Naga

There are estimated more than 150,000 Nagas, comprising of 12 major tribes and
many sub-tribes, dwelling in Myanmar. Since hundreds years, Nagas live high in
the northwestern hills region, along the India border, but in recent years, many
have moved to the Chin Dwin River Valley around the Sagaing Division and Chin
State.
Despite they share basically in agricultural, hunting, and animal husbandry
lifestyle, each tribe has developed in a different way that can be observed in
individual costumes, weaving styles, bodies and facial tattoos, head-dresses or
hats and other individualized ornaments.
That there can be proud and having people, Nagas are well known that they are
honest and brave. An adult Naga man must be a warrior. Therefore they are re
known hunters' and fierce warriors. Their exiting history inclusive of the
practice of head-taking, especially among enemies. Today, they cooperate in an
effort to preserve their traditions and history. Other major components such as
education, technology and modern transportation have improved living conditions.
Annually, in January, many different kinds of Naga tribes come together to
celebrate Kaing Bi (Naga New Year). Formerly it was a private celebration; it is
now open to the public.
Naga Tribal Museum
Naga Tribal Museum is aiming to preserve the traditional artifacts and relics
which representing for all the Naga sub tribes.
It was founded in 2004 and had been planned to appear for many years. The Naga
Cultural Committee is cooperating with the Naga people to be collected the
numerous artifacts before the museum was opened.
Nowadays, the Naga people have a good opportunity to preserve their heritage in
this museum as a mark of pride and consideration.
Naga Traditional New Year Festival 2009
January 12: The Charter
Flight leaves Yangon early in the morning for a short
stop at Mandalay International Airport, and farther to
Khanti Airport. After the arrival there, Guests are
transported by local mortor vehicles (trucks/lorries) to
the Ferry on the Chindwin River. On the other side of
the river lies Sinthei Village. Then move farther by 4x4
Off Road Pickups to Lahae, while on the way falling into
a trance charmed by the panorama of Naga Mountain
Ranges. Box Lunch is served at the rest station on
pleasant Namsalain Stream, where Guests have a chance to
enjoy rare local amenities. After dinner in Lahae, a
night's rest and further stay is arranged in the Naga
indigenous huts.
January 13: After breakfast,
a roam or an observation in the surrounding
neighbourhood and villages can be taken by riding in a
car, or on foot through one's own arrangement. Lunch
Boxes can be ordered in advance at the Reception for
that purpose. An informative video feature on Naga is
entertained after dinner.
January 14: Guests may take
part in the Naga traditional "Ceremony of Erection of
Pole" from 9:00 am to 11:00 am, and may go for a walk
around the vicinity of the Festival.
January 15: After breakfast,
Guests take their places on the Festival grounds to
attend the traditional "Opening Ceremony of Naga New
Year", commencing at 8:30 am. In the evening, from 06:30
to 10:00 pm, Guests take pleasure in the bonfire and
Naga traditional dances while enjoying traditional food
and rice wine-self-help basis.
January 16: To leave Lahae
at 5:00am and head back home after having breakfast at
4:00am. Box Lunch is served at Khanti Ferry. And
services come to an end at Khanti Airport.
Tour Cost : 1250 USD (per pax)
Tour inclusive:
- Transportation
- Domestic flight to and from Yangon
- Shuttle Boat between Khanti and Sinthei
Village
- Four wheel drive between Sinthei Village and
Lahae
- Accommodation
- 4 nights at Naga Traditional House
- Meals
- American Breakfast
- Buffet Lunch and dinner during festival
Tour exclusive:
- English speaking through out guide service (US $
600 for the whole trip) (optional)
- Accommodation in Yangon and other places
- Transfer and transportation in Yangon and other
places
- Extra tours not mentioned in the program
- Entrance Fees