Phek district is an administrative district in the state of Nagaland in north-eastern India. The town of Phek serves as its district headquarters. The district is inhabited predominantly by the Chakhesang and Pochury Naga communities and is known for its terraced wet-rice cultivation, rich biodiversity, and traditional handlooms.
| Country | India |
|---|---|
| State | Nagaland |
| Headquarters | Phek |
| Region | North-East India |
| Major communities | Chakhesang Naga, Pochury Naga |
| Languages | Chokri, Khezha, Pochury, English (official) |
Phek district lies in the south-eastern part of Nagaland. It shares boundaries with Kohima district to the west, Zunheboto district to the north, and the international border with Myanmar to the east. The district is largely hilly, with elevations rising sharply across ranges that form part of the broader Naga Hills. Important natural features include Shilloi Lake (Lutsam), a freshwater lake of cultural significance, and the Glory of Meluri (Dzudu Lake). The Tizu river drains parts of the district.
The district is divided into several sub-divisions and administrative circles centred on towns such as Pfutsero, Meluri, Chetheba, Chozuba, Sekruzu and Phek itself. Pfutsero, situated at one of the highest altitudes among Nagaland's towns, is a notable urban centre within the district. Meluri was later carved out as a separate district, reorganising the boundaries of Phek.
Phek district was created in 1973 when it was separated from the erstwhile Kohima district as part of the reorganisation of Nagaland's administrative units after statehood was granted in 1963. The name "Phek" is locally said to derive from a word meaning "watch tower," reflecting the strategic hill location of the headquarters town.
The economy of Phek is predominantly agrarian. The district is recognised for its terraced paddy cultivation, particularly the indigenous wet-rice systems practised by Chakhesang farmers, alongside jhum (shifting) cultivation in some areas. Other important produce includes maize, millets, large cardamom, tea, and a variety of indigenous fruits. Handwoven shawls and traditional textiles from communities in Phek are widely sought after in Naga markets.
Festivals such as Sukrunye (Chakhesang) and Yemshe (Pochury) are central to the cultural calendar of the district. Christianity, primarily through Baptist denominations, is the dominant religion.
Phek district contains significant ecological zones, including stretches of subtropical and temperate forest. The area around Shilloi Lake and the surrounding Patkai-aligned ranges supports varied flora and fauna and is associated with several local conservation initiatives.
The district is connected by road to Kohima and Dimapur via state highways. The nearest railhead and airport are at Dimapur. Internal road connectivity links the major towns of Pfutsero, Chozuba and Meluri to Phek town.