Anuj Tikku's Blog

December 1, 2025

The Mountain View Stay

Nagaland has a way of surprising you—again and again. Just when you think you’ve had your share of adventure, a place like the Konyak heritage village near Mon rises before you like a doorway into another era. My visit to this village was one of the most immersive cultural experiences I’ve ever had in the North East.

The best part was that I found a fabulous guest house in Mon village. It is called The Mountain View Stay, and it is run by a lovely young Naga lady named Ani—a very fair and vivacious woman. She has been hosting me at this serene guest house located on top of Mon village. I get a complete view of the mountains and the village from my balcony at this beautiful homestay. It sits at a height, but it has been a cosy nest for me for the past few days.

“You are my first customer, you know. I just opened this guest house. Don’t mind the construction work—they are renovating the windows. There might be some noise at night if the workers are still at it. I will be serving you dinner, lunch, and breakfast,” Ani said as she welcomed me to her Mountain View Stay.

A cool mountain breeze brushed against my face, sending a chill down my spine, but I was happy to finally have a place to sleep at night. The room was comfortable, with warm blankets and hot water. There is a mirror on the wall and a table lamp for writing at night.

Ani has been very efficient and kept me well-fed throughout the day. I was even served cakes and cookies for tea. Lunch and dinner included pork, chicken, and fish curry with green peas and papad. The food was perfect—not too spicy. I loved the weather and the cosy, rustic vibes of this place.

“I will serve you beef curry tonight. You will love it—Naga style,” Ani told me.
“Yes, I like beef. I grew up in England, so I’m used to eating beef,” I replied.

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“I hope you don’t mind… what is your age, sir?” Ani asked politely.
“I’m fifty—well, fifty-one actually,” I replied, pleasantly surprised at the personal question.

“No, I saw on the internet that your father was murdered. I am very sorry,” Ani said in a sombre tone.
“Yes, that was a tragedy. A big one. It changed the entire course of my life. But it’s been fourteen years now. I travel now, and I write books,” I shared with her.

“So you like Naga women? Have you ever dated a tribal woman? I’m sure many women would want to be with you for your money,” Ani teased. I smiled and giggled like a schoolgirl.

“Why? What about you—are you single?” I asked playfully.
“No, I am married. My husband stays with me here,” she said, pointing to her house below the homestay.
“You have kids?” I asked.
“No, we just married not long ago,” Ani replied.

“Let me get you coffee, and if you go for a walk in the evening, I will clean up your room,” Ani said sweetly. She has been a wonderful hostess, and I would recommend anyone coming to Mon to stay at The Mountain View Stay.

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Published on December 01, 2025 04:35

Enchanted by The Mon Village

I had originally decided to stay in Mon village for three days, but now I have extended my stay by four more days. The reason is simple—the climate and the fresh hill air are doing wonders for me. Although the roads are uneven and dusty, and it’s a pain in the ass to go for long walks, it is the hospitality and warmth of Ani, along with the quality of food being served to me, that has pulled me to stay back and explore this village a bit longer.

In the morning, I was a bit groggy and slipped from a flight of stairs as I was walking down to see Ani and chat with her tribal husband. I twisted my ankle, and it is still hurting.

“So you’re staying back longer?” Ani asked me as she introduced me to her husband and her father-in-law. Both grinned at me and offered me a small stool to sit on. I finally decided to park myself on a plastic chair and enjoy the sun and the view.

Mon village is slow and leisurely; there were chickens and goats roaming around Ani’s backyard.

“Maybe you need to get a massage. There is a town two hours from here where you can get a massage that will soothe your ankle sprain as well,” Ani said, trying to be friendly.

“So, did you read the thriller novel I gave you last night?” I asked Ani, trying to continue the conversation.

“No, not yet. Are you going to write about my guest house on your website?” Ani asked.

“Yes! It will be published on Monday,” I replied immediately.

Ani’s husband is a local Naga with huge tattoos on his arms, a well-built man in his late thirties. He looked like a hunter. In the afternoon, he sat with a huge Naga rifle, and the two men were trying to clean the nozzle.

“Do you guys use this for hunting? What do you hunt?” I asked them.

