Kohima is the capital city of India’s north eastern state of Nagaland. Originally known as Kewhira, it was the site of one of the bloodiest battles of World War II. The battle is often referred to as the ‘Stalingrad of the East’.

The State is replete with festivities throughout the year as all the 16 recognized tribes here celebrate their own festivals with a pageantry of color, music and dance. Interestingly all festivals revolve around agriculture, the mainstay of economy in the region. Nagaland fondly called the ‘Land of Festivals’.

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Northeast has always fascinated me from the time I first visited Guwahati, the gateway to this beautiful region. And every time I have come back here I have gone back with great memories of wonderful people-well educated, simple and focused, rich & diverse cultures and history, crafts, festivals, food, sports, music & nostalgia of beautiful destinations that I have traveled to on business or on pleasure. And Nagaland has been no different.

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This was my second trip to Dimapur

The first trip of mine here was for 2 days and strictly for business, except a quick visit to the Kachari ruins famous for its monoliths. It’s believed that the scattered stones and bricks here are the remains of temples and embankments. Dimapur is the main gateway and commercial center of Nagaland located on the banks of the Dhansiri River and the only plains tract of hilly Nagaland. It also has the only railway station and airport in the state for connectivity and economic activity.

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But this trip was different. A morning flight from Calcutta, an evening meeting with distributors, early dinner and next morning after breakfast I was off for a 3 day holiday. From hot and humid Dimapur in the month of May, to the cool hills of Kohima.

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Kohima is 70 kms from Dimapur and it took us around three hours to reach. I had booked this resort based on strong recommendations of a friend and was eager to experience the mesmerizing beauty of verdant pine forests and the mountains of Kohima from Niraamaya Retreats, a Spa Resort. Once there I just loved the place for the views it offered. Settled down in my lovely room and was off soon to experience the city after a quick lunch.

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The Churches of Kohima

The Cathedral of Kohima (Mary Help of Christians Church) is the church of the bishop of the diocese of Kohima and hence the main church of this diocese of Nagaland. The church is noted for its architecture which incorporates many elements of traditional Naga houses, including its facade which resembles that of a Naga house. The architecture of the cathedral blends into the hill on which it is situated. The 16 feet high carved wood crucifix is one of Asia’s largest crosses.

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Kohima Ao Baptist Church is a Protestant church located in Midland Ward, Kohima. Affiliated with the Ao Baptist Arogo Mungdang, this was one of the first Ao churches established outside the Ao region. Ao Nagas are a major ethnic group native to Mokokchung district of Nagaland. It serves as the main church building of the Ao Nagas residing in Kohima.

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Kohima Lotha Baptist Church is also a Protestant church located in the locality of Chandmari, Kohima. The church building was opened in 2017 although the Baptist congregation had been formed since 1956. It is one of the biggest Lotha Baptist churches in Nagaland and also the main church building of the Lotha Nagas in Kohima city.

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Historical Insights into Nagaland

Nagaland, a land engulfed in mystery, inhabited by vibrant people zealously guarding their culture – dancers, warriors, head-hunters; mountains, valleys, forests – all these form the portrait of Nagaland. The state is truly an amalgamation of various tribes. The Kohima Museum portrays the traditions and culture of the many tribes of the state. The museum holds many unique artifacts related to 16 tribes of the region which include clan motifs, colorful traditional dresses, dialect, practices and traditions.

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Next we move to another landmark of the city. Kohima War Cemetery, which is a memorial dedicated to soldiers of the 2nd British Division of the Allied Forces who died in the Second World War at Kohima.

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It was approaching evening and on my cab driver’s recommendation we were heading to P.R.Hill Junction, which is a great destination if you wish to get the local favor of the city especially in the evening hours. We had some nice refreshing tea and then went on a longish drive up the hills to get an unforgettable view of Kohima at night.

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Back to the hotel it was time to relax in the balcony, catching up with family at home, a few drinks and a little late dinner at the hotel restaurant before retiring for the night, eager for the next morning.

Destinations in and around Kohima

Kohima Zoological Park

Our first destination for the day was a quick trip to one of the most well-maintained zoos in the country. Built on a hill, the natural landscape offers a comforting habitat to the animals and birds. The biggest attraction in the zoo is the rare Tragopan bird, which is the state bird of Nagaland and a highly endangered species. You can also catch a glimpse of Mithun, a species of the wild buffalo which is also the state animal, the Golden langur and Asiatic black bear in this zoo apart from many other wild animals.

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Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak

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Located around 25 km south of Kohima, ‘Dzukou valley and Japfu Peak’ offer one of the most breathtaking landscapes of the continent. Nagaland is called the ‘Switzerland of the East’ and ‘Dzukou valley and Japfu Peak’ provide ample proof to that moniker. A trek here is an absolute must for all trekking enthusiasts.

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The Japfu Peak standing tall at 3048 meters is the second highest peak in Nagaland and provides the perfect vantage point for admiring the heavenly beauty of the Dzukou Valley which is also known as the “Valley of Flowers of the East” and is quite a sight to behold, when in full bloom. The highest point in the Dzukou valley is at 2600 meters and provides a beautiful panoramic view of the enchanting valley in the front which is believed to be the base of the crater of an old volcano.

Touphema Tourist Village

Our next destination is the ‘Touphema Tourist Village’ located 20 kms from Kohima. It is one of the ancient heritage villages of Nagaland and is a wonderful recreation of a traditional Angami Naga village. It is setup with cabins and rooms that have been built to look like traditional huts & cottages.

