The Tikhir tribe, mainly residing in the eastern regions of Nagaland, traces its history to early settlements that grew through clan-based communities spread across the hills. Traditionally, the Tikhirs lived through shifting cultivation and maintained strong village systems governed by councils of elders who upheld customary laws. Their identity became more distinct over time through shared cultural practices, inter-clan relationships, and a deep connection to their ancestral land, shaping the tribe into a cohesive and resilient community.

Tikhir culture is closely tied to the agricultural cycle, with ceremonies that emphasize renewal, gratitude, and community bonding. Their major festival, Tsonglaknye, celebrates purification and transition into a new agricultural season through rituals, dances, traditional games, and communal feasts. Cultural expressions such as folk songs, rhythmic drum music, and ceremonial gatherings highlight their unity, agricultural heritage, and reverence for ancestral customs.

Traditional Tikhir attire reflects bold patterns and handwoven designs, with men wearing shawls and headgear decorated with feathers or animal motifs, symbolizing status and identity. Women wear vibrant wrap-around skirts, woven scarves, and bead necklaces that showcase their artistic skill. Handloom weaving, bamboo crafts, and beadwork remain important traditions that preserve their aesthetic craftsmanship and cultural pride.

The Tikhir people value honesty, cooperation, respect for elders, and loyalty to clan and community, guided by traditional norms that emphasize balance and responsibility. Their belief system historically centers on harmony with nature, gratitude for harvests, and maintaining peaceful relationships within the village. Principles of hard work, humility, and mutual support shape the moral foundation of Tikhir society.