“Yes! We shoot on the hill and in the forest nearby. We hunt deer and even birds—ducks and eagles at times,” Ani’s husband told me.

“I also want to hunt! Maybe we can go for a hunting trip together. We can hunt deer and even cook it like Salman Khan,” I said jokingly.

“Yes, maybe on Monday. This is the hunting season,” one of the men replied.

“But is it legal to hunt here in Nagaland? It’s not legal everywhere in India—Salman got into trouble for shooting a blackbuck,” I reminded the Naga hunters.

“No, it is legal here. We can hunt, no problem. Only alcohol and brown sugar are illegal in our land. Hunting is allowed,” Ani’s husband reassured me.

So now it is settled—I will be spending the next few days hunting squirrels, ducks, and deer, along with a fishing expedition with my Naga friends. I needed an activity, and I found it.

So stay tuned for my Naga adventures.

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Published on December 01, 2025 04:31

Exploring the Konyak Heritage Complex, Nagaland

The Konyak tribe were once among the most renowned and iconic tribes of Nagaland. They were fierce warriors, famous for intricate woodcraft and a distinct identity among the Nagas. The photos capture the essence of this space beautifully – the carved pillars, the massive morung structures, and the symbolic motifs that speak of bravery, community and ancestral legacy.

This is not just a tourist stop – it’s an immersion into a culture that has preserved its soul through art, architecture and tradition.

A Gateway to Konyak Identity

The grand entrance of the heritage complex, still under construction in your pictures, rises confidently with carved wooden pillars depicting warriors, animals and significant tribal symbols. It reflects Konyak pride – a heritage distinguished by its former headhunting traditions, tattooed chiefs and elaborate log drum houses.

The signboards of the Government of Nagaland and the district authorities show the official efforts to preserve and present this unique heritage.

Inside the Morung – Where Legends Live

The heart of the heritage centre is the morung – the traditional Konyak communal house where young boys were once trained in warfare, discipline, woodcraft and tribal customs.

As you can see in the pictures, there are massive carved pillars that tell their own stories of animals, warriors and mythical figures – each carved with the meticulous skill the Konyaks are known for. One pillar in your photo shows a dynamic warrior–animal motif, symbolising strength and protection.

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The giant wooden log sculpted into a ceremonial drum is one of the most sacred objects in Konyak culture. Beaten during festivals, war alerts and community gatherings, it once carried the heartbeat of the village. One can see skulls, tigers, spears, shields and traditional tools adorning the beams. These are not decorations – they are historical cues to a once martial way of life.

The Art of Wood Carving – A Signature of the Konyaks

One of the most striking images is of the wooden sculpture of a woman carved into a pillar. The Konyaks are master woodworkers, and such figures often represent ancestors, protectors, fertility symbols and tribal stories passed down through generations.

The raw, unpolished aesthetic is intentionally preserved to reflect authenticity rather than commercial craft.

The Atmosphere – A Timeless Village Within Walls

Walking inside the Konyak Heritage Complex feels like stepping into a living past. Thatched roofs made of bamboo and palm leaves, mud-floored interiors, open communal spaces and hand-built wooden structures retain the earthy, rugged identity of Mon.

The sunlight filtering through the bamboo walls adds an almost spiritual glow to the place, linking past with present.

Tribute, Unity and Legacy

Outside, the stone monument with emblems of the Indian government and Nagaland stands as a symbol of cultural preservation and respect for tribal heritage. The complex is not just meant for display, but as a tribute to the resilience, artistry and pride of the Konyak people.

Why the Konyak Heritage Complex Matters

The complex does more than showcase a tribe – it preserves a history of warrior clans, the transition from headhunting to Christianity, traditional craftsmanship and community values, and stories of chiefs, festivals and tribal governance.

It is both a space for cultural conservation and a learning ground for visitors and the younger generation.

This is a must-visit place for everyone staying in or travelling through Mon district.

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Published on December 01, 2025 02:40

Konyak Baptist Church, Mon – Where Faith Towers Over the Hills of Nagaland

Perched proudly on a sun-kissed plateau of Mon town, the Konyak Baptist Church stands as one of the most striking landmarks in Nagaland’s Konyak region. With its towering red cross, gleaming façade and cathedral-like architecture, the church isn’t just a place of worship – it’s the spiritual heart of the town, a gathering point for culture, community and identity.

