Kohima is the capital of Nagaland which is situated in North East India. It is the land ruled by the warriors of the Nagas Tribes. Britishers invaded Naga territory, and thus, the name Kohima derives after making Naga Hills their headquarter. Before the British invasion, Kohima was known as Kewhi Flower, which grows in Kohima. This scenic capital of Nagaland was once inhabited mainly by the Angami Tribe, but today people from all ethnicities of different regions of Nagaland reside here.
Historically, the cherished capital town of Nagaland has its roots associated with World War 2 because it has experienced the Battle of Kohima and the Battle of Tennis Court led by the Japanese Army and Allied Power Forces.
By exploring the tourist attractions of Kohima, you can discover the well-preserved unique culture of the ethnic tribes and meet the warm, hospitable tribals. In addition, the landscape beauty of Kohima is stunning as it has emerald forests, tranquil hills, trekking trails, and beautiful lakes to entice tourists.
Whether you are history-loving tourists, adventure admirers, or scenic beauty lovers, places to visit in kohima got you covered with every type of experience.
Here we bring you the best tourist attractions in Kohima for that perfect Nagaland trip.
Kohima War Cemetery
Several Indian and British Soldiers fought for the British Empire during World War 2 when Allied Forces clashed with Japanese troops in Kohima. As a result, several brave soldiers were killed and buried as per their religious customs in the Kohima. Kohima War Cemetery was built in April 1944 to respect the soldiers who were martyred. If you are more of a patriot type of person, visiting Kohima War Cemetery is a must on your Nagaland holidays. You could reach Kohima War Cemetery on an easy trek to Garrison Hills, where the cemetery is situated.
Best Time to Visit: October – March, and April to June
Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours (approx.)
Entry Fee: Free of Cost
Distance from Dimapur Airport: 64 kilometers/2.5 hours (approx.)
Kisama Heritage Village
Alternatively called Naga Heritage Village, the Kisama Village is perched beautifully on the green hills. It is the same tourist attraction in Nagaland where the enchanting Hornbill Festival is widely celebrated annually in December. Therefore, rich traditions and cultural activities are best enjoyed at Kisama Heritage Village. On your guided tour to the village, get ready to be amazed by the traditionally built houses featuring the Naga traditions. Kisama Heritage Village is like an assortment of the erstwhile tribal culture of the Nagas community.
Best Time to Visit: October – Winters – particularly in December to attend Hornbill Festival
Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours (approx.)
Entry Fee: Free of Cost
Distance from Dimapur Airport: 73 kilometers/2.5 hours (approx.)
Shilloi Lake
The lush green valleys surround the foot-shaped Shilloi Lake. Locals around the lake consider this lake a sacred place because they believe the spirit of the holy child resides at the bottom of the shimmering lake. There is a unique variety of flora and fauna around Shilloi Lake. Lutsam is the closest village to the lake, which provides camping options to admire the scenic beauty of the lake.
Best Time to Visit: October – June to September, and October – March
Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours (approx.)
Things to Do: Boating, bird watching, and fishing
Distance from Dimapur Airport: 198 kilometers/5 hours (approx.)
Kohima Zoo
One of the best places for nature lovers, Kohima Zoo, is home to rare birds and animals, including the Golden langur, wild buffalo, and unique flora and fauna. Kohima Zoo is the best place for the shutterbugs to see the animals in their natural habitat. Take your binoculars because Kohima Zoo is also one of the finest places for birdwatchers. Go on a jungle safari and enjoy a camping experience around the Kohima Zoo. The zoo is strategically positioned on the green hill, which means you will have plenty of trekking options inside.
Timings: 10:00 AM – 4:30 PM (approx.)
Best Time to Visit: Throughout the year
Ideal Duration: 2-3 hours (approx.)
Things to Do: Bird Watching, jungle safari, and camping
Distance from Dimapur Airport: 70 kilometers/2.5 hours (approx.)
