MUSEUM

Nestled in the tranquil highlands of Pfutsero sub-division in Phek district, Zapami village stands as a vibrant testament to the rich cultural heritage of the Kuzhami-speaking Chakhesang Nagas. Recognized as a Heritage Village, Zapami is more than just a settlement—it's a living cultural landscape where traditional practices like nettle fiber weaving continue to thrive.

Central to the village's cultural preservation is the Zapami Heritage Museum, founded in 2016-17 by the Village Council. This museum is a prime example of community-driven heritage conservation, curated with passion by the villagers themselves. With approximately 350 antique objects sourced from local households, the museum offers a rare glimpse into the past, shedding light on the Chakhesang community’s values, history, and daily life.

Visitors to the Zapami Heritage Museum are transported into a world where every artifact tells a story. The collection includes tools for cotton processing, weapons, shields, and farming implements, reflecting the ingenuity and self-sufficiency of Zapami's ancestors. The museum’s focus on textile and weaving traditions is particularly significant, showcasing tools related to nettle fiber weaving—a practice still alive in the village.

Notable items in the museum include:

• Wooden vats for brewing rice beer

• Metal vessels, baskets, and black pottery used before aluminum became common

• Musical instruments once played during festivals

• Traditional weights and measures

• World War II memorabilia detailing the war’s local impact

• A model of a traditional house, built with bamboo mechanisms in place of modern locks

The museum also highlights unique cultural elements, such as the "Tsu" log drum used to announce village events and a model traditional wrestling ring, a key feature during festivals. The Zapami Heritage Museum is a living museum, with the village itself offering a dynamic cultural experience that invites visitors to engage with both the past and present of the Chakhesang community.

Mopungchuket, a picturesque village located just 16 kilometers from Mokokchung town, is a well-preserved cultural destination managed by the Mopungchuket Village Council. Inhabited by the Ao Naga community, the village is rich in folklore and traditions. It is home to a small museum, the Mopungchuket Senso Mungdang (MSM), which is managed by a local community body. The museum showcases several artifacts that reflect the village's vibrant history, with one of the most significant being the remnants of Ahom army swords, left behind by Ahom soldiers after their failed attempt to conquer Mopungchuket in 1832. The community takes pride in sharing the tale of their victory, which is deeply embedded in local folklore, adding a personal touch to the museum experience.

The museum also features other historical and cultural items, including 'chaplee', the ancient currency of the Ao Nagas, traditional Ao shawls and textiles, musical instruments, and a miniature model of the village’s Morung (an ancient learning institution for youth). These exhibits offer a glimpse into the daily life and practices of the Ao Naga community.

Additionally, the village boasts a traditional Morung located at its entrance. This structure not only serves as a heritage attraction for visitors but also preserves the cultural legacy of the Ao Nagas. Visitors can also explore a village map and a leaflet highlighting other attractions of Mopungchuket, making it an enriching stop for those interested in the cultural heritage of the Ao Naga community. The preservation of these traditions makes Mopungchuket a valuable cultural hub, where history and heritage are celebrated and shared with visitors.