Your Perfect Guide To Kohima: Places To Visit, Things To Do, Where To Eat And Stay, And More

Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, was established alongside the Angami village of the same name by the British in the 19th century. In the Angami language, "Kewhima" translates to "the land where the flower Kewhi grows." The British anglicised the name to Kohima. This picturesque hill station is characterised by winding roads that traverse a series of ridges and hilltops. It is a major tourist attraction during winter, especially for those who come to enjoy the Hornbill Festival. Kohima boasts an inviting climate, breathtaking scenery, and warm, welcoming locals. This charming city is the perfect destination for a few days of exploration and discovery. A helpful tip: Kohima is spread across multiple hills and ridges and can only be navigated by car or motorcycle.

Places To Visit In Kohima

Mary Help Of Christians Cathedral

This architecturally remarkable building is considered the largest cathedral in the Northeast. Designed in the Naga-Gothic style, the cathedral features a semi-circular layout that harmoniously blends Christian and Naga cultural elements and artwork, making it a significant historical monument. A notable highlight of the cathedral is the 16-foot-high carved wooden crucifix. The cathedral was officially consecrated in April 1991, following a peace memorial service that involved war veterans from England and Japan. These veterans had fought in the Battle of Kohima, the last battle in the East during the Second World War, and gathered for a service focused on reconciliation and peace.

Address: Aradurah Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797005

Tuophema

Tuophema Tourist Village, established in 2001 as a community initiative by the residents of Tuophema, is the result of collaborative efforts among the various khels, or clans, within the village. Now recognised as a model for rural homestays for other tribes in Nagaland and beyond, this tourist village offers a unique insight into rural life. You can stay in a traditional Angami house while enjoying the tranquility of the village. Tuophema is a close-knit community that welcomes tourists from near and far, allowing them to experience Angami hospitality. A guided walk around the village will take you through the old and new sections, featuring Baptist churches, and an amphitheatre. Near the huts, a small museum showcases Angami dresses, headdresses, weapons, jewellery, and household and ritual items relevant to the area. Visitors can enjoy the crisp mountain air, breathtaking views of the valleys and mountains for miles, and some of the most spectacular sunsets and sunrises they will ever see.

Kohima War Cemetery

This beautifully preserved site honours the gravestones of nearly 1,500 soldiers from India, Britain, and the Commonwealth, who bravely lost their lives during the intense three-month Battle of Kohima. This critical battle accounted for over 10,000 casualties. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission, responsible for maintaining this and many other cemeteries worldwide, reports that this cemetery includes 1,420 Commonwealth burials from the Second World War, alongside a poignant memorial for an additional 917 Hindu and Sikh soldiers who were cremated in line with their traditions. The cemetery also has a memorial for the 2nd Battalion of the Dorsetshire Regiment, along with several other regimental memorials located on and near Garrison Hill. As you approach the entrance, you will encounter a memorial dedicated to the 2nd Division, which features the powerful and enduring words:

"When you go home,

Tell them of us and say,

For your tomorrow,

We gave our today."

Located at the crossroads leading to Dimapur and Imphal, this serene area serves as a peaceful oasis amidst the bustling urban sprawl and traffic congestion of Kohima. It reminds us of courage, sacrifice, and the enduring spirit of those who fought for our freedom.

Timings: Open everyday from 9am-4pm. 

Kohima State Museum

This museum, maintained by Nagaland's Directorate of Art and Culture, is a treasure trove of ancient artefacts, tribal art, and traditional clothing, offering an unforgettable glimpse into the rich heritage of the tribes of the state. The collection vividly illustrates Naga life, showcasing intricate architecture, miniature depictions of the different houses and traditional huts across Nagaland, weapons, tools, clothing, and more. With models and engaging dioramas, the museum truly brings to life the vibrant socio-cultural landscape of Nagaland.

Address: Upper Bayavü Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797121

Khonoma Village

Khonoma, located about 20 kilometres from Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, is India’s first green village. It is an inspiring example of sustainable, community-led conservation efforts. Khonoma was the first village in Nagaland to ban hunting and logging, leading to its ecosystem revival. Today, Khonoma is celebrated for its lush forests, terraced fields, and commitment to preserving nature. Travellers can participate in eco-tourism activities, nature walks, and birdwatching, all while contributing to the village's conservation initiatives.

Things To Do In Kohima

Go Trekking

Just 15 kilometres south of the city lies the breathtaking Japfu Peak, which stands at 3,940 meters and is considered one of the best trekking destinations in the region. Behind the peak is the Dzuokou Valley, where a winding stream flows—sometimes freezing in winter. In spring, the valley blooms with lilies and rhododendrons. The Dzuokou Valley is part of the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary, where you can hire local guides for a four-day trek into the heart of the sanctuary.

