YOUR ULTIMATE TRAVEL GUIDE TO KOHIMA

Essential Information

• Country, State: India, Nagaland
• Timezone: GMT +5:30 (IST; no daylight saving)
• Languages Spoken: English, Angami, Hindi, Ao
• Currency: Indian Rupee (INR) — cards not accepted everywhere; carry cash

Weather and Climate

• March – May (Spring): Pleasant, 15°C to 25°C; ideal for outdoor activities
• June – September (Monsoon): Heavy rain, 20°C to 30°C; lush but travel can be delayed
• October – February (Winter): Cool to cold, 5°C to 15°C; clear skies — pack warm layers

Discover Kohima: A City Overview

Kohima, Nagaland’s hilly capital at about 1,444 meters, pairs sweeping mountain-valley views with living Naga heritage. Known for the pivotal 1944 Battle of Kohima in World War II, the city preserves memory at its serene War Cemetery while everyday life hums through markets, churches, and villages where tradition and modernity meet. Warm hospitality, forested ridges, and a calm, green ambiance make Kohima as contemplative as it is culturally vibrant — from heritage festivals to treks that connect city and nature.

Best Time to Visit Kohima for Optimal Weather

• October – March (Autumn/Winter):
  • Pros: Clear skies and pleasant days for sightseeing and treks; Hornbill Festival in December
  • Cons: Cold mornings and nights — bring warm clothing
• April – May (Spring):
  • Pros: Blooming hills and comfortable temperatures for nature walks
  • Cons: Occasional showers — keep an umbrella handy
• June – September (Monsoon):
  • Pros: Verdant landscapes, full-flowing waterfalls, great photography
  • Cons: Heavy rain can cause landslides and travel disruptions

How to Get to Kohima & Visa Requirements

• Flights: Nearest airport: Dimapur (DMU) ~74km; regular connections from major Indian cities; onward by taxi/shared cab
• Trains: Nearest railhead: Dimapur with links to key hubs
• Road: Well-connected from Guwahati and other Northeast cities by NH corridors
• Visa & Permits: Foreign nationals require an Indian visa. PAP for Nagaland is relaxed for most nationalities except citizens of Pakistan, China, and Afghanistan (who still require PAP). Indian nationals do not need permits. Always check current rules before travel
• Airport Transfers: Taxis/shared cabs available at Dimapur Airport/Station — negotiate fares in advance

Fun/Historical Facts

The 1944 Battle of Kohima — the “Stalingrad of the East” — turned the tide against Japan’s advance; the DC’s bungalow tennis court, once a fierce combat zone, is now a solemn centerpiece of the War Cemetery.
Famous People from Kohima:

• T. N. Angami: first Chief Minister of Nagaland
• Neiphiu Rio: multiple-term Chief Minister of Nagaland

Top Things to See and Do: Kohima Attractions

Top 10 Attractions in Kohima

1. Kohima War Cemetery: Immaculate memorial honoring WWII soldiers; tranquil lawns and epitaphs
   • Address: Kohima, Nagaland 797001
2. State Museum: Naga tribal galleries, textiles, weaponry, and ethnographic displays
   • Address: Bayavu Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
3. Catholic Cathedral (Mary Help of Christians): Striking hilltop church with Naga design elements
   • Address: Aradura Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
4. Japfu Peak: Nagaland’s second-highest summit; rewarding trek and panoramas
   • Address: Near Kigwema Village, Kohima District
5. Dzükou Valley: Famous for seasonal blooms, rolling meadows, and serene trails
   • Address: On the Nagaland–Manipur border; approached from Kohima
6. Kisama Heritage Village: Hornbill Festival venue; year-round insights into Naga morungs and crafts
   • Address: Kisama, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
7. Naga Heritage Complex: Traditional architecture and tribal exhibits adjacent to Kisama
   • Address: Near Kisama Heritage Village, Kohima, Nagaland
8. Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary: Forest reserve with hoolock gibbons, sloth bears, and diverse birdlife
   • Address: Peren District, near Kohima, Nagaland
9. Kohima Village (Bara Basti): One of the largest Angami settlements; gateways to traditional life
   • Address: Kohima, Nagaland
10. Deputy Commissioner’s Bungalow Site: Historic ground from the 1944 battle (within the cemetery area)
    • Address: Kohima, Nagaland

Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path in Kohima

• Puliebadze Wildlife Sanctuary: Quiet sanctuary above Jotsoma with forest trails and vistas
  • Address: Jotsoma, near Kohima, Nagaland
• Tseminyu: Scenic Angami-Rengma cultural pocket with rural rhythms
  • Address: Tseminyu, Kohima District, Nagaland
• Khonoma Green Village: Asia’s first green village; community-led conservation and heritage walks
  • Address: Khonoma, Nagaland

