Mixed Bag

Dimapur - Located on NH 39 it is a major commercial and trading hub of Nagaland. It used to be the capital of the Kachari rulers, the ancient ruins of that medieval kingdom in the heart of the town bears its testimony. A visit to the Ruth abd Haralu emporia is a must for handicraft lovers, where one can see women weaving exquisite Naga shawls and traditional handicraft items.

The War Cemetary - This cemetery is memorial commemorating the memories of the officers and men who sacrificed their lives regardless of race , nationality or religion during World War II . The Common War Graves Commission Keeps the cemetery very well-maintained. A serene and rose filled stretch of green and graves, with two tall crosses it is one of the most well recognized feature of the state.

The Catholic Cathedral - The red roof of this Cathedral of Reconciliation at Aradurah hills is an important landmark of Kohima. The carved wooden crucifix is the largest in India.

The State Museum - Essentially a diorama, it showcases some of the most fascinating aspects of Naga tribal life .Ancestral weaponry , carved gateposts, status pillars that record the feast of merit and traditional Naga Costumes and jewels are here for display. The museum is open from 10 am to 3 pm and are closed on Sundays and holidays.

The Zoo - The zoo at Kohima is built on a lovely hill-slope and it cages among other things, the mithun - a semi-wild bison. There is also the golden langur, discovered by naturalist E P Gee and the Blythe's Tragopan pheasant ,which is on the verge of extinction. The zoo is open from 9 am to11am and 1 pm to 5 pm in summer and from 9 am to 11 am and 1 pm to 4 pm in winter. Zoo remains closed on Mondays.

Barra Basti - Said to be the second biggest village in the world this is where Kohima began according to Naga legend. It has one of the finest ceremonial gates, common to all Naga villages. The exquisite carvings of warriors and guns, and the Naga symbol of prosperity - the mithun heightens the importance of the gateway.

Eco/Adventure

The abundance of hills and valleys provides ample scope for nature lovers to get the thrill they seek out of close proximity with nature.

For adventurous enthusiasts willing to set out to try something exciting, Dzukou valley and Japfu peaks offer them a not to be missed opportunity of trekking. The snow capped Himalayan peaks are like paradise here at Dzukou and Japfu. Besides, a walk into the famous wildlife sanctuary, Intaki wildlife sanctuary open a diverse and immense wild world before wildlife lovers. The sanctuary being the single home to hoolock baboon, the only gibbon in India, also has wild animals like Elephant, Mithun, Sambhar, Barking Deer, Flying Squirrel, Tiger, Wild Dog, Sloth Bears are its prme inhabitants.

Excursions-
Khonoma Village - Full of Nagalands natural bounty ecological diversity it has a traditional ceremonial gate and steep stone steps which leads to the highest point in the village. On the way to the village one can find the memorial stones erected to commemorate the Feast of Merit and the intricate system of bamboo pipes laid to carry water to long distances. Due to its unique soil condition and elevation, its farmers can grow twenty different kinds of rice here. It is here that the Naga warriors made their last stand against the British in 1897. A simple pillar commemorates G H Damant, Maj. C R cock, Lt H Forbes and Sub Maj Nurbir Sai who died fighting the Nagas in Khonoma.

Mokokchung - One of the great centres of Ao Naga tradition, its glory is amply reflected in the beautiful red and black shawls with the white decorated band that signifies their victories over their enemies. Moatsu and Tsungremmong are two of its major festivals which are connected with sowing. The tug-of -war between men and women in the Tsungremmong festival is a major crowd puller.

Wokha - Home to the Lotha tribes , these hilltop villages are studded with monoliths erected by rich ancestors portraying their high status in the society. This tribe is well known for its colorful dances and folk songs. This district is also renowned for its oranges and pineapples.

Phek - This district headquarters is famous for its Tsukhenyie festival which takes place in March- April. Blythe Tragopan pheasants as well exotic varieties of orchids are in abundance here.

Zunheboto - Home to the martial Sema tribe , they are famous for their war dance, folk dance and ceremonial war dresses. Tuluni in the month of July is one of its important festivals.

Quick Ones

For those pressed for time and yet seeking for the best that time can offer in Nagaland we have a short itinerary of spots in and around Kohima

Nagaland State Museum The State Museum in Kohima treasures a rare collection of articles of different tribes which speak about the history and traditions of the Nagas.

Sales Emporium Located in the heart of Kohima, the emporium sells a variety of Naga art and handicraft items.

Zoological Park The zoo in Kohima has some rare species of animals and birds, including the rare Blythe's Tragopan.

Intangki Wildlife Sanctuary Located at a distance of 37 km from Dimapur, this sanctuary has some rare species of birds.

Khonoma Around 10 kms from Kohima, lies the village of Khonoma, that is steeped in tales of valour and gallantry. The Khonoma gate relates the story of British infiltration into Naga Hills.