Kohima, India Travel Guide

Discover Kohima, the heart of Nagaland, where natural beauty and rich tribal heritage come together to offer an unforgettable experience.

Nestled in the northeastern state of Nagaland, Kohima is a city that effortlessly blends natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. As the capital city of Nagaland, Kohima stands as a vibrant testament to the traditions and way of life of the Naga people. The city is enveloped in lush green hills and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes, making it a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. One of the most notable attractions in Kohima is the War Cemetery, a serene and beautifully maintained memorial dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. Another must-visit is the Kohima Cathedral, known for its unique architectural style and tranquil atmosphere. For a deeper dive into the local culture, the State Museum showcases an extensive collection of tribal artifacts, providing visitors with insights into the rich history and customs of the Naga tribes. Kohima is also the gateway to the famous Dzükou Valley, often referred to as the 'Valley of Flowers.' This stunning valley is a trekker’s paradise, offering mesmerizing views of rolling hills adorned with seasonal flowers. The Hornbill Festival, held every December, is yet another highlight, featuring traditional music, dance, and crafts, celebrating the diverse cultures of Nagaland. Whether you are an adventurer, a history enthusiast, or a culture aficionado, Kohima promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kohima.

Visit in December to experience the Hornbill Festival and witness traditional Naga culture in full bloom.
Pack comfortable trekking shoes if you plan to explore the Dzükou Valley.
Hire a local guide for a more informative and immersive experience of the city and its surroundings.
Sample local Naga cuisine, especially dishes made with smoked pork and bamboo shoots.
Respect local customs and traditions; always ask for permission before taking photos of people.

Explore Kohima: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Kohima

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Razhü Point

Explore Razhü Point in Kohima, a historical landmark offering breathtaking views and rich cultural heritage that resonates with every traveler.

3.8

Kisama Heritage Village

Experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Naga tribes at Kisama Heritage Village, a captivating destination in Kohima, Nagaland.

4.5

Nagaland State Museum

Immerse yourself in the vibrant traditions and rich history of Nagaland at the captivating Nagaland State Museum.

3.9

Sakhrie Park

Explore the natural beauty of Sakhrie Park in Kohima, Nagaland, a perfect retreat for relaxation, family picnics, and scenic views.

3.8

Best landmarks in Kohima

Top-rated picks

Best Landmarks

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Razhü Point

Experience the breathtaking views and historical significance of Razhü Point in Kohima, a must-visit landmark in Nagaland's rich cultural landscape.

3.8

Kisama Heritage Village

Discover the vibrant culture of Nagaland at Kisama Heritage Village, where tradition meets breathtaking landscapes and enriching experiences.

4.5

CommonWealth World War II Cemetry

Explore the poignant Commonwealth World War II Cemetery in Kohima, a serene tribute to the soldiers who fought bravely in the Battle of Kohima.

4.3

Nagaland State Museum

Explore the vibrant heritage of the Naga tribes at Nagaland State Museum, a cultural gem in Kohima showcasing rich history and traditional crafts.

3.9

Best restaurants in Kohima

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Aurora restaurant&lodging

Discover the perfect blend of Indian and Chinese cuisines at Aurora Restaurant & Lodging in Kohima - where comfort meets flavor.

3.9

Yaotsu's Pure Veg and Non-Veg Restaurant

Experience the rich flavors of Nagaland at Yaotsu's Pure Veg and Non-Veg Restaurant - where vegetarian meets non-vegetarian delight!

3.7

Fifa Restaurant 2.0

Discover delicious local and international cuisine at Fifa Restaurant 2.0 in Kohima—where every meal is paired with breathtaking views.

4.1

JAT Restaurant

Experience authentic Indian breakfast and delightful meals at JAT Restaurant in Kohima's Jail Colony.

3.7

Best bars in Kohima

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Ooopar

Discover Ooopar in Kohima: A fusion of global flavors, signature cocktails, and exquisite desserts await you.

4.5

Vivid Lounge

Experience the best of local cuisine and cozy lodging at Vivid Lounge, nestled in the scenic hills of Kohima, Nagaland.

