Kohima

Kohima A colourful land of impeccable culture and unprecedented traditions, this lesser known city is certainly an enticing destination to explore. The predominantly tribal city is blessed with high mountains, deep valleys and rich flora and fauna. Being inhabited by as many as 16-odd tribes, it is the land of rich cultural heritage of the Nagas. Kohima is the capital of Nagaland; the city is a beautiful mixture of all the hues of nature. The British developed Kohima as a watch post for the eastern region. The town has been witness to the bloody World War II battles between the Allies and Japan. The entrance gate is adorned with traditional Naga art and buffalo horns which is typical to all Naga villages.

It is one of the most charismatic destinations to see in the state. The blend of the ancient and the modern has painted this town in an interesting colour and Kohima has become an indelible landmark for the state. Kohima's leisurely pace of life attracts travellers who want to get away from the hurly burly of city life, the serene atmosphere makes you unwind and relax. The Kohima Village, locally known as the Barra Basti, showcases the Naga way of life. Kohima is a hilly town makes it a perfect place for adventurous activities like trekking, jungle camping and rock climbing. Read our Kohima travel guide toinstigate yourself with all Things to do and places to visit in Kohia city.

Culture and heritage of different Naga tribes, scenic Naga villages, bizarre food habit and unique culture make Kohima a worth visiting place. Hornbill Festival held every year in the 1st week of December is the prime attraction of Kohima. Read our guide to know more about best attractions of Kohima city. Shop in the famous Naga Bazaar which is known for sale of indigenous handicrafts items, like shawls, vests and other decorative items, flowers, bamboo items and jewelleries.
In Kohima you will find authentic Naga cuisine like Ghalo (pork and bamboo) and bamboo baked with fish, locals are generally non-vegetarian, you will find a variety of non-veg food in Kohima. Try the local rice beer called Zouthou.

Places to visit :

KOHIMA WORLD WAR-II CEMETERY : Overlooking Kohima amidst scenic environs, the Kohima War Cemetery is a memorial in the honour of those officers and soldiers killed during the World War II. Formerly known as Garrison Hill it is designed as a series of terraces with magnificent stone steps, bearing testimony to one of the most stubborn, close and bloody fighting in the whole of the Second World War. On the 18 plots of the cemetery, there are 1421 slabs erected in memory of soldiers who were killed in the battle of Kohima. The cemetery is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. Before leaving Kohima the British erected a moving memorial in memory of their fallen comrades: "When you go home, tell them of us, and say: ‘For your tomorrow, we gave our today."

KOHIMA CATHEDRAL : Located at Aradura Hill, the Cathedral dominates the landscape of Kohima. It has become an important tourist destination and is the largest cathedral in the Asia. As one enters the Cathedral, one can’t help but notice a slab on the right hand side- "when you enter in here, bring before the Lord, all those who gave their life and all those who will give their all for your better and safer Nagaland".

This was put up on the request of the Japanese who contributed towards the building of the church. In the spring of 1944, Japanese, British and Indian forces fought for the Garrison Hill during the Battle of Kohima. Thousands were killed. The Japanese survivors of the battle and bereaved families collected contributions towards the making of the Cathedral so that prayers could be offered in the memory of their loved ones. Spread over an area of 25,000 sq feet, it can accommodate 3000 seated and 20,000 if all areas are occupied. A permanent Olive wood crib from Bethlehem’s Olive wood has also been installed. For those wanting to experience an architectural treat of the modern and the indigenous, the Kohima Cathedral is the place to visit!!!

STATE MUSEUM : Located at Bayavü Hill, about 1½ km from the main town, it houses a rare collection of artifacts of each Naga tribe. The State Museum also has authentic Naga precious stones on display. Here one can see the most valued and expensive necklaces used by the Nagas. They are an assortment of precious stones which include cornelian, tourmaline, coral, core of xancus, ivory and other beads, brass and silver bells. Another interesting display is the Naga Morung/hut models. One can make out that the villages were located on hilltops. Perhaps it was to survey/watch the valley below for approaching friends or foes. The variations in architecture among the different tribes are just amazing. Musical instruments are also displayed. The various instruments give an insight into how music formed an integral part of Naga life. Log drum, Tati, a single stringed instrument, and other instruments made of bamboo and buffalo horns are used during festivals and other social gatherings. For the art lovers the state museum has an art gallery which houses collections of paintings by different local artists. The themes vary from traditional to modern.
The State Emporium displays the finest collection of tribal shawls, handbags, wood carvings, mekhalas, cane and bamboo handicrafts and ready-made garments of traditional weaves, designed to modern taste.

Local Market : A visit to the market is recommended to savour the local flavour. It has stalls piled up with local fruit, vegetables, herbs, chillies (the hottest in the country), edible insects, fish and meat. Women sell local honey and bamboo shoot extract by the roadside