State of India

Nagaland

Reported Last updated 11 Oct 2026

Nagaland is a state in north-eastern India with its capital at Kohima. The 2011 Census recorded a population of 1,978,502 over an area of about 16,579 km².

Capital
Kohima
Area
16,579 km²
Population
1,978,502
Year 2011 · Census of India 2011
Density
119.3 /km²
Calculated
Formed
1 December 1963
Official language(s)
English

Overview

Nagaland is home to many Naga tribes – including the Angami, Ao, Sumi, Lotha, Konyak and Chakhesang – each with distinct traditions, dress and languages. Every December the Hornbill Festival at Kisama near Kohima brings them together in a celebration of music, dance, food and crafts that attracts visitors from around the world.

Districts of Nagaland

The district directory for Nagaland has not been published yet.

History & formation

The Naga Hills were part of Assam during British rule. Kohima saw one of the decisive battles of the Second World War in 1944. Nagaland became the 16th state of India on 1 December 1963.

Geography

The state is hilly and forested, with Mount Saramati on the Myanmar border as its highest peak and the Dzükou Valley famous for its seasonal lilies.

Economy, agriculture & industry

Most people depend on agriculture, including terraced and jhum cultivation. Handicrafts and tourism are growing.

Culture, festivals & cuisine

English is the official language, and Nagamese serves as a common language between communities. Traditional Naga shawls, wood carving and morungs (dormitories) are part of its heritage.

State symbols

State symbols for Nagaland are awaiting editorial verification. We only list symbols confirmed by an official source.

Legislature & representation

Details
LegislatureUnicameral
Legislative Assembly (Vidhan Sabha) seats60
Lok Sabha constituencies1
Rajya Sabha seats1

Seat figures as of January 2025 · source.

Sources & references

  1. Census of India 2011 – state population and area – Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India (2011) , retrieved 10 Oct 2026 – Population and area Reported
  2. Election Commission of India – delimitation and seats – Election Commission of India , retrieved 10 Oct 2026 – Lok Sabha and Assembly seat counts Reported