KOHIMA DIARIES

 

Places I visited in Kohima, Nagaland

Kohima can be visited throughout the year. Since most visitors prefer to visit during the Hornbill Festival (1-10 December), it is highly recommended to reserve accommodation in advance during the peak season. Greener Pastures conducts tailored tours to the hornbill festival which is often included with other interesting aspects of nearby areas. The Sekrenyi Festival of the Angami tribe in February is also a good time to experience the local culture. Visiting Kohima for the Dzukou valley trek is suitable during the months of June to October.

World War II Memorial, considered as the main landmark of Kohima, is situated at the heart of the town and is a reminder of the Battle of Kohima in 1944 and the sacrifices made by the valiant British and Indian defenders against the invading Japanese forces. Many families of martyrs from Britain still visit to pay their homage to the brave soldiers. This memorial and its beautiful lawns are well maintained by the armed forces. It is a peaceful spot in the middle of the busy town. It is also well known for its citation, “When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today”.

Mary Help of Christian Cathedral

The remarkable architecture of the church perched on a hill makes it exclusive, its red Morung style roof visible through blanket of fog from almost every corner of Kohima. The architecture blends the style and intricacy of traditional elements, the façade resembling a Naga House, Morung styled. The construction was funded by Japan in memory of Japanese soldiers who lost their lives in Battle of Kohima. The wood carved crucifix at a height of 16ft is one of the tallest in Asia. The church is marked with four gates heading towards all four directions.

State Museum is a very informative centre which showcases the life and culture of the sixteen Naga tribes that reside in Nagaland. Dioramas beautifully exhibit the traditional lifestyle of the people. The museum also exhibits tribal artifacts such as folk art, crafts, traditional dress, ornaments and as well as indigenous weapons and arms. The museum is well curated, the exhibits are well lit and beautifully presented. The museum may be small but is worth a visit.

Dzukou Valley

The valley of rolling hills and treeless sweep of hillocks is not longer a secret and has become a prominent bucket list destination in Nagaland. For all the right reasons, the valley will leave you in awe with its eccentric geosyncline landscape. The valley resides above the clouds and is popularly known as “Valley of Flowers of North-East”. As the spring advances through summer and monsoons, the valley is dotted with flower blooms. The rare Dzukou Lily makes its godly presence amidst the dwarf bamboos spread across the crust of the hillocks.