Kohima Travel Guide: History, Culture and Hornbill
The journal
Destinations · 5 min read · Apr 2026

Kohima Travel Guide: History, Culture and Hornbill

Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, blends poignant WWII history with living Naga culture and serves as the gateway to the famous Hornbill Festival.

The War Cemetery

The Kohima War Cemetery honours those who fell in the 1944 Battle of Kohima, a turning point of the Burma Campaign. Its terraced lawns and famous epitaph are deeply moving.

Culture and markets

The bustling Kohima market and the state museum offer an introduction to Naga life, while nearby Kisama hosts the Hornbill Festival each December.

Where it fits

Base two nights in Kohima to combine the city, Kisama and a day trip to Khonoma village.

  • ILP required for Indian visitors
  • Gateway to Kisama & Hornbill
  • Add Khonoma green village
  • Reach via Dimapur (~3 hours)

Talk to our trade desk for Kohima-based Nagaland programmes at net rates.

Ready to plan this trip?

Frequently asked questions