Local Festivals and Events in Kohima

• Hornbill Festival (Dec 1–10): Grand showcase of Naga dances, music, crafts, and cuisine
• Sekrenyi (February): Major Angami festival of purification, rituals, and games
• Moatsu Mong (May): Ao Naga post-sowing festivities with song, dance, and feasts

Day Trips from Kohima: Explore Beyond the City

• Dimapur (approx. 2–3 hours): Markets, megaliths, and gateway to the state
• Khonoma (approx. 1 hour): Community conservation, terraces, and village trails
• Jotsoma (approx. 30 minutes): Hill views and access to Puliebadze sanctuary
• Medziphema (approx. 2 hours): Agricultural landscapes and quiet countryside

Photography Hotspots: Insta-Worthy Locations in Kohima

• Dzükou Valley: Flowering meadows and layered ridgelines
• Kohima War Cemetery: Symmetry, inscriptions, and serene lawns
• Catholic Cathedral: Unique architecture against hill skies
• Kisama Heritage Village: Tribal regalia and festival color (Dec)
• Japfu Peak: Dawn panoramas and cloudscapes

Planning Your Stay in Kohima

Recommended Length of Stay

• 3–4 days are ideal for city sights, nearby villages, and a valley or peak excursion.

Top Places to Stay in Kohima

Budget-Friendly Hotels

• Hotel Japfu
  • Address: Circular Rd, Near Bank of Baroda, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
• D’Villa Inn
  • Address: New Minister Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
• Razhu Pru
  • Address: P.R. Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
• Hotel Pine Wood
  • Address: P.R. Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797001

Mid-Range Hotels

• Hotel Vivor
  • Address: P.R. Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
• The Heritage
  • Address: Old Minister Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
• Hotel Ariel
  • Address: Near Ao Church, Midland, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
• Alder Inn
  • Address: Kenuozou Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797001

Luxury Hotels

• Niraamaya Retreats Aradura Kohima
  • Address: Aradura Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797001

Getting Around Kohima: Transportation Options

• Taxis: Readily available; agree on fares beforehand
• Shared Cabs: Cost-effective point-to-point travel across town
• Walking: Hilly terrain; wear sturdy shoes and plan for uphill stretches

Preparing for Your Trip to Kohima: Practical Information

What to Pack for Your Kohima Adventure

• Warm layers (Oct–Feb), light jacket even in spring evenings
• Rain gear (Jun–Sep): waterproof jacket, umbrella, dry bags
• Comfortable walking/trekking shoes with good grip
• Basic medications, first-aid kit, personal prescriptions
• Insect repellent, especially in monsoon
• Modest clothing for cultural sensitivity

Useful Apps for Travel in Kohima

• Google Maps: Navigation and road status checks
• Translate Apps: Quick phrases for Hindi and local languages
• Food/Delivery Apps: Availability varies; check locally upon arrival

Local Customs, Safety Tips, and Cultural Etiquette

• Do: Greet politely, ask consent before photos, remove shoes in homes/holy places, dress modestly
• Don’t: Display affection publicly, litter, or speak disrespectfully about local traditions
• Safety: Keep valuables secure, be alert in crowds, avoid isolated areas after dark, choose reputable eateries/drinking water

Food, Fun, and Finds: Experiencing Kohima

Top Restaurants in Kohima

• The Crescent Restaurant: Indian, Chinese, Continental — broad menu
  • Address: P.R. Hill, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
• Hotel Japfu Restaurant: Indian plates and local Naga specialties
  • Address: Circular Rd, Near Bank of Baroda, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
• D Cafe: Casual coffee, snacks, and meet-ups
  • Address: PWD, Kohima, Nagaland 797001

Must-Try Dishes

• Bamboo Shoot Curry: Fermented bamboo shoots with meat
• Smoked Pork with Akhuni: Signature pork with fermented soybean
• Galho: Naga-style rice-and-lentil comfort dish
• Zutho: Traditional rice beer (where locally available)
• Anishi: Fermented yam leaves used as a distinct flavoring

Nightlife and Entertainment in Kohima

• The Basement: Social hangout with music and drinks
  • Address: Kohima, Nagaland 797001
• De Oriental Grand: Upscale lounge/bar setting
  • Address: NH-39, Kohima, Nagaland 797001

Souvenirs and Markets: What to Buy in Kohima

• Naga Shawls: Handwoven tribal designs — iconic keepsakes
• Handicrafts: Bamboo/cane work, beadwork, wood carving, pottery
• Traditional Replicas: Decorative spears and daos (check airline rules)
• Local Ingredients: Naga chillies, dried bamboo shoots, herbs
• Market: Kohima Supermarket for a range of local products