The history of Phek is deeply intertwined with the heritage of the Chakhesang and Pochury tribes. The name "Phek" is derived from the word *Phekrekedze*, which translates to "watchtower" in the local Khezha dialect. Historically, the area was a strategic vantage point used by indigenous villagers to watch for approaching enemies or wild animals.
For centuries, the region operated as a series of sovereign village-states with complex social structures and warrior traditions. The Chakhesang identity itself is a historical composite—formed in 1946 from the Chokri, Khezha, and Sangtam communities (the name 'Cha-khe-sang' being an acronym of these three). During the British colonial era, the area fell under the Naga Hills district, administered from Kohima.
Following India's independence and the subsequent formation of the state of Nagaland in 1963, Phek remained a subdivision of the Kohima district. As the region developed and the need for localized administration grew, Phek was officially inaugurated as a full-fledged district on December 21, 1973. Since then, Phek town has grown from a modest hilltop settlement into an important administrative, educational, and cultural hub in southern Nagaland.