My visit to this magnificent church felt like walking into the soul of Mon. The first thing you notice as you approach the Konyak Baptist Church is its sheer scale. The vast white structure rises tall, framed by clean lines of blue-tinted windows and a massive red cross etched onto a marble-patterned front. The church shines brilliantly, almost like a beacon calling out to the mountains around it.

Standing at its base, you feel dwarfed by its grandeur. Even the wide staircase leading up to the entrance adds to the sense of approaching something sacred, something monumental.

A Landmark Rooted in Community

The church, established in 1994 as inscribed at its entrance, is more than a building – it is the emotional centre of Mon town. The Konyaks, once known for their fierce warrior traditions, are today one of the most devout Baptist communities in Nagaland. This church represents not only faith but also transformation, unity and cultural revival.

Every Sunday, hundreds pour in – families dressed in their best, elders in shawls, children with gleaming faces. The sound of hymns echoes across the hills, creating an atmosphere that is both powerful and peaceful.

The Clock Tower – A Wooden Guardian Beside the Church

Just a short walk from the main structure stands an elegant, wood-panelled clock tower. Its clean geometric design, paired with crisp white crosses, contrasts beautifully with the rustic textures of Mon’s surroundings.

The tower feels like a sentinel – watching over the town, counting the hours of daily life, anchoring the church complex with quiet dignity. The bold red cross on its roof mirrors the one on the main church, tying both structures together as symbols of faith.

Life Around the Church – A Living, Breathing Mon Town

What makes visiting the Konyak Baptist Church unforgettable isn’t just the architecture but the vibrant life surrounding it. As I explored further, I saw schoolchildren returning home, their shirts untucked, ties loosened, and the carefree joy of youth lighting up their faces. They walked along dusty village roads, chatting in the afternoon sun – an everyday scene, yet so full of charm.

Local Gatherings at the Meat Market

Not far away, the meat market buzzed with activity – locals examining fresh cuts hanging from wooden beams. It’s a reminder of how closely Mon town’s daily rhythms flow with tradition, agriculture, and community interaction. The church stands at the heart of all this, not separating itself from daily life but rising from it.

A Personal Moment at the Church

Standing in front of the church with the sun blazing above and the hills wrapping the town in green folds, I felt a deep sense of grounding. The quiet parking lot, the subdued hum of locals going to and from church, made the moment both serene and powerful.

This is what the Konyaks are known for – their strength and their spirit, balanced beautifully with warmth and hospitality.

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Published on December 01, 2025 02:38

A Journey to Tizit – A Quiet Escape into the Soul of Nagaland

I had to get a massage and, as advised by Ani, I decided to venture out towards the quiet village of Tizit. Tucked inside the lush borders of Nagaland’s Mon district, it felt less like travel and more like slipping into a forgotten chapter of nature.

Tizit isn’t a place that screams for attention – it whispers, and if you are patient enough, it reveals its poetry in reflections on still water, the crunch of gravel roads, and the warm nods of people going about their day.

The First Glimpse – Still Waters and Tall Trees

The first sight that greeted me was a golden evening settling over a mirror-like waterbody. Tall, slender trees stood like guardians, their shadows melting perfectly into the lake below. The silence was profound – the kind where even your breathing seems loud.

The calmness of this scene set the tone for Tizit: unhurried, undisturbed, unfiltered.

Sunset Over the Village – Where Nature Meets the Modern World

As I moved along, the sun dipped lower, casting long shadows across the village pond. A lone telecommunications tower stood in the corner, a reminder that even the quietest corners of Nagaland are connected to the wider world.

The reflection of the bamboo groves and homes in the water created a dreamy frame, as if time itself had paused to admire the beauty.

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A Quaint Resort by the Water – Red Boats and a Gentle Breeze

A pleasant surprise awaited me on the outskirts of the village – a small, picturesque resort overlooking a peaceful stream. Red boats rested by the bank, adding a charming pop of colour to the earthy greens and browns of rural Nagaland.

The landscaped garden, the stone pathways, and the quiet lap of water against the shore made it a perfect spot to pause, breathe, and absorb Tizit’s tranquillity.