3.3

8N8 Cafe

Discover the cozy charm of 8N8 Cafe in Kohima, where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere for travelers.

3.7

Oakland Boutique

Discover the perfect blend of comfort and local culture at Oakland Boutique, a charming bed and breakfast in Kohima, Nagaland.

4.8

Best nightclubs in Kohima

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Ooopar

Discover Ooopar in Kohima – a culinary haven offering a diverse menu from pizzas to Mediterranean delights in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.5

Oakland Boutique

Discover comfort and local flavor at Oakland Boutique, a charming bed and breakfast with a diner and karaoke bar in Kohima, Nagaland.

4.8

Unyieman Bar

Experience the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Unyieman Bar in Kohima, the perfect spot for your night out in Nagaland.

4.3

FC Bayern club House

Discover the FC Bayern Club House in Kohima, where sports enthusiasm meets exquisite culinary delights in a vibrant atmosphere.

3.7

Best shops in Kohima

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Gravity

Discover the heart of Kohima at Gravity, a vibrant shopping mall offering diverse shops, local cuisine, and a lively atmosphere.

3.5

Mato Complex

Discover the Mato Complex in Kohima: A lively shopping destination showcasing local crafts, sports gear, and the vibrant culture of Nagaland.

3.5

Fancy Market

Discover unique treasures and local flavors at Kohima's Fancy Market, a vibrant hub of shopping and culture in Nagaland.

3.5

Adidas

Explore the Adidas store in Kohima for the latest in sportswear, combining style and performance for all your athletic needs.

3.3

Explore Kohima on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kohima, mapped for you.

Kohima Essentials

Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, is accessible by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Dimapur Airport, approximately 70 kilometers away. From Dimapur, you can take a taxi or a government-run bus to Kohima, which typically takes around 2-3 hours. The nearest railway station is also in Dimapur. Regular train services connect Dimapur with major cities like Guwahati and Kolkata. National Highway 29 connects Kohima with other cities in the region, making it accessible by road.
Within Kohima, taxis are the most common mode of transportation. Shared taxis are an economical option for traveling within the city. Auto-rickshaws are also available for shorter distances. For a more flexible option, you can rent a car, but be prepared for hilly terrain and narrow roads. The city is relatively compact, so walking is a viable option for exploring local attractions. Public buses are available but are less frequent.
The official currency in Kohima is the Indian Rupee (INR). Credit and debit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it's advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available in the city, but it's wise to withdraw sufficient cash before heading to rural or remote areas.
Kohima is generally safe for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in poorly lit areas. Be cautious of your belongings in crowded places like markets and bus stations. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur. Areas like the Kohima War Cemetery and Kisama Heritage Village are safe and well-patrolled.
In case of emergency, dial 100 for police assistance and 102 for medical emergencies. Kohima has several hospitals and clinics that can provide medical care. The Naga Hospital Authority Kohima is a key medical facility in the city. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Remove your shoes before entering a place of worship. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a slight nod or handshake. Use 'sir' or 'madam' as a sign of respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like smoked pork and bamboo shoot curry. Don't waste food, as it is considered disrespectful.
To experience Kohima like a local, visit the local markets such as the Naga Bazaar and the Night Bazaar for fresh produce and traditional Naga crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the region's culture and history. Don't miss the Hornbill Festival in December, which showcases the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland. For a unique experience, trek to Dzukou Valley, known for its stunning landscapes and seasonal flowers.

When is the best time to visit Kohima?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kohima

