Self Drive in Nagaland

Hire 4×4 self drive vehicles to explore Nagaland.

Imagine driving through remote tracks and trails, ascending and descending on non-descript ridges, crossing streams and rivers, facing upto challenging terrain and raw nature, passing through forgotten hamlets and quaint villages across the state of Nagaland in a 4×4 self-drive vehicle. Imagine heading out on a self-reliant, self-curated expedition in harmony with nature, camping under clear night skies, cooking a quiet meal and soaking up the pristine natural beauty. Imagine spending the night in a remote village at the village chief’s home, embracing the warmth of the fire, relishing local food and learning about tribal life in the most authentic manner. That’s what self-drive Nagaland can make happen for you!

Why use a 4×4 Self-Drive Nagaland rental

  • Roads are rough and the terrain is challenging. If you wish to explore beyond the known hubs of Kohima and Dimapur, then you are best advised to use a capable 4×4. If not, you should be prepared for extreme wear and tear.
  • Even one shower of rain, the roads become even more challenging. 4x4s make your travel on slippery roads safer.
  • Taxis, public transport are few and far in between. Cost of hiring a taxi is high in the interiors and public transport runs only on arterial roads. You will be most mobile in your own self-drive vehicle.
  • Flexibility to plan your own itinerary is best in a self-drive rental. You can choose your domain of interest (offroading, culture, sights, vocation, experiences etc.) and plan a trip accordingly.
  • Some roads are tough, even villagers find mobility on these sections a challenge. However, your 4×4 is all geared to take on such roads.
  • We also equip you with camping gear if you choose camping as your mode of stay.
  • Self-drive Nagaland vehicles are best outfitted to suit tracks and trails in Nagaland – many vehicle modifications have been carried out like under chassis protection, offroad bumpers, snorkel and spare wheel fitment, spare fuel can, tyres to suit terrain etc.
  • We also equip you with camping gear if you choose camping as your mode of stay.
  • If you wish to attempt difficult and extreme routes, we can rent out advanced recovery equipment to make your travel safe despite being adventurous.
  • Pre-trip planning support – given our liaison, network, rooting in the community and extensive knowledge of the area (since we’ve mapped out each of the trails), Self-drive Nagaland can also guide you to plan and execute your travel smoothly.

On Field Support and Recovery

  • On field mechanical support and recovery – Self-drive Nagaland will assist you during your travel if there is any breakdown in the field.

  • Self-drive Nagaland vehicles are best outfitted to suit tracks and trails in Nagaland – many vehicle modifications have been carried out like under chassis protection, offroad bumpers, snorkel and spare wheel fitment, spare fuel can, tyres to suit terrain etc.

  • We also equip you with camping gear if you choose camping as your mode of stay.
  • If you wish to attempt difficult and extreme routes, we can rent out advanced recovery equipment (subject to availability) to make your travel safe despite being adventurous.

Plan according to route difficulty

Easy

Phek: Shilloi Extn

The jaunt from Shilloi Lake via Phokungri to Avakhung makes a perfect day outing and a 24 km run one way. The route is bumpy in patches along a rocky road going past cliffs but is manageable for beginners. At Avakhung fork, the right climbs up to the Assam Rifles post, helipad and the ITC (International Trade Centre), while the left descends to the border checkpost and village.

Peren: Peren Extn

From the district headquarters Peren, drive via Mpai Junction to Puilwa (not be confused with Poilwa near Heunambe). Located on the Manipur border, Rani cave at Puilwa was one of the hiding places of freedom fighter Rani Gaidinliu and AZ Phizo. Backtrack the way you came to Peren or continue on the road to Manipur and drive via Tamphung and Ndunglwa back to Peren.

Phek: Kheza Loop

An exploration of the left half of the district, this offroad route takes you through Chakhesang territory, specifically the Kheza or Kuzhale area to the south. Starting from Kohima, drive via Kidima on this linear route running south of the Kikruma-Chizami highway. Drive via the historic villages of Khezakeno, Zapami and Kami, base for an extreme 4km offroad short cut to Kapamodzu (See Route 2). Most people take the usual longer route via Pfutsero, Tsupfume, Razieba (Razeba) to Zhavame, the base for Kapamodzu. Backtrack to Zhavame, Zalome and Razeba and drive past Nagaland’s Stonehenge Tsupfume towards Tetsume and rejoin NH-29 or the Kohima-Jessami Highway at Chizami. From Chizami, drive past the historic Sumi village and take a scenic back route to Losami Junction, cross Lanye or Lanezho Bridge, passing through a small section of Manipur to Jessami. Head to Meluri and take the deviation near the petrol bunk towards Tezatse and drive to district headquarters Phek, continuing via Khomi, Sakraba and Porba back to Pfutsero to complete the loop.