The Dusty Village Road – A Path That Feels Like Stories

As I drove deeper into Tizit, I realised that the road was pretty dusty and most of it was dirt track. The car vibrated like hell as we moved towards our destination. The distance from Mon village can be covered in a little over two hours, but one has to navigate treacherous, dusty and muddy roads to get to the place.

The view as we moved along was breathtaking – village huts, banana trees, chickens and goats loitering around the road, and lazy tribals carrying wood, moving around with their axes and blades held aloft. Mist, stirred up by the evening breeze, clung low to the ground. In the distance, the blue silhouettes of Nagaland’s hills framed the horizon.

This road felt like a symbol – the transition from the known to the undiscovered.

The Heartbeat of Tizit – Tea Gardens and Their People

One of Tizit’s most beautiful elements is its tea gardens, stretching in neat green waves across the land. I walked into a plantation just as the sun cast its final golden glow on the workers.

Women and men carrying cloth sacks plucked fresh leaves with a graceful rhythm – a daily dance that fuels the tea economy of the region. Their smiles were warm, their eyes curious yet welcoming, and their stories simple yet profound.

Tizit – A Place That Stays With You

I got a fabulous ninety–minute massage at the resort for ₹5,800. Most importantly, the sprain in my foot healed quite a bit after the long massage.

Tizit is not your typical tourist destination. It doesn’t entertain you – it embraces you. It offers a gentle reminder of what life feels like when nature and people live in harmony.

From the placid reflections on the ponds to the soft rustle of tea leaves, from the earthy roads to the crimson evenings – my journey to Tizit became a meditation in motion.

If you are searching for a place to slow you down so that you can just breathe, then this is it.

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Published on December 01, 2025 02:34

Life in Mon Village: A Slow, Soulful Rhythm in the Hills of Nagaland

Tucked deep in the rugged hills of Nagaland is Mon village. I have really taken to this place and have even extended my stay for a few days, as I truly wanted to soak in its majesty. My days here move at a very gentle pace. I am not guided by the clock, but by the rhythms of the village – the hiss of a cooking fire, the murmurs of conversations, village women drying clothes on rooftop wires, kids walking down the dusty slopes heading for school.

This is the hum of life, just drifting past me as I stand on the balcony, admiring the view of the entire village. I have a rooftop view and have been able to get some great pictures of the mountains.

In the morning, I gave instructions to my driver to buy twenty bullets worth ₹5,000 for my shooting expedition early next morning. I am really looking forward to that part of my trip.

The best thing about Mountain View Stay, which is run by Ani and her family, is that one gets a clear, panoramic hilltop view of the entire village, the valley, and even beyond. The lady is a great host and very hard working. She is working all day – cooking, serving, cleaning, drying clothes, or just feeding her pet dogs, two fabulous Dalmatians.

I was happy to be here, and I loved the way Ani would pamper me by offering cake, chocolate and chocolate pie to me for dessert. She would be slaving it out all day. I was really well looked after by Ani and co., and would recommend her homestay to every traveller who comes to or passes by Mon village.

Rice, fish curry and dal have been my staple diet here, and I love it. It’s keeping my stomach nice and trouble free. I do go for walks late in the evening, but only for half an hour; the rest of my time is dedicated to writing.

Mon’s rooftops are lively worlds in themselves. They function as laundry grounds, photography studios, sunset-viewing decks, and sometimes just places to breathe in the cool highland air.

From the terrace of my homestay, I watched two young women giggling as they captured pictures of each other. One wore a traditional beaded necklace paired with a red blouse – a burst of tribal pride against a canvas of green hills. The other, with a phone in hand, tried to frame the perfect shot while the mountains rested silently behind them. It was village life in its most natural form – simple moments, pure joy.

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Mon village is always alive with movement – but never in a hurry. I saw an elderly woman and a young boy walking down a sloping road, their pace unhurried, their companionship quiet yet comforting. Women often carry bundles or baskets with an ease born from daily practice, while children chase each other under trees and run small errands for their families.