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kohima. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloMhase
  [m-ha-se]
- GoodbyeKenei
  [ke-nei]
- YesHo
  [ho]
- NoTsü
  [tsü]
- Please/You're welcomeKhüme
  [khü-me]
- Thank youNagalandagi
  [na-ga-lan-da-gi]
- Excuse me/SorryKhibi
  [khi-bi]
- How are you?Kenei thü
  [ke-nei thü]
- Fine. And you?Theisii. Thü kenei?
  [thei-si. thü ke-nei?]
- Do you speak English?English kümüsu?
  [english kü-mü-su?]
- I don't understandTheisii nüthü
  [thei-si nu-thü]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMenu sünü thü
  [me-nu sü-nü thü]
- I don't eat meatKüma sii nüthü
  [kü-ma sii nu-thü]
- Cheers!Tülü
  [tü-lü]
- I would like to pay, pleaseThü nüthü thü
  [thü nu-thü thü]
- Help!Süng
  [süng]
- Go away!Jano
  [ja-no]
- Call the Police!Police sünü thü
  [po-lice sü-nü thü]
- Call a doctor!Doctor sünü thü
  [doc-tor sü-nü thü]
- I'm lostYamahü
  [ya-ma-hü]
- I'm illNüthü
  [nu-thü]
- I'd like to buy...Alü thü
  [a-lü thü]
- I'm just lookingYamahü
  [ya-ma-hü]
- How much is it?Thé thü
  [thé thü]
- That's too expensiveThépisii kha
  [thé-pi-si kha]
- Can you lower the price?Kha sünü thü
  [kha sü-nü thü]
- What time is it?Thé thü?
  [thé thü?]
- It's one o'clockTheü khüni
  [theü khü-ni]
- Half past (10)Théphüni (10)
  [thé-phü-ni (10)]
- MorningKhüni
  [khü-ni]
- AfternoonKhenei
  [khe-nei]
- EveningTheü
  [theü]
- YesterdayYahü
  [ya-hü]
- TodayThüni
  [thü-ni]
- TomorrowThüni tsü
  [thü-ni tsü]
- 1Kha
  [kha]
- 2Keni
  [ke-ni]
- 3Thuni
  [thu-ni]
- 4Kuni
  [ku-ni]
- 5Tsüni
  [tsü-ni]
- 6Khuni
  [khu-ni]
- 7Tuni
  [tu-ni]
- 8Nuni
  [nu-ni]
- 9Süni
  [sü-ni]
- 10Kümi
  [kü-mi]
- Where's a/the...?Ama...
  [a-ma...]
- What's the address?Dress...
  [dress...]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Map sünü thü
  [map sü-nü thü]
- When's the next (bus)?Bus sünü thü
  [bus sü-nü thü]
- A ticket (to ....)Ticket (....) thü
  [ticket (....) thü]

History of Kohima

Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, is an ancient city with a rich cultural heritage. The area has been inhabited by the Naga tribes for centuries. The Angami tribe, in particular, has a significant presence here. The Naga people have a rich oral tradition, and their folklore is filled with tales of bravery, community, and the natural beauty of the region.
In the 19th century, Kohima came under British administration as part of the Naga Hills district. The British established Kohima as a district headquarters in 1879. The colonization led to the introduction of Christianity and Western education, which brought significant changes to local society. However, this period also saw resistance from the Naga tribes, who fought to preserve their autonomy and culture.
One of the most significant historical events in Kohima is the Battle of Kohima, fought from April to June 1944 during World War II. This battle was part of the larger Burma Campaign and marked the turning point in the Allied forces' efforts to repel Japanese advances into India. The battle is often referred to as the 'Stalingrad of the East' due to its intensity and strategic importance. The Kohima War Cemetery, a poignant reminder of this battle, is a place of solemn remembrance.
After India gained independence in 1947, Kohima continued to play a significant role in the region. Nagaland was officially declared a state of India on December 1, 1963, with Kohima as its capital. This period saw efforts to develop infrastructure, education, and healthcare in the region. Despite these advancements, the region also experienced insurgency and demands for greater autonomy from the Indian government, leading to periods of unrest.
Kohima is a vibrant cultural hub, known for its rich traditions and festivals. The Hornbill Festival, held every December, is one of the most famous events in the region. It showcases the culture, music, dance, and crafts of the Naga tribes and attracts visitors from all over the world. The festival is named after the Indian Hornbill, a bird that is revered in Naga folklore. Traditional Naga cuisine, handloom products, and indigenous games are some of the highlights of this festival.
Today, Kohima is a blend of traditional and modern influences. The city has grown while maintaining its cultural roots. Modern amenities, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities have developed alongside traditional Naga homes and markets. The cityscape includes landmarks like the Kohima Cathedral, which is one of the largest and most beautiful churches in Asia, and the State Museum, which offers insights into the diverse cultures of Nagaland.