Kiphire: Mimi Extn

The exciting trail to Wawade waterfall takes roughly 1½ hours from Mimi via Betang, a scenic viewpoint. It’s a tar road to Betang, which becomes a mud road after a few kilometers, as you make a descent past Khaha village. The settlement of Khongka can be spotted nestled on a hill with the end of the trail at Hakkomute barely discernible at a lofty elevation in the distance. Park your vehicle by the bridge for the 20-minute hike to the waterfall (it’s safer to pick up a local guide from Betang). After the bridge, there’s a wooden barrier on the road before the ascent to Khongka with several culverts. Continue to Hakkomute and backtrack all the way to Mimi. Directions: Mimi to Hakkomute is 42 km. From Mimi take the road past the 41 Assam Rifles checkpost to Betang, 3 km away. Continue the descent past Khaha village to the bridge 11 km away for Wawade waterfall. Climb 8 km to Khongka, and drive 21 km further to Hakkomute.

Kohima: World War II Trail

Starting and ending in Kohima, this loop is perfect for beginners. Hardly an offroad trail, but with enough inclines, patches of rough road and traffic snarls around Kohima, the route will test your skills as a driver, offering beautiful landscapes en route and historic places associated with World War II and Netaji Subash Chandra Bose’s Indian National Army. Drive north on NH-2 towards Wokha and turn right from Botsa to the heritage village of Tuophema. There’s a 15 km offroad shortcut from Tuophema to Lazami in Zunheboto district. Sticking to Kohima district, continue to Gariphema, the last Angami village in this pocket, with a mixed population of Semas. Head south via Kijoumetouma and cross the Dzüü river to Chakabama. Drive from Kezo via Mima to Kigwema and back to Kohima.

Kohima: Western Angami Trail

The drive from Kohima to Peren through the Western Angami region is a historic route. In 1885, a bridle path was built from Kohima via Khonoma, Dzuleke, Peletkie, Benreu and Pedi to the remote outpost of Tening in present-day Peren district. This was one of the earliest roads built in the region. The highway is currently being widened, so watch out for dumpers and road construction equipment.

Tuensang: Chingmei-Taknyu Extn

Take the NH-202 highway from Tuensang via Kuthur to Chendang Saddle and take the left deviation for Chingmei from the signboard. This is the main access to Noklak from Tuensang. From Chingmei, drive to Taknyu, the end of the trail in this corner, backtrack to Chingmei to return to Tuensang or continue to Noklak.

Mon: Hongphoi-Wangla Extn

This standalone extension from Mon to Wangla via Hongphoi – the village of headhunters, is a good day trip, perfect for beginners. From Mon, drive towards Wangla via Namtong and take a sharp left turn, with two provision shops and a high school on the road going up. It’s a paved road to Wangla and there’s clayey soil in patches. Bear in mind that one rain could change the track’s character. The drive is through thickets of bamboo and a sub tropical forest, with thick vegetation and very less cultivation. After Hongphoi, the shola forest patch begins and the trail ends at Wangla, where one can stay overnight or return to Mon the same day, if you reach early and have sufficient time to head back.

Mon: Wakching-Wanching Extn

This route explores the region west of the NH-702 highway. Take the diversion for Leangnyu. After 6-7 km from the highway, between Leangnyu and Longkei, there’s a fork in the road. The left route is sometimes blocked by landslides; in which case backtrack to the junction and take the right to Pongkong. From Pongkong, continue via Tanhai to Wakching. This entire route to Wakching is being made into a highway. In bad weather, watch out for landslides due to the fresh road cutting. It’s a moderate offroad to the picturesque village of Chingphoi. About 1½ km from Chingphoi on the way to Nian in Longleng district there’s Yangmon or Yangnyu River which can’t be crossed and there are huge trees fallen across the path, so one must backtrack from Chingphoi to Wanching and back to Wakching. Drive to Tamlu in Longleng district.

Tsemeniyu: Tseminyu-Botsa Loop

This deviation o NH-2 from Old Tseminyu goes via Phentejon Model Village to the historic village of Phenshunyu and Khenyu before meandering along to Rumensinyu. Drive south to New Sendenyu and Thongsunyu. From here, one can drive via Khonibinzun to Terogunyu on NH-2 or drive to Botsa to rejoin the highway a little south of Terogunyu. Directions: From Old Tseminyu, drive 5.2 km to Phentejon Model Village and drive 5 km to Khenyu via Phenshenyu. Head 18 km to Rumensinyu, 6.7 km to New Sendenyu, 5.8 km to Thongsunyu and 8.4 km to Botsa.

Wokha: Doyang Drive

Driving in from Kohima, enter Wokha district from the south via Tseminyu and K Station. It’s a regular highway to district headquarters, Wokha. Continue north of town to Zero Point junction and take the diversion to the left towards Doyang. After 1 km, near Wokha Baptist Church Gate at Vankhosung, take the diversion to the left for Humtsoe. Drive 3 km on this bumpy road to get a glimpse of Sosurochu waterfall in the far distance on the left, just below Wokha town. It may not merit a great waterfall view but it is good oroad to Humtsoe. Backtrack to the highway and drive on a smooth winding tarmac towards Doyang. Take the deviation to the right through Yikhum village gate towards Englan and Riphyim, which has a tourist lodge. The road continues to Changsu New, the end of the trail from where one can see the Doyang river below. Backtrack to Englan and drive to Thillong, a cluster of teashops near Lotha Bridge. Turn in before the bridge to Doyang South Wing to the viewpoint, reception and multi-purpose hall. From Doyang, take the North Wing route via Asha, Pangti and Okotso to exit Wokha and drive to Longkhum in Mokokchung district. Or, backtrack the way you came to Zero Point and take the highway via New Wokha to Doyang Bridge. The widening of the 2-lane NH-61 highway has been done from Tsungiki to Izheto, 24 km away on the Mokokchung route. At Doyang Bridge, take the deviation for Philimi and Roto in Zunheboto district.