The roads are dusty and sunlit, lined with small houses and surrounded by vegetation so thick that it feels as though the forest watches over the village. From the rooftop, one can see the entire village spread out like a colourful mosaic. Houses painted in greens, blues and browns dot the slopes, creating an enchanting landscape. Laundry swings in the open air, satellite dishes lean at odd angles, and small paths weave between homes like friendly threads stitching the community together.

Mon has a unique way of balancing simplicity with resilience. The people live in tune with the land – weathering its challenges and celebrating its gifts.

Life Without Pretence

Perhaps the most profound part of Mon village is its authenticity. Life here is not curated – it is simple. Clothes dry in the open breeze. Shoes lie casually by the door. A blanket tossed on a bed tells of last night’s chill. People laugh openly, work steadily, and welcome visitors like old friends.

In Mon, you don’t just observe village life – you become a part of its quiet rhythm.

Till then, enjoy the pictures…

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Published on December 01, 2025 02:14

Lapa Lampong Baptist Church – A Majestic Beacon of Faith in Mon District

Travelling through the rugged, remote landscapes of Mon district in Nagaland, one does not expect to suddenly encounter a structure so stately, so grand, and so serenely arresting as the Lapa Lampong Baptist Church. Yet as I arrived at its large open grounds in the quiet village surroundings, the church stood before me like a gentle giant – dignified, glowing under the soft winter sun, and filled with a sense of timeless devotion.

First Impression – A Monument of Simplicity and Scale

As I walked onto the church grounds, its sheer height and symmetry struck me immediately. Rising in neat, geometric tiers topped with a cross, the church exudes both simplicity and magnificence.

The cream-coloured façade, the arched windows stacked in flawless order, and the long balcony running across its upper level create a visual rhythm – almost like a hymn carved into architecture.

Standing before it, I felt small yet embraced, as if the church held within its walls decades of stories, prayers, songs, and hope.

History and Legacy – ESTD 1981

The bold inscription “ESTD 1981” on the front tells you that this is not just a place of worship, but an institution and a pillar for the community for over four decades. In Nagaland, where Baptist Christianity forms the backbone of spiritual and social life, churches like Lapa Lampong are not just religious structures – they are community halls, cultural centres, meeting grounds, and places where stories pass from elders to the youth of the village.

It is here that legends and myths of the past come to life. I was surprised to be woken up by the sweet sound of gospels and hymns from the Bible, all in praise of Lord Jesus. The church stands as a testament to the continuity of faith among the Konyak Naga people.

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A Moment of Stillness – Standing Before the Church

As I stood in front of the tall doors, the mellow morning light casting long shadows across the ground, I felt a deep silence – the kind that soothes you from the inside. Birds hopped between the palm trees lining the left side of the church. A mild breeze rustled through the compound. Somewhere in the distance, faint laughter drifted from village homes.

It was peaceful in a way only rural Nagaland can be – untouched, unhurried, unfiltered.

Architecture That Reflects Faith and Function

The design is striking without being ornate. It blends traditional village aesthetics and clean, modern lines with large windows that allow natural light to pour in. A central tower rises above, symbolising spiritual upliftment.

More Than a Church – A Cultural Anchor

In Mon district, churches serve as gathering spaces for festivals, memorials, Sunday school, and youth programmes. Lapa Lampong Baptist Church is the heartbeat of the village, where life events are marked, celebrated, and remembered.

Traveller’s Reflections

Visiting the Lapa Lampong Baptist Church was not just a sightseeing stop – it was a pause in my journey, a moment to breathe. A reminder of how faith, architecture, and community intertwine in Nagaland to form something very powerful.

Mon district may be known for its fierce headhunters, but here, in front of this radiant church, I witnessed the other face of the Konyak people – gentle, devout, and deeply rooted in faith.

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Published on December 01, 2025 02:03

November 28, 2025

Journey to Nyahnyu – A Rustic Adventure in Nagaland

Nagaland has always fascinated me with its raw edges, ancient tribal roots and landscapes that feel untouched by time. But nothing prepared me for the quiet charm of Nyahnyu, a small village tucked into the rural heart of Nagaland.

My journey here was not just a ride — it was a step back into simplicity, a reminder of how pure life can be when untouched by the rush of the world. The moment I crossed the wooden check post under the thatched-roof bamboo structure and saw the bright green “Welcome to Nyahnyu” signboard, I knew I had arrived somewhere special.

