Visiting the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary (KNCTS) in Khonoma, Nagaland, offers an opportunity to experience the rich biodiversity and unique cultural heritage of the region. The ideal time to plan your trip is between the months of October and May. This period avoids the heavy monsoon rains that can be prevalent from June to September, often making travel cumbersome and outdoor activities less enjoyable. During these recommended months, visitors will find comfortable temperatures and clearer skies, providing optimal conditions for nature walks, bird watching, and exploring the sanctuary's diverse landscapes. The green terraces following the harvest season are particularly picturesque as well.
December is especially notable because you can witness the vibrant Angami Tribe's annual festival, the Hornbill Festival, typically held during the first week of December. This cultural extravaganza showcases traditional dances, crafts, sports, and food, offering an authentic insight into the local heritage. Moreover, the transition from winter to spring, which covers late February to early April, presents the sanctuary in full bloom, with rhododendrons and other wildflowers adding a splash of color to the verdant hills. Bird enthusiasts may also prefer this period for the best chance to glimpse the sanctuary's namesake, the endangered Blyth's Tragopan, along with a variety of other exotic species that inhabit the region.