Shamator: Tsotokur-Shamator

Enter Shamator district from the north via Helipong on NH-202 or the Tuensang-Longkhim highway. Drive to Sotokur and Mundun Heritage Village. Currently Mundun has just one hut in the heritage area that has been demarcated for development. Continue via Thiyang and Y Aunur till you reach a fork. The straight road goes to Langa village, but you take a right. Watch out for the narrow diversion to Kesangwong as it is at a blind turn; take the road going up at the turn to Kesangwong. It’s a rough unpaved road to Sangphur where you turn right on the NH-202 highway to Shamator. Directions: From Helipong drive 16.8 km to Sotokur. Continue via Mundun Heritage Village, Thiyang and Kesangwong to Sangphur 49.2 km away and drive 16.3 km to Shamator.

Zunheboto: VK Loop

This offroad loop from VK is a good option if you don’t want to take the regular highway to Wokha. Descend on a rocky road to a river for an exciting stream crossing and ascend to Lotisami New/Old, driving towards Naghuto. The narrow mountain path passes a few culverts and small waterfalls to the left and a valley on the right, as it climbs high up to Litsami/Imlomi. At Litsami Junction, the straight road passes through a gate to Litsami village; the left goes to Imlomi and onward to Zunheboto, while the diagonal mud path to the right, descends to Sukomi 5-6 km away. Often, the road after Sukomi is damaged and one cannot connect to Ghukiye on Route 2. Backtrack from Litsami Junction and drive via Akuhaito, Rotomi and Philimi, exiting near Doyang Bridge to Wokha. Just 4 km short of town, Hammock Resort at New Wokha is a great overnight stop on the highway.

Longleng: Tamlu-Longleng

Enter Longleng district from Wakching in neighbouring Mon district and take the highway to Tamlu, a 3-hour drive on a patchy surface that is unpaved in sections. Tamlu to Kangching is a black top but as you descend to the Dikhu river and ascend to Amosen via Tangha, which has a small lake, the path is riddled with nallas caused by rain channels. The furrows run about 2 feet deep so watch out for proper wheel placement. The road gets better as you drive from Amosen via Yotan S Compound and Yongshei to Yongnyah that takes over an hour. It’s a very beautiful drive up. This is a good hard patch of road so you reach Nian in under an hour and it takes 1½ hours to Longleng via Yongam and Bhumnyu, which has caves dating back to the era of Ahom Rajas.

Longleng: Longleng-Sakshi

The drive south of Longleng towards Tuensang takes you to one of the prettiest and most picturesque villages in the district – Sakshi. There’s road construction on this route so watch out for heavy vehicles and landslides in the rains. Drive via Pongo which has the charming Shamnyu Lake, and Yongphang, known for its traditional pottery. Witness how local artisans crafted clay pots from a lump of clay. From Sakshi, drive via Auching to exit Longleng district and join the highway near Tobu in Mon district or connect to Sangchen Compound to embark on the Tuensang oroad trail. Alternately, you could backtrack from Sakshi to Longleng and take the highway to Changtongya via Orangkong, Alayung and Sanglu.

Niuland: Angling Circuit

Start from Dimapur and drive on a mud track from Aoyimti to Eralbill; beel means ‘water or lake’ since the area was earlier a marshy land. Cross the Diphupani river and enter Nihoto village, named after the founder. From Nihoto, continue towards Kehuku village which has a short section of tar. Take a left towards Hoito, cross the Dimapur bypass road, continue straight and take the left fork, passing a brick kiln and factory on the right. The mud track meanders through patches of bamboo with a pond on the right. Continue via Suhoi to Kuhuboto and drive via Kughato, Ghokito, Pukhato to Hevikhe. As you drive via the settlements of S Vihuto, P Vizheto and K Hetoi, you reach the Rengma or Zubza river and cross over to Zuheshe which has a lake. Drive via Viyito to reach the district headquarters, Niuland.

Moderate

Zunheboto: Zunheboto-Ghosu-K Station

Zunheboto to K Station is a lateral traverse across the district starting from Zunheboto driving via Ghukiye to Langki Bridge and Ghosu Bird Sanctuary. Don’t expect too much infrastructure, it’s a DIY place without any signages. Drive past Shena and Saptiqa and stop at the resting shed if you’re low on water supply. There are no shops or facilities on this route and STBC Women Department sometimes keeps a thoughtful self-service crate of mineral water – you can leave money behind in a plastic box. Drive past Ustomi village gate, Zhevishe village marketing shed and Late Hoikhe Hesso memorial and continue on the road to Wokha/Kohima. The road passes through Tsaphimi Reserve Forest, rubber plantations with sheets of latex drying in the sun, and scenic bridges. Just short of the exit point at K Station in Tseminyu, stop by at the roadside memorial of Dhanchu, the brave warrior of Kandi village who fought a tiger.