Into the Land of Bamboo Hills and Friendly Smiles

Nyahnyu is a village built on bamboo — literally and spiritually. Fences, huts, resting sheds, even some bridges carry the natural fragrance of bamboo craftsmanship.

As I walked through the village lanes, I felt transported into a time where architecture was honest and the community lived close to the earth. Behind the fences lay houses with roofs of dry leaves, little gardens, and children running along the dusty paths. The hills surrounding the village stood silently, as if guarding centuries of Naga traditions.

By the River, Where Stillness Tells a Story

The highlight of my visit was the clear river flowing beneath an old steel bridge — a place so serene that it could heal the most restless mind. The water sparkled like green glass, so pure that even the stones beneath shone through.

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Standing by the riverbank, with pebbles crunching under my feet and the cool mountain breeze brushing my face, I felt a rare sense of stillness. I posed for a quick picture there, but truly, the river needed no human presence to look beautiful.

With tall bamboo and dense forest on both sides, the place felt like a secret hideout crafted by nature for tired travellers.

A Glimpse into Village Life

Every turn in Nyahnyu offered something photogenic —
a small car parked beside woven bamboo walls,
hills dotted with simple homes blending into the greenery,
sloping paths where villagers walked with baskets slung over their shoulders.

Life here felt slow, peaceful and incredibly grounding.

The Roads That Lead You Inward

What struck me most was how Nyahnyu’s quietness allowed introspection. Travel often becomes a chase for places, photos and stories. But here, the village made me pause. The river made me listen. The hills made me breathe a little deeper.

Nyahnyu is not a tourist hotspot — and that is its greatest charm. It is a place for travellers, not tourists. A place that gives more than you expect and asks for nothing in return.

Final Thoughts

Nyahnyu may be small, but it has a big spirit. Bamboo fences, river reflections, mountain silhouettes and warm simplicity make it a destination that lingers long after the journey ends.

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Published on November 28, 2025 02:01

The First Glimpse: A Village Frozen in Time

Into the Heart of Pomching:
Anuj Tikku’s Road Adventure Through Rural Nagaland

There are journeys that entertain you, there are journeys that educate you — and then there are journeys like Pomching that stay with you long after you’ve left the dusty roads behind.

Nestled deep within the Mon district of Nagaland, Pomching is not the kind of place you’ll find in glossy travel brochures. There are no polished resorts, no curated experiences. What you find instead is something far rarer — authenticity woven into every bamboo hut, every hill curve, every smiling face.

The journey begins as you enter Pomching, marked by a lone BRO signboard standing beside a small shack-like shop. With its bamboo walls, thatched roof, and shelves stocked with biscuits, water bottles, packaged snacks and daily essentials, the shop feels like you’ve stepped into a simpler decade.

A small cat sleeps lazily beneath the counter. Sunlight filters through the dusty air, and you instantly know you’ve arrived in a world untouched by chaos. The mountains whisper and the roads speak as Pomching welcomes you.

The Soul of Nagaland: Its Traditional Homes

A short drive deeper, you reach traditional round bamboo huts — classic to the villages of Nagaland. The craftsmanship is stunning: woven bamboo walls, a thick grass-thatched roof, wooden beams and tools resting outside like sleeping warriors.

These homes reflect a lifestyle that respects the land. Everything from the roof to the fencing is handmade, sustainable, and designed to withstand the rugged climate of the hills. Standing before one such hut, you can almost hear tales of hunts, festivals, tribal gatherings and the hum of hearth smoke rising at dawn.

Life Around Firewood and Forest Trails

Further ahead, you come across an open courtyard — clothes drying on ropes, a red SUV parked with its back open, and bamboo fences sectioning off little patches of earth. Smoke drifts slowly from somewhere behind the huts. Chickens cluck in the distance. The forest stands tall like a green fortress around it all.

This is Pomching — a blend of wildness and warmth. Everywhere you go, the villagers smile with a gentle curiosity. They do not rush. They do not pretend. Life moves at the pace of the hills.

