Kohima is a serene city that is the administrative hub of the northeastern state of Nagaland. Nestled in the hilly terrains of the Northeast, this beautiful city is known for providing unique travel destinations to every type of traveller.The place presents the iconic Kohima Museum for historical geeks, while for nature enthusiasts, the capital has a vast Zoo. People can also explore the bustling city to look at modern-day architecture and then unwind in natural spots like Japfu Peak. It has something in store for each kind of traveller and disappoints no one while they explore Nagas’s interlinking traditions and the city’s modern influence. Keep reading our blog to learn more about Kohima and the places to visit nearby.
History Of Kohima
Image Credit: Anonymousme for Wikimedia Commons
Kohima was originally a region of Angami Nagas, a local tribe. These tribes played a crucial role in defending the capital against the British in the nineteenth century. Back then, it was known as Kewhira. Historically, people from various places settled at this everyday lace and declared it a village. Historians consider this to be the second largest village in the continent of Asia, being almost 700 years old.
After the British came in, the place was urbanised. Finally, in 1963, Kohima gained the status of capital after the formation of Nagaland by the new and sovereign Indian government. Before that, It served its homeland by fighting some of World War II’s bloodiest and most gruesome battles, making it the ‘Stalingrad’ of the Global East. After that, it suffered a lot of damage through protests, attacks, and bombings in free India. However, slowly but surely, the place emerged as a region of heritage and tranquillity.
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Top 5 Places To Visit In Kohima
Kohima is known for being a cauldron of tradition and cityscape marvels. The capital houses many distinct locations that lure in visitors. These places range from human-made marvels to nature’s beauty. Here are the top five places to visit in Kohima for an intriguing adventure.
1. Kohima Museum
Image Credit: PP Yoonus for Wikipedia Commons
The Kohima Museum is a perfect representation of the beautiful culture and heritage of Kohima for any traveller. The museum is centred around the Angami Naga tribes and thus has many exhibits displaying their clans’ everyday characteristics. People can roam around the museum, look at these models, and even read more about them. The museum houses various displays of handicrafts and artefacts, too, which are known to intrigue the average traveller. The museum also uses interactive technology, which lets tourists better understand the ways of the Naga tribes.
Location: M4P3+2W5, Upper Bayavü Hill, Nagaland 797121
Distance From Kohima: 1.5 Km
Travel Time: 4 minutes
Entry Fees: Adults: Rs. 20; Children: Rs. 10
Best Time to Visit: October to March
2. Kisama Heritage Village
Image Credit: Aravind Manickam for Wikipedia Commons
The Kisama Heritage Village is a famous destination among tourists for its unique initiative to be constructed as a living museum of the ancient tribes of the Naga culture. The town houses a total of 17 tribal groups. Their lifestyle, attire, food, and almost everything else are represented with pride and utmost respect at the yearly Hornbill Festival, which is held in December. The village is opened to the public during this festival as a living museum. People come in to watch the lifestyle of the tribes and the cultural nuances they possess. Hence, this is one of the best places to visit on a trip to Kohima.
Location: P.W.D. Colony, Nagaland 797005
Distance From Kohima: 12.2 Km
Travel Time: 28 minutes
Entry Fees: Free
Best Time to Visit: December
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3. Japfu Peak
The Japfu Peak is one of the most famous tourist destinations, and it is known for the fabulous treks it provides. The Japfu peak, though, is a challenging journey but worth it. Tourists visit yearly to witness the lush green landscapes and go on bird-watching trips to higher altitudes. They also go mountain hiking, viewing the entire city in one go from the peak. Moreover, there are also a lot of other flora nearby that people capture through their cameras. In short, the entire trip to the Japfu Peak is a wholesome adventure filled with a challenging yet satisfying trek and complimentary beauties of nature.
