The cultural capital of Nagaland, Kohima, sits at an altitude of 14000 m, showcasing the beauty of Northeast India. Known as Kewhi-ra among the locals, this quaint hill station stands as a testament to the forgotten culture, wartime history, and tribal traditions buried in the Northeast. Here, travellers can often witness untouched landscapes which seamlessly blend into the slow-paced city life.
If you are looking for a quaint escape, then booking one of the many reliable travel agents for the Northeast can be very advantageous. These knowledgeable local tour operators can help you get a deeper glimpse into the culture of the city and also offer suggestions for everything you need. Here is an overview of Kohima, which can help you make your trip more seamless.
1. A Glimpse into History: The Kohima War Cemetery
One of the most significant heritage sites in Kohima is the Kohima War Cemetery, which is a war memorial built to honour the lost souls during WWII. Due to Kohima being one of the major sites in the war, it was attacked by the Japanese army during the Battle of Kohima in 1944. Here you can learn about the sacrifices made by the valiant Northeast soldiers and reflect on the stories of their bravery, which were lost in translation over the years. This site reminds visitors of the price of peace, and also offers beautiful scenery of the valley below.
2. Experience Tribal Culture at Kisama Heritage Village
World-acclaimed for its vibrant Horbilla Festival, the Kisama Heritage Village is a must-visit destination. With reliable North East tour operators, you can learn a lot about the architecture, lifestyle, nd cultural identity of the 16 major Naga tribes, other than the information portrayed in the village.
If you are visiting in December, then you will be able to witness the colourful celebration of the Hornbill festival, which is often filled with traditional dance, music, crafts, and cuisines.
3. Trekking to Dzukou Valley – Nature’s Secret Paradise
If you are an adventurous enthusiast, Dzoku Valley is the perfect destination for you. Located at the border of Nagaland and Manipur, this valley serves tat the best hiking spot with its trails covering rolling hills, clear rivers and fields blooming with the rare Dzukou lily. With the help of travel agents for the Northeast, you can cover some kilometres in the outskirts of the city, where you will be greeted with dense forests, bamboo groves and misty ridgelines.
4. Local Cuisine and Markets – A Taste of Naga Life
The Naga cuisine is known for its bold, spicy and smoky flavours. The locals of these regions are very in tune with their traditional cooking and tend to include indigenous herbs, fresh produce and fermented foods. It is also known for its prominent crop, the Bhut Jolokia or ghost pepper. While visiting the market area, make sure to try out smoked meat with Bamboo shoot, Axone (fermented soybean) and Galho ( veggie porridge) in the local eateries.
5. Jotsoma and Puliebadze – Offbeat Adventures Near Kohima
If you're someone who enjoys off-the-map destinations, head to Jotsoma village, just a short drive from the city. Home to the picturesque Khonoma Nature Conservation Village, this area is known for its commitment to ecological preservation.
Hiking trails lead to scenic viewpoints and waterfalls, and the local hospitality is heartwarming. Just beyond Jotsoma is Puliebadze, a hill that rewards trekkers with sweeping views of the Dzukou Valley and Kohima city
Conclusion
Kohima is not your typical tourist town; it tells stories through its culture, people, food, and history. It doesn’t try to charm with commercial glitz, but rather invites you to slow down and truly connect with nature and its community. To make the most of your trip, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the terrain, customs, or logistics of northeast travel, teaming up with trusted travel agents for the Northeast can make a world of difference