10 Things-To-Do in Kohima

Kohima is the capital of Nagaland and one of the most culturally rich hill towns in Northeast India. Set across forested ridges, the city blends strong tribal traditions, colonial-era history, and a slow mountain rhythm of life. For travelers, Kohima is less about ticking attractions and more about understanding people, stories, and landscapes that still feel deeply rooted and real.

Here are 10 meaningful things to do in and around Kohima, viewed from a traveler’s perspective and grounded in what the place truly offers.

1. Walk Through the Kohima War Cemetery

Visit the Kohima War Cemetery, maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. It commemorates soldiers who died during the 1944 Battle of Kohima in World War II. The site is quiet, well-kept and offers panoramic views of the hills. The famous epitaph, “When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today”, adds emotional depth to the visit.

2. Trek to Dzukou Valley

A short drive from Kohima leads to one of Nagaland’s most celebrated landscapes, Dzukou Valley. Known for its rolling grasslands and seasonal wildflowers, the valley is best visited between June and September. Treks usually start from Viswema or Zakhama village and require moderate fitness.

Just 12 km from the city lies Kisama, also called the Naga Heritage Village. It hosts the Hornbill Festival every December. Even outside festival time, visitors can see traditional Naga morungs, architecture, and village layouts representing different tribes.

4. Visit Khonoma Village

About 20 km from Kohima, Khonoma is known as India’s first green village. It has a strong history of resistance against the British and is now a model for community-led conservation. Walk through terraced fields, old stone paths, and learn about Angami Naga culture from local guides.

5. Hike Up Japfu Peak

Standing at over 3,000 meters, Japfu Peak is one of the highest peaks in the state. The trail passes through forests and open ridges. In spring, the area is known for rhododendrons, including one of the tallest recorded rhododendron trees in the world.

6. Attend Sunday Service at Kohima Cathedral

The Mary Help of Christians Cathedral is one of the largest churches in Northeast India. Built in traditional Naga architectural style, attending a Sunday service offers insight into how Christianity and indigenous culture coexist in everyday life.

7. Try Local Naga Food

Kohima is one of the best places to experience authentic Naga cuisine. Look for local eateries serving smoked pork, bamboo shoot dishes, axone (fermented soybean), fresh greens, and sticky rice. Meals are simple, seasonal, and often spicy, reflecting local food habits rather than tourist adaptations.

8. Visit Kohima State Museum

Located near the Secretariats, the Kohima State Museum displays traditional weapons, ornaments, textiles, and household items from various Naga tribes. It helps visitors understand the diversity within Nagaland before exploring villages.

9. Shop at Local Markets

Spend time at Kohima’s local markets, especially the main town area. You will find smoked meats, dried fish, wild vegetables, local chilies, handwoven shawls and bamboo products. These markets are functional, not curated, which makes them an honest window into daily life.

10. Take a Village Walk Around Kohima

Several Angami villages surround the city and can be explored on foot or by short drives. Walking through these villages allows travelers to see traditional houses, granaries, and community spaces. Interactions are usually warm and respectful if visitors ask before photographing and follow local customs.

3. Explore Kisama and the Hornbill Festival Grounds