Kohima

Kohima is the capital of Nagaland state and sits along the foothills of the Japfü range at an elevation of roughly 1,444 meters (4,738 feet). The town spreads over forested hills and narrow valleys, where steep roads and terraced settlements shape the layout.

In 1944, the Battle of Kohima took place here, where British and Indian forces stopped the Japanese advance into India. This fight is considered one of the turning points of World War II in the Pacific theater.

The Hornbill Festival in December brings together all Naga tribes to present traditional dances, games, music performances, and food preparations at the Naga Heritage Village. Visitors experience the variety of local costumes and craft techniques that remain part of daily life throughout the region.

Visitors should bring comfortable shoes, as many paths are steep and uneven. The best time to visit falls between October and May, when weather is drier and views are clearer.

The Kohima War Cemetery is maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and displays terraced burial grounds for soldiers from World War II. A stone plaque at the entrance bears a verse from the Kohima Epitaph, often compared to Thermopylae.

Location: Kohima district

Inception: 1879

Elevation above the sea: 1,444 m

Part of: Nagaland

Website: http://kohima.nic.in

GPS coordinates: 25.66188,94.10192

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:02