About Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary
Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary is a community-managed protected area surrounding Khonoma village in Kohima District, Nagaland, about 20 km west of Kohima. Established in 1998 by the village council, it covers about 70 sq km of forested hills and is India's first community-led conservation reserve. It protects the endangered Blyth's tragopan, Nagaland's state bird, along with diverse flora and fauna, and is integral to Khonoma's status as India's first Green Village.
Visitors guide
Visitors can expect forested hills, terraced fields and well-marked nature trails around the historic Angami village of Khonoma. The sanctuary offers dense subtropical and temperate forests with opportunities to see Blyth's tragopan and other birds, orchids and wildlife. Exploration is on foot with local guides through conservation forests, viewpoints over the valley, and the village itself with traditional morungs, memorials and homestays. Facilities are basic and community-run.
Key highlights
- 01
India's first community-conserved sanctuary covering about 70 sq km around Khonoma village
- 02
Habitat of the endangered Blyth's tragopan, the state bird of Nagaland
- 03
Part of Khonoma Green Village, known for banning hunting and logging since 1998