9 Amazing Things You Should Do While Vacationing in Kohima

Nine Must-See Tourist Destinations in Kohima
Tucked up in the verdant Naga Hills, Kohima combines culture and history with breathtaking scenery for a memorable vacation experience. Every traveler will be enthralled by the experiences offered by the war monuments and ethnic settlements! Let’s examine the top 9 attractions in Kohima that you shouldn’t overlook while planning your ideal getaway.

1. Take stock at the Kohima Historic Battlefield War Cemetery
Visit the Commonwealth War Graves Commission-run Kohima War Cemetery to be reminded of the intense Battle of Kohima that took place during World War II. Stroll past somber rows of headstones honoring courageous warriors and outstanding officers—some as young as 15 years old—who gave their lives in battle. There is calm and harmony as both Japanese and Allied soldiers are put to rest.

The main feature is the monument “To the Dead of War” in the center.
More than 1500 World War II servicemen are remembered on these graves.
There is no entry fee.
Location: Kohima’s downtown
At this memorial location, take a minute to silently consider the atrocities of war and the sacrifices made by sacrificed souls.

2. Witness Kisama Heritage Village’s Cultural Extravaganza
Kisama village, the center of the renowned annual Hornbill Festival, which highlights Naga culture via art, dance, music, sports, cuisine, and more during the first week of December, is located only 12 kilometers outside of Kohima! Stroll by thatched houses adorned with colorful warrior-symbolism spears and hand-woven scarves. As you sample regional specialties like smoked pork and bamboo shoots, see cultural troupes performing traditional dances.

The Mr. Nagaland bodybuilding event is the festival’s centerpiece.
WWII trenches and Kisama Heritage Park are nearby sites.
Admission: 100 and above throughout the week of the event
Option for lodging: Remain in traditional Naga huts
Remember to take colorful pictures of people in traditional clothing dancing to warrior dances!

3. Visit Kohima Cathedral to Find Quiet Calm
The Gothic-styled medieval Cathedral of Mary Help of Christians in Kohima is tucked away among shops on Church Road. Inside the serene prayer hall, take in the soaring steeples, arched stained windows, unique floral designs, and wooden beams. To get a broad perspective of the hillside city encircled by tropical trees, ascend the bell tower’s small spiral staircase.

Consecrated in 1951, built in 1944
Highlight: Delicate mosaic panels made of glass
There is no admission charge.
Mass times are 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. in the morning.
At this famous church set high on the hills, light a candle with a prayer in your heart.

4. Flower Valley Journey to Dz kou
Discover how to get one with nature by hiking through the “Valley of Flowers” in the Northeast, also known as the epidemic valleys of Dz kou, which are around 25 kilometers from Kohima. Crossing gurgling creeks, bridges, and exotic Himalayan flora like orchids, lilies, and aconites nod by the trailside that leads up to charming tree cabins for stargazing camping under soaring clouds.

Trek highlights: In the summer, meadows are a riot of color, with rhododendrons, aconites, and wild dahlias.
2438 meters above sea level
Time: More than two or three days
Required authorization from the Nagaland Tourism Department
Breathe in the pure mountain air, have a picnic on the lush slopes, and fall asleep with a view of the infinite silver rivers winding through the lush hills.

5. Visit Khonoma Village to Learn About Ancient Life
Discover more about Naga culture by traveling about 20 kilometers from Kohima city to the 600-year-old Khonoma historical conservation hamlet. Stroll around thatched Angami Naga homes with carved logs adorned with hunting memories and stone walkways. Play traditional games outside as youngsters chat with craftswomen making unusual shawls and listen to tales of ancient warriors in Asia’s first green village.

Entry cost: There is no admission price.
Stays at guest houses start at $1000 per night, which includes meals.
Purchase cotton and bamboo handicrafts as souvenirs.
Enjoy a dinner of smoked, spiced pork while getting a peek of the leisurely pace of life on the terraced farms that surround you.

6. Visit Mount Japfu for birdwatching
Get ready to be in awe of one of Nagaland’s tallest peaks, the lush Japfu mountain, which rises above 3000 meters and is surrounded by deep tropical greenery. As you go higher, you may anticipate expansive vistas of communities tucked away in the Eastern Himalayan foothills and drifting clouds. With over 250 species of hornbills, laughing thrushes, and naga-wren babblers flitting about, this place is an ornithologist’s dream come true!

Elevation: 3048 meters above sea level
March to May and September to November are the trekking seasons.
Permit: District Tourism Office required
15 kilometers to the south of Kohima City
Bring along your zoom lens and binoculars to identify uncommon bird species against picturesque mountain scenery!

7. Discover the State Museum’s Tribal History
Explore more about Naga history at the State Museum in Kohima, which has extensive artifacts that shed light on more than 20 different tribes, including the Konyak headhunters, and their particular way of life. Examine relics such as carved totems, weapons, musical instruments, and decorations that trace their origins from the time of the ancient cavemen to the present. Photographs and cards detailing the intriguing history and mythology of the objects may be found alongside them.

Entrance fees: fifty foreigners and ten Indians
Traditional Naga Morungs, Ceramics, and jewelry are a must-see.
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed on Sundays
You will undoubtedly depart with a deeper understanding of the lively but lesser-known Naga history!

8. Travel Village Hoping to Enchanted Dz leke
Searching for a unique place to go natural? See the Dz Leeke Model Village, which is a pioneer in community-based ecotourism and discussion in Nagaland, offering eco-friendly homestays and agricultural resorts. It is located near Kohima. Experience the tranquility of nature by trekking through jungles to waterfalls or just letting go and engaging with Angami farmers. Learn about their activities, such as organic beekeeping, food forests, and composting, which support their traditional way of life amid beautiful scenery.

The viewpoint hike up Jotsoma Hill is a major attraction.
Accommodations: Cottages for an Ecotourism Stay
Travel time: 30 kilometers in shared or private taxis from Kohima
Nothing revives you more quickly than hearing the sounds of birds in cozy homes nestled among expansive views of the mountains.

9. Evening Cafe & Shopping Take a stroll around Main Market
Kohima’s main market comes alive with music, conversation, and mouthwatering fragrances as nightfall approaches! have a vibrant atmosphere as you meander around stores and booths, where you can purchase carved wood sculptures, cane basketry, and Naga shawls. You can also have some local small meals, like as skewers, sizzling hot noodles, and pork dumplings. It is the ideal, joyful way to round off your day!

Market location: in the town center of Kohima
What to buy: spears with a warrior theme, bamboo flasks, and elaborately beaded neckpieces
Must-try local cuisine: Galho pork curry with fermented soybeans, Axone
Take a picture against colorful stalls that are all lit up with smiles to capture that cozy Christmas vibe.I hope you had a great time exploring Kohima’s cultural, natural, and historical trails for the perfect Northeast getaway! Are you prepared to pack your belongings?