Architect Richard Belho, Chairman of the Zyronique Initiative Society, said that the Konyak Heritage Complex, currently under development, will heavily incorporate traditional materials, particularly wood and thatch, in its construction. Belho explained that the design of the complex aims to reflect and preserve Konyak cultural heritage by utilizing natural, traditional materials more extensively than similar projects like the Kisama Heritage Complex.
“The heritage complex is designed so that all nine constituencies can build their own Morung using traditional skills,” Belho told MT. “It has a place where everyone can come, participate, and learn throughout the year. There’s also an open space for events like birthdays and weddings.” He added that the complex is expected to be completed by next year.
The Konyak Heritage Complex is being developed under the “Schemes of NEC” in Hybrid Mode. According to meeting minutes from January 2023, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the complex, amounting to Rs 25.51 crore, was submitted by the Government of Nagaland to the North Eastern Council (NEC) on January 2, 2022, based on the Nagaland PWD SoR 2022. The project, situated at an elevation of 897.64 meters above sea level, is set to occupy approximately 28 acres.
During a Sectoral Empowered Committee (SEC) meeting held on October 19, 2022, under the chairmanship of an NEC member, it was confirmed that the DPR had been scrutinized from both technical and financial perspectives. The project cost was finalized at Rs 22.79 crore, inclusive of GST, contingency, and consultancy fees. The Department of Underdeveloped Areas (DUDA), Nagaland, also verified the project, emphasizing its role in preserving Konyak cultural heritage and transforming the region into a significant tourist destination.
The Konyak Heritage Complex is expected to benefit the largest tribal community in Nagaland—the Konyak Naga—bordering the Indo-Myanmar region. Upon completion, the complex will be handed over to the Konyak community, with the local administration overseeing the transfer. The community will also be responsible for the complex’s maintenance.
The project is anticipated to attract around 50,000 tourists annually, including visitors from Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and even international tourists. The unique traditional tattooing and blacksmithing practices of the region are expected to receive a significant boost. Additionally, the complex will feature a museum showcasing tribal artifacts.
Representatives from DUDA, the Government of Nagaland, and the project’s architect confirmed that the complex’s design aligns with community values, with only essential elements included.