Tourist Places in Kohima – A Detailed Guide for Visitors
Kohima, the capital city of Nagaland, is one of the best destinations in Northeast India. This gem is known for its rich scenic landscapes, amazing nature, rich cultural heritage, and fascinating history.
This city has a lot to offer, including museums, war memorials, trekking trails, natural wonders, traditional villages, and much more. In this article, we’ll give you a detailed guide to visiting Kohima. So pack your bags and let’s get ready!
Overview of Kohima
Kohima is the capital and second largest city of the Indian state of Nagaland, located in Northeast India. The city has a rich history that goes centuries back. At first, it was a village of the Angami Nagas, which are a major Naga ethnic group. Then, it became an urban center during the British Empire’s rule in 1878.
The city witnessed brutal battles in World War II including the Battle of Kohima – which was voted to be “Britain’s Greatest Battle.” It was fought between the British Indian Army and the Japanese forces.
Kohima is one of the most beautiful cities in India. It attracts tourists from all over the world because of its incredible landscape, pleasant climate, jungles, rich history, and rich cultural heritage. You can also see the Himalayan Range from the city.
How to Get to Kohima
Kohima is well-connected to the rest of India since it is the capital city of Nagaland. Here are the main 3 ways you can reach there:
By Air: Although Kohima doesn’t have an airport, you can easily travel to Dimapur Airport. It is a domestic airport only 74 km from Kohima and well-connected to the major Airports in India.
By Road: There are roads connecting all the district headquarters of Nagaland. So, you can take a private taxi or bus to get there. There are also public buses connecting Dimapur and Kohima.
By Train: Kohima doesn’t have a railway station but there is a nearby one in Dimapur. It is well-connected to Jorhat, Chennai, New Delhi, Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Kolkata.
Best Tourist Places in Kohima
Kohima is full of tourist places that attract tourists from all over the world. Let’s explore some of the must-visit options:
1. Kohima War Cemetery
Kohima War Cemetery is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Kohima. It is a memorial site dedicated to the soldiers who died during the World War II Battle of Kohima, which was fought between the British Indian Army and the Japanese forces.
The cemetery is beautifully maintained and set in peaceful surroundings. It has over 1,400 graves of soldiers from the Allied forces, including the United Kingdom, India, Canada, and Australia.
Moreover, it is located at the exact location of the battle, so it gives you a feeling of going back in history.
2. Kohima Museum
The Kohima Museum is a must-visit if you want to explore the rich cultural heritage and history of Nagaland. It displays the history and culture of the 16 tribal groups of the state.
It shows you the traditions of the Naga people and their everyday life. Plus, you get to see their jewelry, weapons, and costumes on life-sized models. For wildlife lovers, there are endemic regional animals and birds.
There is also a section in the museum dedicated to the Battle of Kohima. You will learn about the conflict and the detailed timeline of the battle. Moreover, it displays relics and photographs from the conflict.
3. Dzukou Valley
Dzukou Valley is one of the best Kohima tourist places. In fact, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in India. It is located between the Kohima district of Nagaland and the Senapati district of Manipur.
It is called the “Valley of Flowers” because of all the rare flora and fauna it has. If you visit during the full-bloom season, you’ll see euphorbias, lilies, aconitums, and other flora species filling the entire place. It is truly one of nature’s most beautiful masterpieces.
It also offers some of the most beautiful treks in the world for nature lovers.
4. Khonoma Village
If you want to get familiar with the Naga lifestyle and meet the people of the Angami tribe, then you need to visit the Khonoma Village, around 20 km away from Kohima.
It is famous for being Asia’s first green village because the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary was created there in 1998.
The village is very clean and has a rich history that goes back centuries. There is a fort there that is 600 years old! It is also one of the best places for trekking and birdwatching.
5. Kohima Cathedral Church
Kohima Cathedral Church is one of the largest churches in Asia, and some sources even regard it as the largest one.
The church has an interesting history. After the World War II Battle of Kohima between the British Indian Army and the Japanese forces, the Japanese themselves made a special request to build this church.
The families of soldiers who died and survivors of the battle wanted to build a church to pray for the souls that passed away and keep it in their memory.
6. Touphema Village
If you want to immerse yourself in the culture, then the Touphema Village is a must-visit. It is a recreation of a traditional Angami Naga village made by the Tourism Department of Nagaland and the local community.
The village is full of cabins that look like traditional huts with roofs made of corrugated iron. You will get to experience how it is to live in a Naga tribal house and how they live their daily lives. You will also get to try their special delicacies.
One of the best times to visit is February because they have an annual festival held at the village and it is so fun. Furthermore, some of the best attractions there include olk dances, retelling of folk tales, and more traditional Naga performances.
7. Shilloi Lake
If you’re a nature lover, you will really appreciate the Shilloi Lake in Kohima. It is such a scenic and peaceful place with gorgeous surroundings of hills and pine forests.
The Shilloi Lake is considered sacred by the local people of Latsum village. There is a legend that says the spirit of a holy child is resting at the bottom of the lake. That’s why they do not use the lake for drinking, fishing, or irrigation.
