Shopping & Handicrafts

Souvenirs to Buy in Nagaland

Nagaland is known for its intricate handicrafts, traditional jewelry, woven textiles, bamboo crafts, and tribal artifacts. Each Naga tribe has its own unique craftsmanship, making it a great destination for authentic souvenirs. Here are some of the best souvenirs to buy in Nagaland:

1. Handwoven Naga Shawls & Textiles

• Naga shawls are vibrant, handcrafted, and deeply symbolic.
• Each tribe has its own design, representing status, history, and identity.
• Common designs include Ao, Angami, Konyak, and Chakhesang tribal patterns.
• Used as traditional wear, home décor, or fashion accessories.

 Where to Buy?
✅ Kohima & Dimapur markets
✅ Tribal weavers in Mokokchung & Mon
✅ Naga Handloom Emporiums

2. Bamboo & Cane Handicrafts

• Nagaland is famous for bamboo and cane crafts, including:
  ✅ Baskets & Storage Containers
  ✅ Bamboo Furniture & Lampshades
  ✅ Decorative Wall Hangings & Trays
• These items are eco-friendly, durable, and stylish.

 Where to Buy?
✅ Bamboo Emporiums in Kohima & Dimapur
✅ Nagaland Bamboo Development Agency (NBDA)

3. Naga Beaded Jewelry & Accessories

• Bright, chunky, and handcrafted bead necklaces, often worn by Naga tribes.
• Symbolizes power, beauty, and tribal identity.
• Comes in various colors, designs, and materials (shells, glass beads, brass, and bones).

 Where to Buy?
✅ Local craft markets in Kohima & Mon
✅ Naga tribal festivals (Hornbill Festival)

4. Wood Carvings & Warrior Artifacts

• Intricately carved wooden statues, spears, and tribal masks.
• Inspired by warrior traditions and headhunting history.
• Can be used for home décor, souvenirs, and collections.

 Where to Buy?
✅ Kisama Heritage Village (during Hornbill Festival)
✅ Mon District (Konyak tribal villages)

5. Handmade Tribal Pottery

• Clay pottery made using ancient techniques, unique to Nagaland’s tribes.
• Often unpolished and earthy, used for cooking, storing grains, and decoration.

 Where to Buy?
✅ Traditional markets in Wokha & Tuensang

6. Naga Spears & Tribal Weapons

• Authentic replicas of ancient Naga spears, knives, and crossbows.
• Used as warrior weapons in the past, now collected as souvenirs.
• Made from iron, bamboo, and carved wood.

 Where to Buy?
✅ Mon & Longwa Village (Konyak tribe)

7. Handmade Naga Baskets

• Beautifully woven cane baskets used for carrying grains, firewood, and fish.
• Available in various sizes and designs.

 Where to Buy?
✅ Dimapur Craft Market
✅ Rural tribal villages

8. Tribal Headgear & Hornbill Hats

• Traditional headgear worn by warriors, decorated with feathers and boar tusks.
• A great collectible or display piece.

 Where to Buy?
✅ Hornbill Festival (Kisama)

9. Indigenous Naga Spices & Organic Produce

• Bhut Jolokia (Ghost Pepper) – One of the hottest chilies in the world!
• Fermented bamboo shoot & axone (fermented soybeans) – Used in Naga cuisine.
• Naga tea & organic honey – Famous for its pure, herbal flavors.

 Where to Buy?
✅ Local markets in Kohima & Dimapur

10. Traditional Naga Musical Instruments

• Log drums, bamboo flutes, and indigenous tribal instruments.
• Handcrafted by local artisans, perfect for musicians and collectors.

 Where to Buy?
✅ Mon & Mokokchung artisan villages