Check Out Cherry Blossoms

Nagaland is home to the remarkable wild Himalayan cherry blossoms, which burst into vibrant bloom from January to April and September to November. You can immerse yourself in this enchanting spectacle at the Kohima Botanical Garden.

Rent A Bike

Discover the thrill of biking in Kohima, where you can rent bikes for day trips or daily adventures. Explore popular trails like Lugsad and Bakahan—each offering a unique experience. Nagaland boasts well-maintained roads, making it perfect for both seasoned riders and beginners in mountain driving.

Take In The Nightlife

Exploring Kohima's nightlife is an unforgettable experience you won't want to miss. The city offers a fantastic selection of eateries where you can savour traditional and local dishes, taking your taste buds on an exciting journey. Various nightlife options are available, including nightclubs, bars, and jazz clubs. And don’t forget to indulge in the local favourite: traditional rice beer.

Experience The Choirs

Don't miss the chance to experience a church choir performance in Kohima. Northeast India boasts a vibrant musical heritage filled with celebrated bands, talented performers, and time-honoured choirs. In Nagaland, the government and local churches passionately promote and nurture music, cultivating some of the country's most exceptional choral groups. One standout ensemble is the Nagaland Chamber Choir (TNCC), which proudly holds the title of Nagaland's oldest professional choral organisation. In a remarkable achievement, the TNCC clinched two gold medals at the 12th World Choir Games in Gangneung, South Korea, in 2023, making history as the only choir from India to qualify for the prestigious Champions competition.

Go Shopping

Take a stroll around the city's markets to buy souvenirs and gifts that are locally produced. Nagaland has some amazing local textiles and handicrafts. Pick up a Naga shawl, a traditional garment crafted from wool or cotton and has distinctive patterns and colours, usually red, black, and white. The shawl is a symbol of the tribe’s identity, culture, and status, and each tribe has its own design and meaning, making each shawl a unique piece of art. Explore the local markets to discover unique local foods, such as the infamous Naga morich (also known as king morich), available in fresh and dried forms. You can also find small, bitter brinjal (titaguti), bamboo shoots, and clusters of bitter beans called yongchak, among other items. 

What To Eat

Kohima's food culture is a vibrant reflection of its indigenous Naga tribes, offering a unique culinary experience that sets it apart. A standout feature of Naga cuisine is its minimal use of oil, instead relying on traditional methods like fermentation and smoking to enhance flavours and preserve ingredients. Dishes are often infused with rich, smoky, and tangy flavours through these techniques, showcasing the deep-rooted Naga traditions around food. One must-try ingredient is axone, crafted from soya beans that are meticulously boiled, fermented, and then smoked or sun-dried.

Cafes In Kohima

Kohima is home to many cosy cafes where you can relax, read a book, enjoy a cup of excellent coffee, and take in the beautiful views. For example, Foodprints, located near Japfu Christian College, offers outdoor seating perfect for sunny, pleasant weather. Ete Coffee on Billy Graham Road serves some of the best coffee in town. Additionally, D’Cafe, situated in the Jail Colony, provides coffee made from the finest organic roasted beans and freshly baked pastries.

Where To Stay In Kohima

Kohima offers a variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury hotels to charming homestays. For example, Native Stories Homestay Tribal Heritage is comfortably located in the foothills of Mt. Japfu, where the rising sun greets you each morning. This homestay provides traditional, homemade, organic meals. Another option is Niraamaya Retreats-Aradura, situated on Aradura Hill on the outskirts of Kohima. This retreat features twelve well-appointed rooms. You can also stay at The Tourist Village, which consists of huts constructed by different clans from the surrounding villages. Each spacious hut has an attached bathroom, and the young locals who maintain the place also serve delicious Naga cuisine to their guests.

Best Time To Visit Kohima

The ideal time to visit Kohima is from October to May, during the dry winter months. The weather is clear and pleasant at this time, making it perfect for outdoor activities and experiencing the region's cultural richness.

How To Reach Kohima

The nearest airport to Kohima is Dimapur Airport, located approximately 74 km away. It has good connections to major Indian cities such as Delhi and Kolkata. The closest railway station is also in Dimapur, about 74 km from Kohima, with services to Guwahati, Kolkata, New Delhi, Chennai, Jorhat, and Dibrugarh. You can rent vehicles or take advantage of the Nagaland State Road Transport buses, which run between Dimapur and Kohima.