Phek: Kheza Loop

An exploration of the left half of the district, this offroad route takes you through Chakhesang territory, specifically the Kheza or Kuzhale area to the south. Starting from Kohima, drive via Kidima on this linear route running south of the Kikruma-Chizami highway. Drive via the historic villages of Khezakeno, Zapami and Kami, base for an extreme 4km offroad short cut to Kapamodzu (See Route 2). Most people take the usual longer route via Pfutsero, Tsupfume, Razieba (Razeba) to Zhavame, the base for Kapamodzu. Backtrack to Zhavame, Zalome and Razeba and drive past Nagaland’s Stonehenge Tsupfume towards Tetsume and rejoin NH-29 or the Kohima-Jessami Highway at Chizami. From Chizami, drive past the historic Sumi village and take a scenic back route to Losami Junction, cross Lanye or Lanezho Bridge, passing through a small section of Manipur to Jessami. Head to Meluri and take the deviation near the petrol bunk towards Tezatse and drive to district headquarters Phek, continuing via Khomi, Sakraba and Porba back to Pfutsero to complete the loop.

Phek: Pochury Loop

The Pochury territory is divided into five ranges or areas – Kamalaya, Meluri, Apoksah (Akhegwo), Phojesa and Phokungri. While driving in from Jessami, just before Akash Bridge over the Tizu river, you turn right and begin the ascent of the first range Kamalaya. It is a loose acronym for the six villages in the western part – Kanjang, Akhen, Matikhru, Akhen, Mollen and Reguri. Crossing Matikhru and Kanjang, you reach Akhen, the base for an offroad extension to Molhe Pass near Border Pillar 130 (See Route 4). From Reguri, make a scenic descent through a pine forest to the fields by the river and drive via Ziphu to Mollen. The drive takes you through forested tracts till you reach a fork in the road – the left leads to Phor and the right to Lake Shilloi. You have to cross a small river called Laiyakti, literally ‘one whose water never gets less’. Drive past Washelo and Thewati to reach Lake Shilloi. From Shilloi, you can do an extension via Pokhungri to the border town of Avangkhu (Route 5). Continue from Shilloi Lake via Laruri to Akhegwo and Meluri.

Kiphire: Pungro Loop

Enter the district at Ngoromi and Longmatra. The confluence of the Tizu and Zungki rivers lies near Longmatra. Take the diversion to the right, off the highway for Pungro and Thanamir for the Pungro Loop. This access is called 02 Rasta named after the GREF company stationed here. It’s a deeply rutted route and a bone-jangling ride on the narrow mud track paved unevenly with stones. From Pungro, drive via scenic villages of Amikioro, Mutingkhong, Moya and Mimi. From Mimi, one can do the Wawade-Hakkomute extension (Route 2), a diversion via Betang to a short, yet tricky hike to Wawade waterfall and continue to the end of the trail past Khongkha to Hakkomute. Drive from Mimi through the remote highlands via Lopfukhong, Khongjiri to Longkhimong and take a diversion to Khong, the end of the road in this nook. There’s a walking trail down to the Vohrtah (pronounced Wu-she-ta) river and Thanamir. The extreme offroad trail (Route 3) from Khong becomes too steep to navigate beyond 1 km. Backtrack to Longkhimong and continue to Salumi, taking a diversion for ‘Apple Village’ Thanamir. Return to Salumi and from Penkim Junction, head to Fakim Wildlife sanctuary, returning to Pungro to complete the loop.

Kiphire: Mimi Extn

The exciting trail to Wawade waterfall takes roughly 1½ hours from Mimi via Betang, a scenic viewpoint. It’s a tar road to Betang, which becomes a mud road after a few kilometers, as you make a descent past Khaha village. The settlement of Khongka can be spotted nestled on a hill with the end of the trail at Hakkomute barely discernible at a lofty elevation in the distance. Park your vehicle by the bridge for the 20-minute hike to the waterfall (it’s safer to pick up a local guide from Betang). After the bridge, there’s a wooden barrier on the road before the ascent to Khongka with several culverts. Continue to Hakkomute and backtrack all the way to Mimi.

Kiphire: Kiusum Extn

The Kiusum extension, especially the route to the last village Thongsonyu, is a challenging drive for any offroader. The trail starts off easy as you drive north of Kiphire on the highway to Tsar Farm and take a right turn for Phelungre. The trail is moderate as you cross a steel bridge and drive to Latsu, continuing past Sangkhumti to Kiusum. It’s a 2-hr drive from Kiusum via Reicham and Limtsang to Pokhpur. Continue driving another hour via Tikhingkhiu to reach Thongsonyu, the end of the trail. This is the most treacherous offroading stretch and one has no choice but backtrack the same way to Kiusum.

At Kiusum, one has three options – 1) Return the way you came westwards to Phelungre and Tsar Farm back to Kiphire. 2) Drive south via Longtsunger towards Pungro, Penkim or Thanamir. 3) Head north and exit Kiphire district to reach Pang, 14.7 km (4-5 hours) in Noklak district (See Page __) via Chikiponger and Vitsuvong. The route takes you past cornfields and a rocky river crossing. The river is 20-30 ft wide and the water level is almost mid tyre height (Be aware, water levels increase considerably in the rains). Drive through a narrow gorge before tackling the difficult ascent to Pang in Noklak district regarded as the home of the Khiamnungan tribe.

