capital of Nagaland, arguably the friendliest state in North East India, is well recognised for its pristine beauty, brilliant hills and valleys, several tribes that still follow their traditional cultures, and of course, a wide variety of non-vegetarian food.
But the discerning traveller should include Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, on their must-see list. The name Kewhima, which meant “the land where the flower Kewhi blooms,” was used previously. In the 19th century, the British anglicised it to Kohima, and now it is a picture-perfect hill station with serpentine roads cutting through a number of peaks and hilltops. The closest airport is located 74 kilometres distant in Dimapur. It’s important to keep in mind that the traffic there may be pretty chaotic, so plan on being stuck occasionally. Additionally, Sunday is a true holiday in this country, with the exception of hotels and restaurants.
The town can only be reached by automobile or motorcycle, and public transportation is almost unheard of there. What not to miss while in Kohima is listed below:
A beautifully kept cemetery may be found in the centre of Kohima. Nearly 1,500 Indian, British, and Commonwealth soldiers who lost their lives in the three-month bloody battle of Kohima during World War II are buried here. When you return home, tell them about us and remind them that we offered our today for your future on a memorial to the 2nd Division that is located close to the entrance. The cemetery is situated at the important intersection of the two roads leading, respectively, to Dimapur and Imphal.
A journey down the beautiful Dzukou Valley, which is located 15 km south of Kohima, is both breathtaking and difficult. It takes five hours to ascend a hill from the base camp, which is on Mount Issi. This area is abundant with lovely lilies and rhododendron blooms, as well as a clear stream that frequently freezes over in the winter. Try the 3,940-meter Japfu Peak if you’re feeling even more daring. A trip through the Dzuleke Forest is also a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. Don’t forget to travel here with a knowledgeable guide.
Kohima State Museum capital of Nagaland
The Nagaland culture and history are brought together in one location by the Kohima State Museum. Tribal artefacts, jewellery, tiny representations of various homes and traditional huts around Nagaland, dioramas depicting women and men from several Naga tribes, tools, and weapons are among the main displays at this location. A collection of human skulls from the time of headhunting is also on exhibit there.
The largest cathedral in the Northeast is allegedly housed in this physically remarkable structure. There is seating for all 1,500 parishioners inside the colossal hall. You will experience calm throughout your entire being if you attend this church for mass.
Fair of the Hornbill
The Hornbill Festival, which runs the first week of December and showcases the tribal customs of the area before morphing into a full-fledged musical festival, is the ideal time to visit Kohima.
Shopping
You can find one-of-a-kind original items that are sourced directly from tribes at the Government Handicrafts Shop or the Handloom Center, where you can purchase lovely traditional tribal jewellery. You can also get some lovely locally made items and shawls from the Naga people by taking a trip around the city’s supermarkets. The meat and vegetables offered in Central Market are unique and are a refuge for kitchen essentials.
