In this guide
Nagaland is one of India's most culturally distinct states, and Kohima, its capital, is the gateway. Between a moving war memorial, a world-famous festival, and a pioneering conservation village next door, it makes a rich, meaningful trip — especially for travellers curious about the Northeast's many Indigenous cultures.
The Hornbill Festival
Nagaland's signature event, the Hornbill Festival, runs every year from 1 to 10 December at the Kisama Heritage Village, about 12 km from Kohima. Billed the "Festival of Festivals", it brings together all of Nagaland's major tribes for music, dance, food, crafts, indigenous games and morungs (traditional houses) — a spectacular, if crowded, cultural immersion. Book flights and stays months ahead if you're going for it.
Kohima War Cemetery
In the heart of the city, the Kohima War Cemetery honours the soldiers who died in the Battle of Kohima (1944) — a brutal turning point of the Second World War in Asia (later voted "Britain's Greatest Battle"). Immaculately kept on the terraced slope where the fighting raged, with its famous epitaph, it's a place for quiet reflection.
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Plan My Trip →Khonoma — India's first green village
About 20 km from Kohima, the Angami village of Khonoma is India's first "green village": after a village-wide ban on hunting and logging, it created the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary (protecting the rare Blyth's tragopan). With its terraced rice fields, stone paths, warrior history and homestays, it's a model of community-led conservation and a wonderful, peaceful overnight.
Permits
Indian citizens (non-residents of the state) need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Nagaland (available online or on arrival); foreign nationals must register as required. Arrange this before you travel.
Best time to visit
October to May for pleasant weather; early December if you want the Hornbill Festival (expect crowds and higher prices). The nearby Dzukou Valley trek is best in its own seasons.
How to reach
The usual approach is to fly to Dimapur (Nagaland's airport/railhead) and drive up to Kohima (a few hours); Guwahati is the larger regional hub. Shared and private cabs run the routes.
Where to stay
Kohima has hotels and guesthouses; Khonoma is best experienced as a homestay. During Hornbill, many visitors stay in tourist camps or homestays booked far in advance.
Costs (indicative)
Affordable outside festival season, when Kohima prices surge. Homestays are great value and support the community.
Responsible travel
Naga culture is living heritage, not a photo-op — ask before photographing people and rituals, follow village rules at Khonoma, respect the war cemetery's solemnity, and support homestays, guides and local artisans.
FAQ
When is the Hornbill Festival?
Every year from 1 to 10 December at Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima. Book well ahead — it's Nagaland's busiest period.
Do I need a permit for Nagaland?
Yes — Indian travellers need an Inner Line Permit (ILP); foreign nationals must register as required. Arrange it before you go.
Written by PlanMyOffbeat Team
Independent, verification-first travel guides for offbeat trips.
