Nagaland has a way of surprising you—again and again. Just when you think you’ve had your share of adventure, a place like the Konyak heritage village near Mon rises before you like a doorway into another era. My visit to this village was one of the most immersive cultural experiences I’ve ever had in the North East.

The best part was that I found a fabulous guest house in Mon village. It is called The Mountain View Stay, and it is run by a lovely young Naga lady named Ani—a very fair and vivacious woman. She has been hosting me at this serene guest house located on top of Mon village. I get a complete view of the mountains and the village from my balcony at this beautiful homestay. It sits at a height, but it has been a cosy nest for me for the past few days.

“You are my first customer, you know. I just opened this guest house. Don’t mind the construction work—they are renovating the windows. There might be some noise at night if the workers are still at it. I will be serving you dinner, lunch, and breakfast,” Ani said as she welcomed me to her Mountain View Stay.

A cool mountain breeze brushed against my face, sending a chill down my spine, but I was happy to finally have a place to sleep at night. The room was comfortable, with warm blankets and hot water. There is a mirror on the wall and a table lamp for writing at night.

Ani has been very efficient and kept me well-fed throughout the day. I was even served cakes and cookies for tea. Lunch and dinner included pork, chicken, and fish curry with green peas and papad. The food was perfect—not too spicy. I loved the weather and the cosy, rustic vibes of this place.

“I will serve you beef curry tonight. You will love it—Naga style,” Ani told me.
“Yes, I like beef. I grew up in England, so I’m used to eating beef,” I replied.

Mountain View Stay

“I hope you don’t mind… what is your age, sir?” Ani asked politely.
“I’m fifty—well, fifty-one actually,” I replied, pleasantly surprised at the personal question.

“No, I saw on the internet that your father was murdered. I am very sorry,” Ani said in a sombre tone.
“Yes, that was a tragedy. A big one. It changed the entire course of my life. But it’s been fourteen years now. I travel now, and I write books,” I shared with her.

“So you like Naga women? Have you ever dated a tribal woman? I’m sure many women would want to be with you for your money,” Ani teased. I smiled and giggled like a schoolgirl.

“Why? What about you—are you single?” I asked playfully.
“No, I am married. My husband stays with me here,” she said, pointing to her house below the homestay.
“You have kids?” I asked.
“No, we just married not long ago,” Ani replied.

“Let me get you coffee, and if you go for a walk in the evening, I will clean up your room,” Ani said sweetly. She has been a wonderful hostess, and I would recommend anyone coming to Mon to stay at The Mountain View Stay.