Peren: Peren Loop

Mhainamtsi is the gateway to Peren district and this radial loop is the main arterial route with off-road extensions from nodal points like Ahthibung, Ngam, Tening and Peren. Jalukie to Ahthibung is supposed to be a black top made years ago but the surface disintegrates as you drive further away from town.

From Dimapur, turn right at Chumukedima and drive via Vidima, Shitovi Junction to Mhaikam – there are a few homestays in the area. Pimla has a few tea shops and vegetable vendors. Cross Mhainamtsi and turn right at the T-junction towards Jalukie. The DC’s office is at New Peren HQ Complex near Kejanglwa village, 51 km from Dimapur, with an offroad short cut to Ahthibung. Drive 3km to the Baptist Church in New Peren, turn right to Old Chalkot 7km away and turn left on the main road to Ahthibung, 3km away. One can do an off road route from Ahthibung to Lower Sinjol via Old Beisumpui, Songsang and Beisumpui Zangdi

Peren: Tening - Canamaran Extn

From Tening, it’s a dusty drive on a kachcha (mud) road to New Nzau, a village named after its founder. The view of Kchalwang mountain forms the backdrop. It has a small store where you can pick up supplies. Further ahead at Ntu/Ntuma, there’s Sangsang’s Tea Stall, the only refreshment option en route. Passing through bamboo thickets, the trail descends via the last settlement Canamaram to the scenic Meguiki river with a Bailey bridge. This is Nagaland’s southernmost point. The confluence of the Meguiki and Barak river is located across the bridge beyond the Nagaland-Manipur border at Kedang.

Kiphire: West of the Highway

Turn off the highway after Longmatra village for Honito along a decent patch. From here it is a challenging drive to Nitoi, along a hilly stretch with frequent furrows and ditches. Though the route is moderate, it could get rather tricky in the rains. From Nitoi, continue to Sitimi a kilometer ahead, from where it is a smooth black top to Shishimi, except for a few places where bridges are being constructed. From Shishimi backtrack to Sitimi that has a GREF Camp. Instead of taking the good highway from Sitimi to Seyochung, drive on a black top via Kiyezhe and Natsami to Langzanger. From Langzanger the road deteriorates considerably and becomes difficult after the right deviation for Tsunger. Driving further, the level changes to extreme as you pass through dense forest with an obstacle course of marshy path, water and grass onward to Seyochung. Seyochung to Lukhami is a black top and a well used path. From Lukhami to Kisetong the route is good, as you continue to Changchor.

Tuensang: Noksen-Longtrok Loop

Drive north of Tuensang town via Tuensang village on the NH-702 B highway towards Hakchang and take the left diversion towards Sangchen Compound. Cross the Etijung or Yijung river and drive to Sangchen Compound. It’s a normal road and the highway to Noksen is being built so one needn’t engage 4×4 in this stretch. From Sangchen Compound, drive to the nearby village of Momching and continue to Bhumpak. Follow the district’s northern boundary and cross the Phomchi river en route to Yangpi. Continue to Noksen, Litem, Alisopur and Tronger, turning right on the highway for Chare. After covering Longtrok/Chungliyimti, there are multiple options from Chare. Take the highway via Longkhim to Tuensang. Or drive to Mokokchung via a 19 km short-cut, an oroad route on a narrow path. Or take the NH-202 highway via Meyilong to exit Tuensang district as you reach Moalenden in Mokokchung district; cro

Mon: Sheanghahmokok Extn

An offshoot of the earlier route, this extension from Sheangamokok to Tangnyu is pure offroad country. The route to Sheanghahwamsa requires 4×4 as it is a mud path with slushy sections and slippery red soil. One rain and the moderate route could transform into an extreme section in no time. From Sheanghahwamsa, one road heads northeast via Nyahnyu to Longwa. But drive northward to Longshen, before joining Tangnyu on the Mon-Longwa axis.

Wokha: Okotso-Pyotchu Traverse

This lateral traverse across Wokha from Okotso in the east to Pyotchu/Ralan in the southwest is an exciting oroad route. Enter Wokha district from the east via Longkhum in Mokokchung district, driving in via Okotso to Pangti, the village where thousands of Amur falcons roost annually in Oct-Nov. The forest has teak, bamboo and banana and the mud road is pretty bad. Continue via Asha to Doyang Hydro Project North Bank and drive to Sanis on the highway. The route to Pyotchu is along a ridge that follows the course of the Diyung or Tapu river to the left with the plains of Assam to the right. This is a coal-mining area, and after Tsopo, all the descents to the right from Chudi, Longtsung and Lotsu, lead to coal mines. The road is patchy, alternating between tarred and rough, and gets slushy in the rains. Buses ply only till Longtsung. After Pyotchu, the Diyung river takes an upward curve and one has to cross the river to reach Ralan.

