Kohima, the seat of administration of
Nagaland, is a beautiful town and a charming hill station perched at an altitude of 1495 m above sea level, in north-eastern India. The place is noted for its salubrious climate and the rich panoramic views. Kohima is situated along the
National Highway 39, 145 km to the north of
Imphal.
Kohima was founded by the British alongside the large Angami village of Kohima for administrative reasons. Situated loosely over a saddle joining two large hills, the town hides behind its modern looks, an eventful past. It was the trough of the three month long Battle of Kohima, which had claimed the lives of more than 10,000 soldiers. The Second World War Cemetery stands as a memorial to the Allies who had laid down their lives while defending the invaders.
Places of tourist interest include the ruins of medieval Kachari Kingdom,
Ruzaphema (5 km),
Japfu Peak (15 km), Intangki Wildlife Sanctuary (37 km),
Sales Emporium and the State Museum. A trip to the
Kohima Village perched on a high hill overlooking the Kohima town or to the villages of
Khonoma (20 km) or Jakhema will help get an intimate glimpse of the traditional Naga life at close quarters.
Nearest airport is at
Dimapur (74 km), which is also the closest railway station. By road, Kohima is linked with Dimapur, Imphal, Guwahati and Shillong.
