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Location : Nagaland

Languages : Angami, English, Hindi

Temperature : In summer, mercury varies from 16-31 degree Celsius; in winters, 4-20 degree Celsius

Major Attractions : War Cemetery, Catholic Cathedral, Kohima Village

Best Visiting Time : Months between October and April

Sitting nicely on northeastern border, Kohima is a city of scenic beauty and natural wealth. This capital city of Nagaland has an average elevation of about 1500 meters from sea level. The hilly terrains along with pleasant weather make your vacation a cherishable experience. Credited with the status of a Municipal Council, the city welcomes the guests with its ethnic culture and virgin beauty. So, if the rigmarole of crowded cities is making you mad, a trip to this unique land can prevent you from becoming insane.

Highlights of the City :

Kohima is named after a plant named Kew Hi that thrives over rugged mountains. Original inhabitants that occupied the territory were Rengma and Angami tribes. As time passed by, people from other parts of the country stated settling here. From historical point of view, city is quiet important. It was the venue of battle that was fought between the troops of Britain and Japan during Second World War. A cemetery was erected here in memory of those who got killed in war. Agriculture is the main occupation here; some jobs in government sector are also available.

Down the Lane :

British tried to infiltrate into the territory for a period of forty years; the untiring efforts by Naga tribals who had never been under the rule of any kind before kept the colonists at bay.

Attractions :

War Cemetery :

Japanese troops that tried to land foot at Kohima in order to gain stronghold over the Indian mainland. Allied forces resisted the invasion; about 10000 soldiers were killed in doing so. This fierce battle continued for a period of three months. A cemetery was set here to remember the sacrifice of the acts of bravery of all those were killed during war. As you visit the place, you will be overwhelmed by its gracious presence. The authorities have beautified the cemetery with rose plants and lush grrenery. Here, you can see innumerable bronze plaques with names of soldiers written on each one of them. Heart rendering lines are written on an epitaph that to make you overwhelm with emotions.

Catholic Cathedral :

Situated atop Aradura Hill, a Catholic Cathedral is present. Renowned for one among the biggest ones in North East, the Cathedral is a fine piece of architecture.

Kohima Village :

Called Bara Basti by local inhabitants, this village is the testimonial of the opulence of Angami tribes who were responsible for building it. The village welcomes you by an exquisitely carved wooden entrance; the images of ethnic warriors and the equipments used by them are depicted here. The houses that are present within the premises of the village are adorned with scenes of grand feasts at their entrances.

Zoological Park :

Constructed atop a hill, this zoo is a nice place to spend a day in the company of varied fauna. Here, you can have the privilege of watching some exotic animals and bird species; Blythe's Tragopan and golden langurs are a few examples of this kind.

Museum :

As you go about 2 kilometers to the north of Kohima, you will get an opportunity to explore traditional culture of the state. If you are enthusiastic to know about different perspectives of numerous tribes, it is the right kind of place for you. The items that are kept on display in the premises of the museum are statues, ornaments, gateposts and many more. Another highlight here is a massive drum that was used on ceremonial occasions. The basement is beautified by images of birds and animals that are typical to North East.

Naga Bazaar :

A point of convergence of all the roads of Kohima, this market is famous for trading activities related to livestock. Apart from thus, you can buy souvenirs for your dear ones; these include items of jewelry, fishery and handicrafts.

Fakim Sanctuary :

Bestowed with natural beauty, this sanctuary is home to tigers and gibbons. Another sanctuary that is located near the city is Pulie Badze; it is extended to an area of nine square kilometers.

Nearby Attractions :

A tour to some nearby states can further gratify your need of recreation. Let's have a look at some of them:

Tuophema :

Situated about 49 kilometers from the destination, Tuophema is a lovely hamlet that showcases cultural heritage of the state. You will be gripped by a feel of antiquity that is associated with this place.

Ruzaphema :

This recreational place is situated on the road connecting Kohima to Dimapur. Here, you can have the glimpse of glittering bazaars that sell handicraft items related to tribal culture and lifestyle. Another picturesque site can be seen at Khonoma village. Here, you are welcomed by paddy fields that are cultivated at different altitudes.

Japfu Peak :

Popular as being the second highest peak that adores Nagaland, Japfu Peak carries an elevation of more than 3000 meters from sea level. The peak offers opportunities like trekking and rock climbing. Beholding the site of Kohima from here can be a visual delight.

Dzukou Valley :

With an average elevation of 2438 m, the valley offers nice options for enjoying trekking. You can see its wide vistas covered with bamboo bushes. In summers, you will see countless stretches of lilies and other flowers covering the entire area.

Mikokchung/ Zunheboto :

These towns are laced with natural beauty and offer nice tourist destinations. The festival of Aos Moatsu is celebrated here in the month of May.

Dimapur :

A commercial city of Nagaland is yet another locale that you can include in your visit to Kohima. The only airport of the state is present here and lets other neighboring states get connected to Meghalya, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, and Assam.

Accommodation :

A few good hotels are present here and are run privately. Do not hope to get any lodges as there aren't any. To book Tourist Lodge, you have to pay a portion of rent at the time of booking.

Kohima's visit lets you have a feel of its pristine culture and offers you to know about different tribes that form its inherent part.