Shamator: Shiponger-Tsotokur

This offroad route takes you to the remote villages of the western parts of the district. Start from Shamator and drive via Leangkonger, Shiponger and Kephore to Huker on the Zunheboto border. Drive north to the large town of Chessore and continue via Lunthu to K Longsor. After Chessore and Lunthu, the road is not used much as vehicles hardly, hence the 4×4 track is rather awful. Continue on the mud path to Kelongru and drive via Moyit up towards the high altitude village of Longtoker. Backtrack to Moyit and continue towards Sotokur to exit the district from the north via Helipong to Tuensang.

Zunheboto: Satoi Range to Longsa

Drive from Akhegwo towards Kiphire and take the diversion to the left from the highway on the tar road crossing a Bailey bridge across the Aphughoki river, towards Khuvuxu (pronounced Khuvukhu). Satoi Range has 11 settlements under its jurisdiction – Khuvuxu, Hokiye, Thakiye, Tsutoho, Satoi village, Satoi town, Itovi, Ikiye, Tsuruhu (good for sighting tragopan), Kheshito and Ghokhuvi. You cross a blue pillar gate with the words Vi Wolo (Safe Journey)/Sasuvi (Welcome) before entering Thakiye. The sharp climb from Kizari in the foothills to Hokiye is the most challenging section in this circuit as the road is very narrow with deep ruts caused by rain channels criss-crossing the track. Wheel placement becomes crucial and in some tight spots, the navigator must get down from the vehicle to guide the driver. Hokiye lies at the crest of the mountain

Noklak: Anatongre-Noklak

Enter Noklak district from Kiphire driving up the highway to Anatongre. Take the diversion to the right for Thonoknyu and descend to the Zungki river before making the slow ascent to sub division headquarters Thononkyu. The road traverses the area between the Zungki and Chokla rivers. The path is difficult and narrow in sections with steep drops on one side, so correct wheel placement is critical. Drive via Chilliso and Peshu to Sanglao and up to Nokhu. From Nokhu descend to the Makao river and climb up to district headquarters Noklak.

Noklak: Pang - Choklangan Loop

Enter from Kiusum in Kiphire district and come into Noklak district through Pang in the south. From Pang, cross the Chokla river, and climb up to Thonoknyu, the nearest nodal town to refuel if low on gas or provisions. Else, continue on a good road via Thoktsur to Chipur. After Chipur, the route deteriorates, making it a dicult road to Kingjung, a fairly large town. Kingjung to Wui is the toughest and worst section, with a slippery narrow path passing through hilly terrain. There are ditches caused by rain channels and the red mud is very slippery, so if you lose momentum, the vehicle tends to slide back. Proper wheel placement is required. If it rains, the oroading level becomes extreme. Wui is known for its dao making, blacksmiths and pottery. From Wui, there’s a shortcut via a dilapidated wooden bridge over the Chokla river, though the longer route via the steel bridge is more reliable. The road is ok till the bifurcation, and the left route to Kingphu is usually not passable, so take the upper route. It’s slushy, red mud and the route from Kingphu to Sanglao is wide but still a bad stretch.

Noklak: Choklangan Extn

Take a hike to Choklangan Caves

Noklak: C-Saddle-Pangsha-Dan

Drive in from Tuensang via Chendang Saddle and turn o towards Chingmei for the drive to Noklak, the district headquarters. Being a new district, there is a lot of fresh road cutting en route, so be aware of sudden landslides. Bear in mind that it becomes a lot trickier in the rains. Phone network gets patchy towards the interiors. From Noklak one can take a diversion to Langnok and backtrack to Noklak. The route to Pangsha and Dan follows the Makao river and is quite challenging with plenty of slippery red mud and slush.

Mokokchung: Ongpangkong-Asetkong Range

Enter the district from the south and drive up the Ongpangkong range from Longsa to Ungma and Mokokchung. Don’t take the usual NH-61 highway via Chuchuyimlang and Changtonya to Tuli. Instead, take the left diversion from Impur Junction for Mopungchuket-Impur past the Yimchalu village gate and the Rural Tourism Lodge of Sungratsu Village. From Mopungchuket, the tar road continues past Sungotenem Park towards the coffee estates of Khar. Backtrack to the neighbouring village of Sungratsu and drive up the central Asetkong range towards Tuli. The 27 km stretch from Impur Junction till Longpong Bridge is a narrow yet decent tar road, after which the real offroad section begins. Continue via Longjang and Kelingmen – there’s an offroad access to Chuchuyimlang (Route 2) from both places though the Longjang access is more treacherous. From Kelingmen, continue via Asangma to the nodal town of Tuli. Take the left from Tuli Market Junction for Molungyimsen and Molukimong to cover the Jangpetkong Range (Route 3) or continue north of Tuli towards the Assam border and turn in from Yajang C, B, A for the Japukong Range (Route 4) via Lirmen, Anokpu and Mangkolemba to Changki Jucntion.

Mokokchung: Chuchuyimlang Extn

Though Chuchuyimlang lies on the Mokokchung-Changtongya-Tuli NH-61 highway, the offroad access from Longjang or Kelingmen (16 km further up the road) is more interesting and worth the detour. The route from Longjang is tougher with a descent to the Mining river. There’s no bridge and the river crossing is followed by a steep ascent along a narrow, rocky road to Chuchuyimlang. Sometimes this route gets damaged due to landslides, in which case, drive further to Kelingmen and take the right from the T-junction to Chuchuyimlang. This route is moderate in comparison to the first access. Backtrack to Kelingmen if going up to Tuli via Asangma.