Location: Japfii, Nagaland 797005
Distance From Kohima: 16.1 Km
Travel Time: 40-45 minutes
Entry Fees: Free
Best Time to Visit: October to April
4. Kohima Zoo
The Kohima Zoo provide a spectacular display of the rich flora and fauna found in the valleys of Nagaland. The zoo has successfully preserved many species from being extinct, including the Tragopan bird. The bird is accredited as the state bird and was once a rare sighting. However, the number has increased. In addition, tourists visit the zoo atop a hill, which means they can watch over the entire city’s mesmerising views and bask in the beauty of this Northeastern land. Moreover, the zoo garners attention for its Golden Langurs, which every other tourist loves. The zoo also has a children’s area to keep the kids engaged in fulfilling activities while the parents take another turn around the place.
Location: M3RQ+WXM, Unnamed Road, Nagaland 797004
Distance From Kohima: 3.7 km
Travel Time: 11 – 15 min
Entry Fees: Adults: Rs. 20; Children: Rs. 10
Best Time to Visit: October to April
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5. Kohima Cathedral
Image Credit: deepgoswami for Wikimedia Commons
Kohima Cathedral, officially called the Mary Help of Christian Cathedral, is a very prominent site of religious significance in the region. The cathedral is also popular among tourists, marking it a tourist spot in most itineraries. The popularity of this place comes from its masterful architecture, which is a blend of the Naga style and the Christian style of making churches and cathedrals. In addition, the cathedral was originally built to honour the martyred soldiers of the Battle of Kohima. Hence, this is of utmost historical importance as well. The locals regularly frequent this place, and tourists can even visit it.
Location: Aradurah Hill, Nagaland 797005
Distance From Kohima: 4.6 km
Travel Time: 14 min
Entry Fees: Free
Best Time to Visit: October to April
Best Time To Visit
Image Credit: PP Yoonus for Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Kohima is between October and April, when the place features a pleasant climate. Meanwhile, the monsoons bring in a lot of greenness but muddy surfaces and risk sliding down the sloppy regions of the palace.
At the same time, summers are not preferred because of their heat and unpredictable weather. Hence, winter, especially December, is the perfect time to visit this place. During these months, people can enjoy the trip better in a dry and cool climate.
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How To Reach
Kohima is the beautiful and bustling capital of Nagaland. The place is well connected to most other regions by airway, rail, and road. Hence, here are the different ways to reach Kohima:
By Air: People can board a flight and land at Kohima Airport. After that, they can get around the area using public transportation services.
By Rail: Kohima is well-connected to other places by train, so people can get off at the Railway Station and then explore the city.
By Road: Kohima has metalled highways, allowing smooth vehicle passage. In addition, public transport is convenient and cheap.
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Kohima is a fascinating tourist destination due to its museums, botanical gardens, war memorials, and tourist-friendly places. Both locals and people from distant lands who are curious about its heritage and culture visit the place. They also participate in famous festivals, such as the Hornbill Festival. So, if you want to indulge in entertainment while also educating yourself about the vast heritage of the Nagas, be sure to book a trip to Nagaland now! Bring your camera to capture the best pictures of the world-renowned heritage sites and monumental marvels.
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Cover Image Credit : The Anonymous Earthling for Wikimedia Commons
Frequently Asked Questions About Kohima
Why is Kohima so famous?
Kohima is famous for its heritage sites, such as the Kohima Cathedral, and other marvels, such as the wartime memorial, the zoological parks, the marketplaces, and nearby tourist attractions.
Who won the Battle of Kohima?
The Allied Forces, which defeated the native people and the Japanese Imperial Army, won the Battle of Kohima. This was a twist in the fate of Kohima.
What language is spoken in Kohima?
The major language spoken in Kohima is English. However, different tribes speak Naga dialects, which are still in use today.
What is the famous food of Kohima?
Kohima is famous for Naga cuisine, which includes pork and bamboo shoots. Dishes like Akidhe, a fermented soybean paste, are also eaten with the main meal every day.
What is special about the Kohima Night Bazaar?
The Kohima Night Bazaar features unique handicrafts and local items, which attracts many people. This marketplace is always bustling and never left alone.
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