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The capital of Nagaland, surrounded by green mountains, fertile valleys, and a deeply-rooted tribal culture, is an ideal place to explore the Northeast. There are many fascinating places to visit near Kohima, each one providing an exclusive combination of nature, history, and tradition. The region was beaming with colours when we visited it last time, from misty-covered peaks, flower-bursting valleys, heritage villages, and water reflections. The region never runs out of ideas to offer a diverse palette of travel experiences to different kinds of travellers.
Best 10 Places To Visit Near Kohima
The places to visit near Kohima are an assortment of scenic landscapes, cultural heritage, and adventure. From peaceful valleys and heritage villages to a wildlife sanctuary, each destination represents the beauty of Nagaland’s countryside.
1. Khonoma Village
Photo: Frederick Shaw / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Khonoma is widely known as Asia’s first green village due to its dedication to sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. The village was thus converted into a green village by only one step: the community in the whole area banned hunting in the year 1998. The villagers lived in harmony with nature, blending seamlessly into their surroundings, their bare feet, hands, and souls. Khonoma exists not only as the habitat but also as the spirit of the Angami tribe, who are known for their culture that is full of joy, tradition, and architecture, as well as their craft that is intricately handwoven.
Highlights: Terraced paddy fields, heritage houses, Khonoma Nature Conservation, and Tragopan Sanctuary
Distance From Kohima: 19.8 km
2. Dzukou Valley
Photo: Arindam Saha / Unsplash
Dzukou Valley, which is also called the “Valley of Flowers of the Northeast”. It is a valley that is known for its seasonal flowers. The valley is a burst of wildflowers in the summer, and in the winter, it is covered in mist and has occasional snow. Trekkers would love it as it offered trails that went through lush forests, bamboo groves, and rolling meadows. The most frequented trek route is that which starts from Viswema or Zakhama; it is of moderate difficulty and has great views at every turn. At an altitude of 2,452 meters above sea level, Dzukou Valley also provides magnificent views of the surrounding hills.
Highlights: Rolling meadows, bamboo groves, panoramic hill views
Distance From Kohima: 30 km
3. Kisama Heritage Village
Photo: JyotiPN / Wikimedia Commons
Kisama Heritage Village is the cultural soul of Nagaland, established with a vision to exhibit the lifestyle, tradition, and architecture of all 17 major Naga tribes. It became famous as the venue of the Hornbill Festival, which is held every December, when the village transforms from a serene place to a hectic and joyous one, hosting various music, dance, crafts, and food events. Even without the festival, Kisama still allows the visitors to be part of the culture through its morungs (traditional huts), tribal artefacts, and very Naga life exhibitions.
Highlights: Traditional huts, World War II Museum, cultural exhibits
Distance From Kohima: 14 km
4. Japfu Peak
Photo: Hiroshi Kimura / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Nagaland’s second-highest mountain, Japfu Peak, is 3,048 meters high. It is a favourite trekking place, and its panoramic views of Kohima, the Dzukou Valley, and the surrounding mountains are the main reasons people come there. Spring-covered rhododendron slopes and winter-clear views are the conditions during the moderately difficult trek, which still gives hikers the best of both worlds. This spot also boasts the tallest rhododendron tree in the world (it’s over 109 feet), which spectacularly lights up the blue between March and April. The trail is open for those who want to stay overnight.
Highlights: Trekking trails, rhododendron blooms, views of Dzukou Valley
Distance From Kohima: Adventure seekers, trekkers, and nature photographers
5. Pulie Badze Wildlife Sanctuary
Photo: Shuvro Mojumder / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Pulie Badze Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the tourist attractions near Kohima for nature lovers and birdwatchers. It is located on hilly terrain that is green and vibrant. Spread across the green hills, it is the habitat for a variety of plants and animals, among which are the rare and endemic species. The place is quiet and especially popular for its trekking trails, which provide the Pulie Badze peak with the opportunity to breathe in the unlimited landscape of Kohima and the valleys around. The sanctuary has ample green cover with different kinds of orchids and wildflowers.