Mokokchung: Jangpetkong Range

From Tuli Market Junction turn left for the Jangpetkong Range, which stretches down to Changki Junction, 62 km away. Cross Luyong Bridge as the road climbs steadily from the plains towards Molungyimsen. The road wends past terraces of paddy fields and great mountain views closer to Molungkimong. Drive past Yimjenkimong towards Waromong and the roadside sacred boulder of Jangjanglong. Cross the diversion for Melak river 12 km to the left; there’s no bridge and it’s 4-5 km from there to Asangma. There are multiple diversions going down to the river like the Dibuia-Melak Link Road. Each place has a story behind its name. Dibuia is named after dibu, a particular kind of small bamboo. Alongma, literally ‘a place of stones’, was the rocky lair and holiday spot for legendary Ao lovers Jina and Itiben. Mongchen is one of the highest points in this route and there are scenic viewpoints overlooking Mangkolemba and Maipang Khar. A small footpath marks the trail the American missionaries took towards Impur Mission Centre. The road condition deteriorates as you drive to Chungliyimsen with its ancient tree and 5 km milestone

Mokokchung: Japukong Range

From Tuli Market Junction turn left for the Jangpetkong Range, which stretches down to Changki Junction, 62 km away. Cross Luyong Bridge as the road climbs steadily from the plains towards Molungyimsen. The road wends past terraces of paddy fields and great mountain views closer to Molungkimong. Drive past Yimjenkimong towards Waromong and the roadside sacred boulder of Jangjanglong. Cross the diversion for Melak river 12 km to the left; there’s no bridge and it’s 4-5 km from there to Asangma. There are multiple diversions going down to the river like the Dibuia-Melak Link Road. Each place has a story behind its name. Dibuia is named after dibu, a particular kind of small bamboo. Alongma, literally ‘a place of stones’, was the rocky lair and holiday spot for legendary Ao lovers Jina and Itiben. Mongchen is one of the highest points in this route and there are scenic viewpoints overlooking Mangkolemba and Maipang Khar. A small footpath marks the trail the American missionaries took towards Impur Mission Centre. The road condition deteriorates as you drive to Chungliyimsen with its ancient tree and 5 km milestone

Niuland: Ghotovi Extn

From Niuland the district headquarters, the Hovishe-Ghotovi axis to Longwesenyu in adjoining Tseminyu district connects up via Ziezou and Zhadima to join the Botsa-Kohima highway. The stretch between Ghotovi and Longwesenyu near Rengmapani sometimes witnesses landslides, especially in the rainy season. Always check if the route is open with local villagers before venturing.

Niuland: Ghokuto Extn

From Niuland, drive south towards Hokuto and bypassing the village, drive past Hozukhe, Nikhekhu towards Nihokhu. Between Nikhekhu and Nihokhu, take the left diversion from the fork with the signboard for Ghokuto, an ascent on a track with moderate to steep inclines. Keep steady acceleration because if the RPM drops, the vehicle may stall. The same track would be graded as difficult in the monsoon. Backtrack to Nihokhu and drive via Hokheze to Lavi, a nice lake with fishing facilities.

Difficult

Phek: Akhen Extn

From Akhen there’s an offroad ascent to Molhe Pass near Border Pillar 130 at the Myanmar border. The first part of the climb from Akhen towards BP 130 is beautiful with undulating hills, tracts of pine and wild flowers, including a rare tree bearing white rhododendron flowers! Being a Shaktiman route in active use for timber logging, there aren’t any major obstacles. But as you enter the forest, the track deteriorates into slush. The earth is clayey and some sections are challenging. One needs steady acceleration on second gear, otherwise the vehicle won’t climb, losing steam mid way. On top, the track opens out into a wide plateau at the summit. One has to backtrack on the obstacle course of forest, slush and gravel with a slow and careful descent along a cliff’s edge back to Akhen.

Kiphire: West of the Highway

Turn off the highway after Longmatra village for Honito along a decent patch. From here it is a challenging drive to Nitoi, along a hilly stretch with frequent furrows and ditches. Though the route is moderate, it could get rather tricky in the rains. From Nitoi, continue to Sitimi a kilometer ahead, from where it is a smooth black top to Shishimi, except for a few places where bridges are being constructed. From Shishimi backtrack to Sitimi that has a GREF Camp. Instead of taking the good highway from Sitimi to Seyochung, drive on a black top via Kiyezhe and Natsami to Langzanger. From Langzanger the road deteriorates considerably and becomes difficult after the right deviation for Tsunger. Driving further, the level changes to extreme as you pass through dense forest with an obstacle course of marshy path, water and grass onward to Seyochung. Seyochung to Lukhami is a black top and a well used path. From Lukhami to Kisetong the route is good, as you continue to Changchor.