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As a traveler you have the option to stay here to get an insight into the Naga culture, governance and how Naga tribes have existed all through the centuries and also taste some popular Naga delicacies like Ghalo and Bamboo Baked Fish along with Rice Beer at the village.

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Khonoma Village – The Green Village

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A town belonging to the ‘Angami Naga’ ethnic group of Nagaland, ‘Khonoma Village’ is a one-of-its-kind project in the country located about 20 km from Kohima. It’s a Green Village, where all forms of hunting have been abolished for a more sustainable ecosystem. Nestled at the base of the mountains of Nagaland, you would pass through misty valleys, gently sloping hillocks and beautiful terraced farms as you reach here.

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The day was a little hectic but it was thoroughly enjoyable as I was back to the hotel with some cherished moments. And when you are in a Spa hotel, how can one miss out on the pleasures of some relaxed moments. I didn’t either.

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The next day’s plan was for more relaxed moments, being in such a lovely resort with nature all around. So I set out very early in the morning with a nice packed breakfast. Come along for this yet another lovely destination.

Nagaland Wildlife Sanctuaries

For the nature and wildlife enthusiast, Nagaland has 4 National Parks. They are the Rangapahar Wildlife Sanctuary, Fakim Wildlife Sanctuary, Pilie Badze Wildlife Sanctuary & Ntangki Wildlife Sanctuary. The closest to Kohima is where we are heading today. The Ntangki Wildlife Sanctuary located 57 kms away and is home to species like Hoolock Gibbon, Palm Civets, Sloth Bear, Wild Dogs, Golden Langur, Tiger, Python, Flying Squirrel, and Monitor Lizard. It is also an amazing place to go for bird watching. It’s a good one day trip as there is lots to explore. I did a half day so that I could be back to my resort by afternoon. Just a glimpse here for you.

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The Lakes & Rivers

Shilloi Lake

A beautiful foot shaped lake in the heart of the Patkai range of Nagaland, Shilloi Lake is a very picturesque destination with verdant valley surrounding it from all sides. The lake is considered very important by the folks of Latsum village as it is believed that the spirit of a holy child rests in the bottom of the lake. Which is why no one fishes or uses the lake water for drinking and irrigation.

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Doyang River

Doyang River is one of the largest rivers of Nagaland and is around 100 kms from Kohima. This long river is also called as Dzu or Dzulu by locals in Wokha District. It’s a lovely destination to be in with its surrounding forests and water sports options. You can also do river fishing and have a good time by the banks of the river picnicking with your family.

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Nagaland – The Land of Festivals

Nagaland is beautiful habitat for about 16 tribes that are equally rich in culture and heritage. And you can hence understand why it’s called the ‘Land of Festivals’ with each tribe celebrating their own with celebrations round the year. Witnessing a festival in Nagaland is one of the best ways to understand the difference between these tribes and also the reason of their attachment to their cult and customs. Since agriculture is an important part of Nagaland, all festivals revolve around pre-harvest, harvest, post-harvest and sowing periods.

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The most popular festival of Nagaland is Hornbill Festival, which is one such festival where almost every tribe of the state takes part. The Hornbill Festival, a yearly feature taking place on the first week of December is a modern day cultural extravaganza of all Naga tribes. The event has made its mark internationally. The festival is named after the bird Hornbill which is the most revered and admired bird for the Nagas. The festival is a tribute to this bird, known for its qualities of grandeur and alertness.

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The Festival was conceptualized to showcase Naga culture & traditions in the spirit of unity in diversity.  This Festival is held at the Heritage village of Kisama, about 12 km from Kohima. A visitor gets the opportunity to catch a ring side view of all the Naga tribes, their culture and distinctiveness at one place.  The Heritage complex consists of a cluster of seventeen ingenuously designed houses called Morung meaning Youth Dormitory, and each representing a different tribe.

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Naga Cuisine

Nagaland has many tribes and sub-tribes, the cuisine of these tribes are distinct and yet some overlap each other. The Naga Cuisine uses mostly meat, fishes, fermented bamboo shoots, fermented soya bean, vegetables, chillies and lots of herbs in their cooking. Most of the dishes are zero oil and thus it is also considered as one of the healthiest food. The Naga meal mainly consist of rice which is the staple diet.

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Fish with fermented bamboo shoot is a common Naga speciality dish and the most popular dish in Naga Cuisine. It is a traditional and authentic naga fish recipe.

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Crafts & Creations

Nagaland shawls are very famous among tourists. Different tribes weave their own designs. Cane and bamboo work, wood carving, blacksmithy and pottery are the most popular handicrafts work of the Nagas. The people of Nagaland are great lover of Music. The traditional musical instrument holds great importance in the Naga society and forms an integral part of every festival and ritual of the state. Since ancient time Nagas have invented their own unique musical instruments using bamboo.

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Plan your travel

The best months to visit Nagaland are from October to May. To help you plan your travel and to get complete information on different festivals, the months they are celebrated and the locations, you can connect here with Nagaland Tourism.

Travel requirements

Indian Tourists are required to obtain an Inner Line Permit (ILP) in advance. You can click here for the details. Foreign tourists can enter Nagaland freely (without any permits) – however, they need to register with the Foreigner’s Registration Officer (FRO) of the district they visit or the nearest Police Station within 24 hours of their arrival.

Nagaland, the vibrant Northeast state which celebrates happiness round the year. The land of colorful festivals. And Kohima, its pretty capital where you can spend days just watching the mountains, the pine trees and spending some relaxed ‘We’ or ‘Me’ moments.

If you loved visiting Nagaland, PIN it to plan your travel & for your friends!

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