
✔ A staple dish in Yimkhiung, Sangtam, and Sumi Naga households.
 Where to Try: Local homestays, Kiphire Market food stalls

2. Axone (Fermented Soybean Dish)  (Rich & Earthy Naga Delicacy)

✔ Fermented soybeans, commonly added to pork curry, chutneys, or soups.
✔ Has a strong aroma but is packed with umami flavors.
 Where to Try: Traditional kitchens, small restaurants in Pungro & Kiphire Town

3. Galho (Naga Khichdi)  (Healthy & Comforting Rice Dish)

✔ A simple yet flavorful dish, made with rice, smoked meat, vegetables, and perilla seeds.
✔ Often enjoyed as a comfort food during cold weather.
 Where to Try: Local eateries, Kiphire Town food stalls

4. Bamboo Steamed Fish  (Mild & Aromatic Naga Dish)

✔ Fresh river fish, marinated with local herbs and Raja Mircha (Ghost Pepper), then steamed inside bamboo tubes.
✔ A healthy and aromatic dish that showcases Nagaland’s tribal cooking techniques.
 Where to Try: Traditional kitchens, homestays in Kiusam & Thanamir Village

5. Raja Mircha Chutney  (For Spice Lovers!)

✔ Made from Nagaland’s famous King Chili (Raja Mircha), one of the spiciest chilies in the world.
✔ Typically crushed with tomatoes and fermented fish, served as a side dish with rice and smoked pork.
 Where to Try: Street food stalls, Kiphire Market

6. Sticky Rice Cakes  (Traditional Naga Snack)

✔ Made from glutinous rice, steamed and wrapped in banana leaves.
✔ A common breakfast or festival snack in Yimkhiung and Sangtam Naga homes.
 Where to Try: Local markets, festival stalls

7. Zutho (Traditional Naga Rice Beer)  (Local Brew Experience)

✔ A mildly alcoholic fermented rice beer, commonly served in bamboo mugs.
✔ A must-try during Naga festivals and cultural gatherings.
 Where to Try: Local homes, traditional village celebrations

 Best Places to Eat in Kiphire

1. Kiphire Local Market Food Stalls