Moments of Stillness and Laughter

In one frame, you sit on a fallen log outside a bamboo fence, sunlight bathing the scene in gold. Behind you stands a traditional hut, surrounded by wildflowers, pebbled ground and tall bamboo shoots swaying in the wind.

Your face glows with a smile that only travel can create — the kind that says, “I am exactly where I need to be.”

This quiet moment, surrounded by nature, is the essence of Pomching. No Wi-Fi, no noise — just pure earth and sky.

The Iron Bridge to Nowhere

The last stretch of your journey takes you to an iron truss bridge — silent, imposing and stretching across the valley like a steel skeleton. Standing in the middle of it, framed by mountains and open sky, you look like a lone explorer claiming a forgotten frontier.

There is something cinematic about that frame — the geometry of the beams, the endless blue, the emptiness of the road.

It’s the kind of scene that makes a person reflect on life, on travel, on the strange roads that bring us to unexpected destinations.

Pomching is not a checklist location. It’s not a tourist hub. It’s not for travellers who seek comfort.

It is for wanderers and it is for seekers.
It is for those who travel to feel the pulse of a place, to understand its people, and to return with stories richer than souvenirs.

Enjoy the beauty — and the pictures — of this wondrous place.

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Published on November 28, 2025 01:58

November 27, 2025

Guns, Hills & Tribal Warmth

Anuj Tikku’s Shooting Escapades in Nagaland

Nagaland has a way of surprising you long before you even realise it. The moment you enter the state, the landscape shifts – towering green hills, crisp mountain air and rugged earth roads that snake through forests untouched by time.

But for Anuj Tikku, this journey into the wild wasn’t just about sightseeing. It became a full-blown adventure – complete with local tribesmen, handcrafted guns and the kind of camaraderie you won’t find anywhere else.

A Walk into Warrior Country

On a bright, unbelievably blue-sky morning, Tikku found himself standing on a rocky, uneven mountain path in rural Nagaland. The sun was gentle, the breeze was cool, and the hills loomed like ancient guardians around him.

Then came the moment that would define the day. A traditional Naga muzzle-loader rifle was handed to him. Tikku’s eyes gleamed with that familiar mix of thrill and curiosity.

The Tribal Marksmen

He wasn’t alone. A local tribesman – lean and sharp-eyed, dressed in a simple grey tee – stood beside him, casually holding his own muzzle-loader as if it were an extension of his arm. Another young villager watched on, amused but quietly proud to demonstrate their traditional craft.

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The locals demonstrated how the rifle is loaded – slowly, carefully, with a metal rod and precise old-school mechanics. Tikku watched with childlike fascination. This wasn’t just shooting; it was an art form.

https://anujtikku.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/WhatsApp-Video-2025-11-27-at-10.59.05-AM.mp4Bang! Echoes Through the Hills

With guidance from the locals, Tikku lifted the rifle, braced himself and fired.

The sound exploded through the valley, echoing off the hills in a booming thud and startling a few birds into flight. The villagers broke into gentle smiles. Tikku grinned wider than all of them.

In that moment, it felt like an initiation into the rugged land of Nagaland.

The Roadside Warriors

But the adventure didn’t end there. Further down the road, on a narrow strip of asphalt carved between steep hills, Tikku met an elderly lady and an older man carrying firewood.

They posed with him as he held a tribal blade, while the locals stood by, smiling shyly and naturally – as if this too were just another part of everyday life in the hills.

It was a moment that blended the strange and the familiar, tradition and spontaneity, all wrapped in the warmth of Naga hospitality.

Guns Without Violence

It’s important to understand: Naga muzzle-loaders are part of cultural heritage, often used for hunting and kept as family heirlooms. Tikku’s entire experience was about learning this ancient skill from the people who have preserved it for generations.

There was no aggression, no glamourisation of violence – just curiosity, respect and a deep sense of connection.

A Day to Remember

When Tikku walked back along that dusty mountain road, rifle smoke still lingering faintly in the air, he knew this wasn’t an experience he would ever forget.

Nagaland had shown him the raw beauty of its landscape and the strength and humility of its people. In a world obsessed with packaged tourism, this was the kind of adventure that changes you – real, rugged and deeply human.

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Published on November 27, 2025 01:39

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