Kohima

Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, is a unique hill station that combines natural beauty with the rich culture and traditions of its local people. Nestled in the northeastern hills of India, Kohima offers an intriguing blend of scenic landscapes and vibrant local life, making it a must-visit destination for tourists.

Getting There

Your best bet to travel to Kohima is to fly into Dimapur or take a train there, and then drive to Kohima. Dimapur, in Assam, is the main communication hub for travelling anywhere in Nagaland. Dimapur has its own airport and railway station, with direct flights connecting to Kolkata daily. It is also well-connected by train, with about a dozen trains passing through Dimapur every day to different parts of the country. The Rajdhani Express and other trains connect Delhi with Nagaland. Although Dimapur is in Assam, the Nagaland border is just a 15-minute drive away. The journey from Dimapur to Kohima is a beautiful one, covering about 65 km in approximately 2.5 hours.

If you are arriving at Guwahati, which is better connected to the rest of the country, you will need to drive to Kohima via Dimapur. This is a long 290 km journey that may take up to 7 hours.

The Town

The small hill station of Kohima is situated at an altitude of about 1,450 meters or 4,800 feet. With a population of around 150,000, the roads can be quite crowded during peak business hours due to rampant urbanization in recent years. The city is dominated by the Angamis and Aos, who are among the largest of the 16 tribes living in Nagaland.

The Hornbill Festival

The Hornbill Festival is a major cultural event in Nagaland, aimed at promoting the unique culture, traditions, music, dance, and crafts of the tribes of Nagaland. Initially started by a voluntary organization, it was soon taken over by the Nagaland government. The festival has grown in popularity and is now one of the most important cultural tourism events in India. It normally starts on the first day of December and continues for about a week or more. The festival is a photographer's delight, with colourfully dressed ethnic people from the 16 different tribes of Nagaland gathering together for festivities that include dance, music, food, handicrafts, and sports. The festival is held at Kisama Heritage Village, on the outskirts of Kohima town.

Insurgency and Security

The Naga people are fierce warriors with an independent nature. Since 1834, when the British tried to annex the region, they have been fighting for their independent status. After India's independence from British rule, the Naga people wanted their own separate country. Today, they have broadly assimilated into the national mainstream, but insurgency and calls for independence are still not uncommon. The Naga people are generally quite hospitable. For your safety, avoid venturing too far beyond the city limits, especially after dark. If you are travelling with us, we will provide you with the latest updates through our guide or coordinator regarding the dos and don'ts of travelling to Nagaland.

Alcohol

Nagaland is a dry state and has remained so for close to four decades now. However, Kohima, being close to the Assam border, gets its regular supply of grey market liquor, which is not very difficult to come by. Officially, the possession, sale, consumption, and manufacture of alcohol are banned in Nagaland.

What to See

Kohima War Cemetery

The World War II cemetery in Kohima is located not far from the city centre, yet it is quite peaceful and secluded. This historical place is also famous for the Kohima Epitaph, which reads: "When you go home, tell them of us and say, For your tomorrow, we gave our today."

Nagaland State Museum

Visit the state museum for artefacts of the local people and an insight into their history and culture. The museum is located in the centre of the city.

World War II Museum

This museum is located in Kisama village, where the Hornbill Festival is held. It is a good place to understand the history of WWII and the role Nagaland played in the war.

Khonoma Village

A village walk is a must if you are visiting Nagaland. The Khonoma village is just half an hour's drive from Kohima. Hire the services of a local guide who will explain the village's history and the many wars it fought. The unique culture of the people of Nagaland can be seen in the village, unhindered by tourist activity.

Best Time to Visit Kohima

The best time to visit Kohima is between October and May. During these months, the weather is pleasant, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The Hornbill Festival in December is a highlight, attracting tourists from all over the world. Anytime except the monsoon months of July and August is suitable for a visit to Kohima and its surrounding area.

Local Cuisine

Nagaland offers a unique culinary experience with its traditional dishes. Try the local specialities such as smoked pork, bamboo shoot dishes, and a variety of fermented foods. Kohima has several restaurants and eateries where you can savour authentic Naga cuisine.

Shopping in Kohima

Kohima has several markets where you can buy traditional Naga handicrafts, textiles, and jewellery. The Kisama Heritage Village during the Hornbill Festival is a great place to shop for souvenirs and experience the local culture.

Adventure Activities

For adventure enthusiasts, Kohima offers several trekking and hiking opportunities. The Dzukou Valley trek is particularly popular, known for its stunning landscapes and rare flowers. Other activities include exploring the Japfu Peak and camping in the surrounding areas.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options are limited in Kohima, especially in the high-end category. During the Hornbill Festival, most hotels are sold out months in advance. While homestays are mostly basic, there are many available around Kohima. Staying in a homestay is an excellent way to interact with the local people and learn about their culture. Several hotels have come up in and around Kohima in recent years. But during peak season time there is still a shortage of accommodation here. The Officers Hill area is a hub for hotels, the Naga Bazar area also has several hotels. We recommend you consult our guest assistance executives for a fair idea about the present accommodation scenario at Kohima.

Our Services

HUMRO TOURS organizes regular tours to Kohima and its surrounding areas. If you are planning a trip during the Hornbill Festival, we highly recommend that you contact us early to avoid disappointment. During the rest of the year, all our tour programs are customized according to guest requirements. We will organize a tour for you based on your interests, budget, and time constraints. Feel free to get in touch with our team for suggestions and a tour plan tailored to you.