There is also a legend that a girl child came to the people of the village in their dreams and warned them to never dry up the lake. That’s why they never drink from it or attempt to search the bottom in fear of that prophecy.
One of the fun facts about the lake is that it looks like a giant human footprint from above.
8. Naga Heritage Village
Naga Heritage Village, also known as Kisama Heritage Village, is like an open-air museum where you will watch the culture and traditions of the Naga people. It is located on the outskirts of Kohima and it’s definitely worth a visit.
The government built the village to replicate a traditional Naga village and give you a feel of their lives and values.
The village opens during the Hornbill Festival for a week in December. So if you want to visit, make sure to plan your trip around this time.
What to Eat in Kohima?
Kohima offers a variety of mouth-watering dishes that are unique to Naga cuisine. Here are some delicacies you must try:
1. Bamboo Steamed Fish
Bamboo Steamed Fish is an authentic dish unique to the Naga people. The main ingredients are fresh fish, salt, red-dried chilies, bamboo shoot squeeze, and garlic.
What’s special about this dish is the way the fish is cooked. It is steamed inside bamboo tubes which gives a very nice bamboo flavor. You need to try it if you love seafood.
2. Naga Galho
Naga Galho is a rice porridge with a soupy texture. It is cooked with meat but there is a veg version of it as well. It is prepared with fresh green leaves, rice, and vegetables using fermented bamboo or soy.
3. Naga Chili Sauce
Naga chili sauce is famous in Nagaland and is an essential part of their cuisine. It is made from Naga King Chilli or Bhut Jolokia. But beware if you cannot tolerate spicy food because it is very spicy.
4. Akibiye
Akibiye is another popular veg dish in Nagaland. The key ingredients of Akibiye are colocasia roots, mustard leaves, and salt. There are also non-veg versions of this curry that are cooked with chicken or fish.
Where to Eat in Kohimo?
Now that we’ve talked about a few top dishes in Kohimo, let’s discover some of the best restaurants in the city:
1. D Cafe
D Cafe is one of the best-reviewed cafes in Kohimo. The place is very peaceful with a perfect musical ambience. They offer mouth-watering desserts, snacks, sandwiches, and excellent coffee. Some customers even say it’s the best coffee they’ve ever tasted.
2. JAT Restaurant
JAT Restaurant is a great option if you want to try some authentic North Indian food. The place is clean and the service is fast. Moreover, they provide a homely atmosphere to make you feel comfortable. They offer veg options as well.
3. Amaris
Amaris restaurant is surprisingly cheap for the amazing food it offers. The place looks premium and very clean and offers a warm, cozy ambiance. Moreover, the staff are kind and friendly. The place is highly recommended if you are looking for somewhere to relax and enjoy a great meal.
4. Mhachaki
Mhachaki is easily one of the best restaurants in Kohima. It offers authentic Indian food that won’t disappoint. The restaurant’s location is secluded but not far away from the main town, however, it has such a beautiful scenic view.
Best Hotels in Kohima
Kohima has a wide range of hotel options if you want to have a great, comfortable stay. Here are some of our favorites:
1. Niraamaya Retreats Aradura Kohima
This is one of the best overall hotels in Kohima. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, great food, and a wonderful view of the surroundings. Excellent service is the highlight for most guests based on the many positive reviews.
The rooms are very nice and clean and they have all of the modern amenities you would need. Moreover, the food receives positive reviews for being tasty and available in a wide variety.
2. Dovipie Inn
Dovipie Inn is a hostel located in Khonoma Village in Kohima. It is the perfect option if you want to immerse yourself in the local culture. Amenities include free parking, an on-site restaurant, and airport transportation. Plus, most of Kohima’s attractions are only a few miles away.
The staff is very friendly and can offer a tour around the village. Also, the rooms are clean and comfortable and the food is great.
3. La Colline Resort
The La Colline Resort is a highly-rated hotel located in Kohima. The reviews praise the hotel’s beautiful mountain views, incredible scenery, and friendly staff. The rooms are spacious, clean, and comfortable.
The on-site restaurant offers local dishes as well as international ones. Overall, the hotel offers a relaxing atmosphere and a comfortable stay away from the city bustle.
Kohima Safety Tips
Kohima is considered a safe city to travel to regardless of what we hear of Northeast India. Nagaland in general is as safe as any other part of India if you take the basic safety precautions. Here are some of the safety tips you might want to consider:
- Travel with a partner if possible
- Avoid dark and isolated areas
- Stay aware of your surroundings
- Take care of your personal belongings
- Respect the culture and the locals
- Be prepared for any emergency because the city is remote
- Make sure your phone is fully charged before going out
Final Thoughts
Kohima is a gem in Northeast India that offers something to everyone. Whether you are a history buff, a nature lover, a culture enthusiast, or simply someone who is looking for an offbeat destination to wind down, you’re going to love this city. The city is generally safe for tourists, but it is important to take some basic safety precautions. The locals are very kind and hospitable and will welcome you with generosity.
