Kohima, the charming capital of Nagaland, is not only known for its vibrant culture and historical significance but also for its breathtaking landscapes and warm hospitality. Nestled amidst the green hills of Northeast India, Kohima is an unmissable destination for travellers who wish to experience a blend of natural beauty, tribal traditions, and living history. From the world-renowned Hornbill Festival to serene valleys, historical landmarks, and traditional villages, Kohima offers a unique travel experience unlike any other. In this guide, we explore the top attractions in Kohima that will make your journey unforgettable.
Tourist attractions in Kohima
As mentioned in my last post, we visited the glorious Hornbill Festival the previous day and decided to explore Kohima the next day. The World War II cemetery was situated near our hotel. We took a five-minute walk to the cemetery and paid a visit. Then we decided to explore the alleys of Kohima city. We saw rows and rows of houses, some atop mountains and some on the plains. The neat and clean, well-maintained houses had flowers in the verandas. A feeling of warmth and contentment is reflected in each house.
1. Kohima Cathedral – A Spiritual Landmark
Our next stop was Kohima Cathedral. When we first saw the cathedral, the first word that came to my mind was “Wow, Magnificat ! “. It has wonderful architecture, which blends into the hill on which it is situated. It was a huge church with a 16-foot-high carved wood crucifix, which is one of the largest crosses in Asia. We walk around the church and enjoy the beautiful pictures and statues inside the church while admiring the beautiful flowers. It was built with funds from Japan as a tribute to the soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. The cathedral stands as a symbol of peace and reconciliation.
2. Nagaland State Museum
After visiting Kohima Cathedral, we went to visit the Nagaland State Museum. It preserves and displays the rare artefacts, costumes, weapons, utensils, and musical instruments of different cultural groups of Nagaland. Different wooden structures, statues, jewellery and images were also displayed there. It is one of the must-visited attractions in Kohima city.
3. Kohima War Cemetery
The Kohima War Cemetery is one of the most significant historical landmarks in the city. Maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it honours the soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Battle of Kohima in World War II. Set against a serene backdrop of manicured gardens, the cemetery has over 1,420 graves with moving epitaphs. The most famous inscription reads: “When you go home, tell them of us and say, For your tomorrow, we gave our today.”
A visit to the cemetery is not just about history—it is about understanding the resilience of the people and the pivotal role Kohima played in shaping modern Asia.
4. Naga Bazar market
Next, we went to the Naga Bazar market. The market sprawled in its own glory of vivid smells, sounds and colours. The market had all sorts of housewares, kitchenwares, trendy apparel, accessories and items for kids too. It was a shopaholic’s paradise, and at the same time, it provided unique edibles like frogs, snails, different fish etc.
The time when we travelled was the end of November, and the shops were filled with Christmas decor items. The market was already celebrating the fervour of the arrival of Christmas, and the shops were decorated and colourful lights were seen everywhere.
Afterwards, we visited the memorial of A.Z. Phizo. It is constructed in the memory of Angami Zapu Phizo, who is regarded as the “Father of the Nagas”.
If you are interested in history, you can also see the Me 3 Tank during World War II, located at Officers’ Hill, near the old DC Bungalow. Apart from these, you can explore some other best tourist places located a few kilometres away from the city.
5. Kisama Heritage Village
The Kisama Heritage Village is not only the venue for the Hornbill Festival but also a cultural hub that reflects the rich traditions of the Nagas. The village is designed to represent traditional tribal architecture, with morungs, traditional huts. It is one of the top attractions near Kohima for anyone who wants a deeper connection with tribal heritage. Check our guide on Hornbill Festival to know more about what to do and see at the festival.
6. Dzukou Valley – The Valley of Flowers of the Northeast
Located about 25 km from Kohima, the Dzukou Valley is one of the most enchanting natural wonders of Nagaland. Famous as the “Valley of Flowers”, it bursts into a sea of colours during the summer, with exotic lilies and wildflowers carpeting the valley.
Trekking to Dzukou Valley is a dream for hikers, offering breathtaking views of rolling meadows, crystal-clear streams, and untouched landscapes. The valley is also a popular camping spot for those who wish to spend the night under a blanket of stars.
7. Khonoma Village – Asia’s First Green Village
Located just 20 km from Kohima, Khonoma Village is known for its eco-friendly practices and conservation initiatives. It is often referred to as Asia’s first green village, where the Angami tribes have preserved their forests and natural resources through sustainable living.
Visitors can explore traditional Naga homes, stay in a traditional homestay, learn about agricultural practices, see the village forts, meet the villagers, see the village morung and explore the stunning village on foot. For those who want to witness how tradition and modern conservation efforts coexist, Khonoma is a must-visit destination.
8. Touphema Tourist Village
The Touphema Tourist Village, developed in collaboration with the local community, is an excellent place to experience authentic Naga hospitality. Tourists can stay in traditional huts, savour local cuisine, and participate in cultural programs.
This immersive experience allows travellers to connect deeply with the local culture and lifestyle, making it one of the best offbeat places near Kohima.
Images of Kohima
How to reach Kohima
Reach Kohima from Guwahati
You can reach Kohima from Guwahati either by road or train. The most convenient option is to take a train from Guwahati to Dimapur, which is the nearest major railway station to Kohima. From Dimapur, you can hire a private taxi or opt for a shared cab to reach Kohima. Taxis are readily available outside the station, making the journey hassle-free.
The drive from Dimapur to Kohima is an experience in itself. As we travelled along the steep, winding mountain roads of Nagaland, every bend revealed breathtaking landscapes. Rolling meadows, green hillocks, and dense forests stretched as far as the eye could see—each spot looked like a picture-perfect picnic location. The mesmerising views left a lasting impression on our hearts, and we soon realised that nature in its purest grandeur awaited us in Kohima.
Travel Tips for Visiting Kohima
- The best time to visit Kohima is between October and May, with December being the most vibrant due to the Hornbill Festival.
- Carry warm clothes, as the weather gets cold in the evenings.
- Book accommodations early if you plan to visit during the Hornbill Festival.
- Respect local customs and traditions when visiting villages and interacting with locals.
Kohima is more than just a capital city—it is a place where history, culture, and nature come together to create an unforgettable travel experience. From the serenity of the Kohima War Cemetery to the lively energy of the Hornbill Festival, the lush beauty of Dzukou Valley, and the sustainable charm of Khonoma Village, Kohima offers something for every traveller. If you are planning to visit Nagalad along with Kohima, check our top Nagaland tour packages.
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