Mon is the northern-most district of
Nagaland. It is flanked by
Sibsagar District of
Assam in the west,
Longleng District of Nagaland in the south, Myanmar in the east and
Tirap District of
Arunachal Pradesh in the north-east. It is headquartered at
Mon, which is at an altitude of 898 m above sea level.
The graphical picture of this district shows it to be a hilly area with steep slopes. Topographically, Mon District is divided into two – the Upper Region comprising Longching, Chen, Mopong and Tobu areas, and the Lower Region comprising Mon, Tizit and Naginimora areas. Agriculture is the main occupation of the people.
Rich in its flora and fauna, Mon District provides a natural habitat to different species. The main forests in Mon are Shingphan, Wanching, Tiru, Zangkhum, Shawot and Chen forests. Some of the main rivers flowing through the district are Dikhu, Tizit, Tehok, Tekang, Tapi, Kaimang, Yityong and Telangsao, the first being the most important river. These river systems offer good fishing grounds, picnic spots and rafting.
Mon District is rich in culture and tradition. Aoling Monyu and Laolongmo are the major festivals celebrated in this area. Shawot (2,414 m) is the highest peak in the district. Other peaks are Tamkong (2,000 m), Monyakshu (1,850 m), Ngupdang (1,554 m), Chikho (1,500 m) and Chiknyuho (1,500 m).
Major tourist spots include
Wakching, Mon, Shangnyu, Chui, Longwa, Angphang, Monyakshu, Pessao and Changlangshu which are famous for wood carving and Sheanghachingnyu, Langmeang and Longwa famous for skull exhibits. Chiknyuho, Ngupdang and Longwa are famous for Second World War remains and rock inscriptions. Yei, Monyakshu, Pessao, Yongkao and Tamkong are the spots of attraction for ornithologists and for watching Tragopan birds.