Highlights: Pulie Badze peak view, forested landscapes, rare bird species
Distance From Kohima: 4.6 km
6. Tuophema Village
Photo: raoyi163 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Tuophema Village is a community-run heritage destination that provides visitors with an authentic experience of Naga life. The local villagers run it, and the property is decorated with traditional-style huts made from bamboo and wood, which are comfortable homestays for guests. Here, by staying, travellers are offered the chance to attend cultural performances, taste traditional Naga dishes, and also be involved in local activities such as weaving or farming. In addition to that, the adjacent hills and farmland are perfect places for beautiful walks and birdwatching. It is a definite trip for those who want to discover Nagaland outside of the capital.
Highlights: Cultural performances, Naga cuisine, village museum
Distance From Kohima: 40.3 km
7. Dzuleke Village
Photo: Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Dzuleke Village is an eco-tourism gem known for pristine forests, clear streams, and rich biodiversity. Hunting and fishing are banned here, ensuring safe habitats for wildlife and rare birds. Visitors enjoy nature walks, short treks, and serene picnics amid gentle hills. Surrounded by terraced fields, Dzuleke offers a glimpse into traditional Angami life. Homestays let visitors savor authentic Naga cuisine and connect with warm locals. Its peaceful environment and conservation efforts make Dzuleke one of the most tranquil places near Kohima, ideal for lovers of nature, culture, and quiet.
Highlights: Forest trails, crystal-clear streams, and homestays
Distance From Kohima: Eco-tourists, peace seekers, birdwatchers
8. Mount Tiyi
Photo: Samantha Weerasinghe / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Mount Tiyi, located in the Wokha district, is 1,966 meters high and is known only through stories of the Lotha tribal people. Locals believe the peak was a mythical orchard that never died. The ascent follows tree-lined slopes covered with rhododendrons and orchids, offering spectacular views of the Doyang River and neighbouring valleys. The area is a bird paradise, and its cool temperature makes it a pleasant summer retreat. For those interested in nature and folklore, Mount Tiyi near Kohima is an enchanting spot blending panoramic beauty with epic storytelling.
Highlights: Rhododendrons, orchids, Doyang River views
Distance From Kohima: Trekkers, nature lovers, folklore enthusiasts
9. Ntangki National Park
Photo: Wolfgang Hasselmann / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Ntangki National Park in Peren district spans over 200 square kilometres of lush tropical and subtropical forests. It is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, hoolock gibbons, hornbills, and leopards. The park also features many medicinal plants and orchids, making it a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy safaris and guided tours to observe animals in their natural habitat and learn about conservation. With its rolling hills and river valleys, the terrain adds to the adventure. Ntangki is one of the richest biodiversity zones in Nagaland, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and eco-tourists near Kohima.
Highlights: Tropical forests, guided safaris, and orchid species
Distance From Kohima: Wildlife lovers, photographers, and eco-tourists
10. Shilloi Lake
Photo: Gláuber Sampaio / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Shilloi Lake in Phek district is a tranquil, pear-shaped water body surrounded by the Patkai range. Local legends say it is holy; nothing has ever been retrieved from its depths. The placid lake mirrors the surrounding hills, making it perfect for photography and meditation. Birdwatchers can spot migratory species in winter, while the fresh air and peaceful atmosphere make it an ideal picnic spot. Nearby villages offer a glimpse of rural Nagaland life. Shilloi Lake is a charming destination near Kohima, blending scenic beauty with cultural mystique for those seeking solitude.
Highlights: Birdwatching, tranquil views, Patkai range backdrop
Distance From Kohima: Photographers, nature lovers, peaceful retreats
Journeying to the many places to visit near Kohima reveals the soul of Nagaland, where each spot tells its own story and shows unique beauty. From peaceful Dzukou Valley trails to serene Shilloi Lake waters, these visits offer unforgettable experiences. Every moment brings you closer to the land and its people, making your trip truly enriching. Book your journey today with TripXL to explore the best of Nagaland and beyond.
Cover Photo: Barb Canale / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