Most travellers drive straight from Changchor to Amahator but the lower loop is quite an exciting challenge. It’s a descent via the small new settlement of Bilongkyu down in the valley to Keor and uphill to Amahator, the worst stretch. Locals don’t take this loop which is an unused, narrow, grassy path with a sharp drop to the valley. This is easily be regarded as Grade 3 offroad. The route from Amahator to Risethsi New is fine, but turns difficult from Risethsi to Pungrungru due to on-going road cutting work and increased chances of rockfall, despite the road being wide. From Pungrungru drive 30 min on the Rurur route to a massive tree of nearly 40 ft diameter and continue further to Tsuthu. Check out the local textile weaving in the village and time permitting, hike to the ancestor stones in the forest. The road to Tsar Farm is muddy and difficult and can dramatically become extreme with one rain. Drive towards Kiphire and 6-7 km north of town, stop at a nice picnic spot where one can have a bath in the river and clean the vehicles.

Peren: Ngam Extn

The drive from Ngam to Lalong is through thick forest and lots of slush. The path is taken by timber trucks so expect huge clayey furrows all along. Lalong was originally called Kleubanglo or ‘Pine Tree Village’ and has 97 homes and a pretty Baptist Church. This is known as the Kicha area, after the mountain that dominates the landscape.

Peren: Ahthibung Extn

From Ahthibung, junk the highway to Bongkolong and Gopibung (Zero Point) and take the offroad via the ancient Kuki village of Songlhuh to Old Beisumpui, which eventually connects via Songsang, Beisumpui Zangdi to Lower Sinjol. This stretch promises perhaps the slowest pace of travel you can expect in Peren district and three days of intense offroading action.

Mon: Zangkham-Longwa Extn

Head north of Mon on the highway to Lampong Sheanghah and take the diversion to the right at Langsa arch with Apang grocery shop. It’s a slow drive at approx. 15 km/hr towards Longpho and the road is ok till Shangnyu. After this, the track deteriorates from a mud path to a slushy trail. Continue towards Nyasa/Nyasha and at the fork, take the road going up north to the end of the trail at Zangkham (the right goes down to Longwa). There are lots of big stones so watch out for bumps and damage to the under carriage of the vehicle. It’s best to take it slow. Backtrack to Nyasha and drive past Pukha to Wetting. It’s a very bad road with occasional landslides, which might have to be cleared. Vehicles tend to get snared in slush and have to be winched out. From Wetting drive on a 4×4 track till Phomching and turn left to join the main road access from Mon to Longwa. Backtrack to Phomching and drive via Tangnyu back to Mon. The 42 km Longwa-Mon drive is easily one of the most beautiful in northern Nagaland; a journey through misty heights and verdant fields where a sunny day suddenly transforms into a magical drizzle. Drive past scenic bridges and quaint Konyak settlements with lovely old homes bearing interesting pillar carvings, old log drums and ornamental doors.

Mon: Shinnyu-Eyeang Extn

This southern access starts from Dan in Noklak district and enters Mon district at Shinnyu till Eyeang, from where one can head northward along the border to Pessao or turn left via the adjoining settlement of Yongkhao for Tobu, a distance of 79 km from Dan (See Route 1). It tends to get foggy in this border tract so watch out for the track edges if visibility is poor. It takes about 2 hours from Dan to Shinnyu on a 4×4 track, and 2 hours to Eyeang, a slightly better section. The route from Yongkhao to Tobu is a hard surface paved with small stones and takes 5-6 hours. If doing this in reverse while coming from Tobu, it is a good offroad access to Noklak district.

Extreme

Phek: Kami-Kapamodzu

The regular access to Kapamodzu is via Zhavame but there’s an extreme off-road route from Kami to Kapamodzu. A Polaris route had been created few years ago for Pfutsero Experience but this access is tricky as the forest path is barely wide enough for four-wheelers in some sections. Proper wheel placement is crucial, down to the last inch. The foliage is dense and overgrown with bamboo thickets, evergreen native trees and fallen tree trunks and the route is sunless because of the thick canopy. Some ascents seem deceptively mild but are full of complexities due to ground conditions. Keeping momentum on wet soggy earth, slippery undergrowth, hidden rocks and acute slopes flanking the narrow muddy forest track offer little traction on caked tyres so the tendency to skid or go into wheel spin remains high. This route demands technical driving skills and quick thinking and response. Be prepared to winch, push, tug and claw your way up to Kapamodzu; a battle fought inch by inch. For offroaders, it’s insane 4×4 action. Don’t attempt it alone.

Kiphire: Khong Extn

Turn in from Longkhimong via Tsurevong towards Khong. In May-June, one can pluck the susel-zee-ken berries lining the roadside. The thorny shrub – zee means ‘thorn’ and ken is ‘fruit’ in Yimkhiung – yields wild orange berries whose fresh burst of sweetness is perfect after a long drive. It’s great survival food in the outdoors – watch out for thorns while plucking and be mindful of the road edge. Beyond the Baptist Church, the road cutting has been abandoned after a short distance. However there’s a steep walking trail nearby that leads down to the Vorhrta river. The track descends through a dense and winding bamboo forest. This route serves as an extreme offroad drive that requires technical skill. Do not attempt this route alone. The path suddenly trails off down a steep boulder ridden slope that leads to the river, accessible only on foot. Turn back and do not attempt driving down to the river. The 4×4 return drive to Khong is equally challenging and demands winching one’s way up due to the gradient of the terrain and slippery bamboo. Locals take around 1½ hrs to trek from Khong to Thanamir by this route.