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Where nature, culture, and history come together—Kohima is the capital city of Nagaland that overwhelms any traveller. Located amidst the hills in the northeastern region of India, Kohima calls out to travellers through its vibrant festivals, scenic landscapes, and unique tribal heritage. From the poignant Kohima War Cemetery to the bustling Naga Bazaar and the serene beauty of Dzükou Valley, Kohima unfurls a tapestry of experiences that promises to captivate every single visitor. Following are the top 10 places to visit in Kohima, and these will bring out the diverse range of attractions on offer in the city.
Top 10 Places To Visit In Kohima
Kohima is a brimming city surrounded by exquisite natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. The top 10 places to visit in Kohima are given below.
1. Kohima War Cemetery
Photo: PP Yoonus / Wikimedia Commons
The Kohima War Cemetery is an epitaph of the bloodiest battles that were fought during World War II. It lies on the slopes of Garrison Hill and contains more than 1,420 graves. The cemetery brings one to a point of reflection and respect. It offers a highly serene environment to pay homage to the bravery of soldiers and their sacrifices, making it one of the top places to visit in Kohima.
Major Attractions: World War II memorial, serene environment
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
Suggested Read: Places To Visit In Nagaland
2. Kisama Heritage Village
Photo: Aravind Manickam / Wikimedia Commons
Kisama Heritage Village is the centre of the famous Hornbill Festival and a haven of culture, giving insight into the traditional lifestyle of Naga tribes. The open-air museum showcases replicas of conventional houses and dormitories of Nagas, along with other tribal artefacts. During the Hornbill Festival, which happens every December, the village bursts into colourful performances of folk dances, music, and crafts.
Major Attractions: Traditional Naga houses, Hornbill Festival, cultural performances
Best Time To Visit: December – during the Hornbill Festival
Ideal Trip Duration: 3 – 4 Hours
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
3. Naga Bazaar
Photo: Anonymousme / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Naga Bazaar is a vibrant market that showcases the authenticity of both old and new Naga life. It is famous for its unique products and is worth a visit to buy local produce, fresh vegetables, fruits, traditional meats, and Naga spices. Particularly notable are the beautifully handwoven textiles, tribal jewellery, and handmade crafts on sale. The artisans make Naga Bazaar a tourist attraction in Kohima, giving a feel of the cultures and traditions.
Major Attractions: Traditional Naga products, handwoven textiles, tribal jewellery
Best Time To Visit: Any time of the year
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
Suggested Read: Things To Do In Dimapur
4. Dzükou Valley
Photo: GuruBidya / Wikimedia Commons
Dzükou Valley, known as the ‘Valley of Flowers of the East,’ is like a playground for trekkers and nature lovers. Located at the juncture of Nagaland and Manipur, the valley features captivating landscapes and rolling meadows adorned with various seasonal flowers, including the rare Dzükou Lily. The valley offers a tranquil ambience with panoramic views, making it an ideal camping ground, trekking route, and the perfect destination for photography. The trek to Dzükou Valley is of medium difficulty through lush green forests and scenic trails.
Major Attractions: Scenic landscapes, Trekking, Seasonal flowers
Best Time To Visit: June to September, October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 Days
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
5. Japfu Peak
Photo: Nilotpal Kalita / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Situated at an altitude of 3,048 metres, Japfu Peak is the second-highest peak in Nagaland. The trek to Japfu Peak is one of the most famous among trekkers. Visitors will also be able to see the world’s tallest rhododendron tree, over 109 feet tall. The hike to Japfu Peak should be on tourists’ Kohima tourist places list for its panoramic views and the great variety of flora and fauna.
Major Attractions: Trekking, Tallest Rhododendron Tree, Panoramic Views
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Days
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
Suggested Read: Popular Things To Do In Kohima
6. Khonoma Village
Photo: Girish Mohan P K / Wikimedia Commons
Located about 20 kilometres from Kohima, Khonoma Village is the first green village in India. Khonoma is a picturesque village inhabited by the Angami Naga tribe, showcasing traditional ways of life, culture, and history. The village practices sustainable farming and is involved in conservation efforts. Visitors can enjoy views of terraced fields, stroll through lush green landscapes, and learn about community-driven initiatives in wildlife and forest conservation.
Major Attractions: Sustainable farming, Angami Naga culture, historical importance
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Ideal Duration of Trip: 1 Day
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
7. State Museum
Photo: Daderot / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The State Museum in Kohima tells historical tales about the rich cultural heritage and history of Nagaland. This museum contains different types of artefacts, such as traditional Naga costumes, jewellery, weapons, and tools that educate visitors on the various Naga tribes and their way of life. The visit to the State Museum is more like a vacation through the annals of Nagaland’s history, giving an insight into the people, their traditions, and their heritage. The museum is one of the best places for a Kohima trip.
Major Attractions: Traditional Naga artefacts, historical documents, and Hornbill Festival gallery
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
Suggested Read: Rangapahar Wildlife Sanctuary
8. Shilloi Lake
Photo: Murari521 / Wikimedia Commons
Situated in the Patkai Range, Phek district, Shilloi Lake is a natural lake surrounded by lush green hills and is one of the most serene and picturesque natural lakes. This lake holds cultural-cum-religious importance for the local Chakhesang tribe as they believe that the spirit of a holy child resides in the middle of the surface. It is in the shape of a footprint and provides a serene environment to relax and reflect. Visitors can sightsee, take leisurely walks around the lake or hire a guide to tell them about folklore and local traditions.
Major Attractions: Natural beauty, cultural significance, peaceful environment
Best Time To Visit: October to April
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Hours
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
9. Pulie Badze
Photo: Jim Ankan Deka / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Located close to Kohima, Pulie Badze is a beautiful hilltop that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes and the city below. This hill gets its name from Pulie, a legendary Naga warrior who saved the village from evil spirits. At the top, one is greeted with breathtaking views of the lush green hills, valleys, and distant mountains. The serene and picturesque setting of Pulie Badze offers the perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts.
Major Attractions: Bird’s eye view, trekking, folklore significance
Best Time To Visit: October to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 2 – 3 Hours
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
Suggested Read: Singphan Wildlife Sanctuary
10. Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Jack Merlin / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Located 35 kilometres away from Dimapur, Intaki Wildlife Sanctuary attracts visitors. Spanning 200 kilometres, it houses a large variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, Mithun (wild buffalo), and different bird species. Tourists can take guided tours and nature walks to explore the dense forests, meandering rivers, and emerald landscapes. The sanctuary’s efforts in conserving and protecting endangered species significantly enhance its importance as a vital ecological reserve
Major Attractions: Diverse wildlife, Guided tours, nature walks
Best Time To Visit: November to March
Ideal Trip Duration: 1 – 2 Days
Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
From its historic charm to its rich culture, Kohima offers a lifetime’s worth of experiences for travellers. From poignant memories at Kohima War Cemetery to the vibrant cultural presentation in Kisama Heritage Village, these places to visit in Kohima make it an unforgettable destination for visitors. So what are you waiting for? Plan your trip to Kohima with TripXL now!
Cover Photo: Vipin Joseph / Unsplash
