Zunheboto District

Zunheboto derived its name from two sets of words "Zunhebo" and "To" in Sumi dialect. Zunhebo is the name of a flowering shurb with white leaves which bear sponge like ears containing sweet juice and "To" means the top of a hill. Zunheboto District is situated in the heart of Nagaland and is bounded by Mokokchung district in the East and Wokha district in the West.

Zunheboto is the home of the Sumis. Sumis are considered to be the Martial tribe among the Nagas. They have their colourful dance and songs. Their ceremonial war dresses are worth seeing. Tuluni is one of the most important festivals. It is observed in the second week of July every year.

There are high hills spread over many areas of the district. The hills vary from 1000 to 2500 metres and most people live between 1500 - 2000 metres altitude. The Altitude of the district HQ. Zunheboto  is 1874.22 mtrs above sea level. Most of the population resides in rural areas. Zunheboto Town is the only designated urban area of the district. Owing to the high altitude, this district enjoys a monsoon climate almost throughout the year. Winters are very cold but summers moderately warm. December and January form the coldest part of the season.

There are three important rivers in the district, viz, Tizu river originating in Tuensang district which flows down towards south crossing at the centre of Zunheboto district and joining Chindwin. Doyang river originating in Japfu passes through the west part of the district and joins Dhansiri in Assam. Tsutha river, originating in North East of Zunheboto flows through the eastern part of the district and joins Tizu below Nihoshe village, where a Mini Hydel Power project is located.

Some of the important sectors of Phek District are: