Nagaland's hill capital: Naga heritage, warrior-village traditions, Second World War history and the famous Hornbill Festival every December.
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Every traveller is different. Browse by style, then let the planner mix them into a day-by-day plan.
The famous must-sees
Life-size houses of Nagaland's tribes and the venue of the Hornbill Festival.
culture · about 3 hrs · best in the morningMoving memorial that includes the site of the Battle of the Tennis Court.
culture · about 1 hr · best in the morningAsia's first green village and a warrior-past settlement with stone terraces. Local guide about Rs 500.
culture · about 3 hrs · best in the afternoonSeasonal-flower valley trek with a feeling of being at the edge of the world.
adventure · about 8 hrs · best in the morningWeapons, textiles and ornaments of the Naga tribes.
culture · about 1.5 hrs · best in the afternoonSmoked pork, bamboo-shoot dishes, axone and fiery king chilli.
food · about 2 hrs · best in the eveningLarge modern church and hill viewpoint over the capital and surrounding hills.
spiritual · about 1 hr · best in the morningQuieter, still easy to reach
Hike to one of Nagaland's highest peaks and the world's tallest rhododendron tree, with a local guide.
adventure · about 4 hrs · best in the morningCommunity-run village with traditional huts, crafts and homestay food near Kohima.
culture · about 2 hrs · best in the afternoonSmall zoo and forest garden with birds and hill views above the city.
nature · about 1.5 hrs · best in the afternoonMountain villages where women sell and make textiles and organic foods; ask locally first.
culture · about 3 hrs · best in the afternoonAnnual tribal festival with dances, food and crafts, held in early December.
culture · about 6 hrsFood, markets, crafts and people
Try smoked pork with bamboo shoot, fermented soybean (axone), local greens and herbs.
food · about 2 hrs · best in the afternoonFresh forest produce, dried fish, snails, herbs and local spices sold by village women.
shopping · about 1.5 hrs · best in the morningOvernight in a village home with Angami hosts, traditional cooking and storytelling.
culture · about 3 hrs · best in the eveningShawls, jewellery and woodwork from Naga tribes sold in small shops and at the state emporium.
shopping · about 1.5 hrs · best in the afternoonSee how locals grow tea, passion fruit, king chilli and other produce in hill gardens.
food · about 2 hrs · best in the morningSpots most visitors miss
Traditional Angami village on a hillside with old stone steps and carved gateways.
culture · about 2 hrs · best in the afternoonForest sanctuary with birds and hill views, close to Kohima but seldom visited.
nature · about 3 hrs · best in the morningShort trek to a peak with wide hill views; best with a local guide.
adventure · about 4 hrs · best in the morningSmall village with stone terraces, traditional houses and quiet lanes.
culture · about 2 hrs · best in the afternoonEntry fees and times are approximate, per adult, and change often — we confirm everything before you book. Last reviewed November 2026.
A classic Naga dish, rich, smoky and spicy.
Fermented soybean with a strong aroma, cooked with pork or fish.
Famously hot chilli used in chutneys and curries.
Traditional tribal rice drink, served during festivals and community events.
Handwoven shawls with bold tribal patterns, sold at local markets.
Beads, wooden carvings and bamboo items made by local artisans.
Dances, food and tribal culture held every early December.
From the stalls locals queue at to the tables critics travel for — chosen for flavour, character and a warm welcome.
Try Seasonal fruit, local snacks; see smoked meats, bamboo shoot, axone (fermented soybean) and king chillies
Indoor market run largely by women vendors; mornings are busiest and freshest.
₹50–150Map
Try Look rather than taste: silkworms, hornet larvae, snails and frogs sold as delicacies
Fascinating but not for squeamish or strictly veg travellers; ask before taking photos.
Free to browseMap
Try Smoked pork with bamboo shoot, axone pork or chicken; Naga thali with rice, boiled greens and chutney (veg option)
Lunch is the main meal and finishes by mid-afternoon; ask for a 'veg thali' with boiled vegetables and dal.
₹150–300Map
Try Milk tea (veg), buns and cakes (veg)
Good rest stop before visiting the War Cemetery nearby.
₹40–100Map
Trail stops, hours and prices are approximate and stalls move — check locally. Pronunciations are simplified guides. Last reviewed 9 November 2026.
Street food, markets and humble legends
A humble upstairs dining room with a short menu of traditional Naga dishes; the thalis are the easiest way to try several at once.
Order Smoked pork with axone; smoked pork with anishi; Naga thali
Traditional Naga plates in a homely setting, praised for authentic flavours and friendly service.
Order Pork thali with dried bamboo shoot and axone; seasonal chicken thali with perilla
A market-area bistro serving traditional Naga thalis, convenient while exploring the town centre.
Order Smoked pork with axone thali
Acclaimed cafés and celebrated mid-range tables
A popular contemporary café with sweeping views over Kohima, mixing Naga and continental food.
Order Pork momos; coffee
A stylish room with outdoor seating and city views and a wide, modern menu that reflects Kohima's young café culture.
Order Korean fried chicken wings; passion-fruit iced tea
A local ice-cream brand with a Naga-warrior logo, a fun sweet stop for families.
Order Coconut ice cream; coco dream popsicle
Award-winning tables, tasting menus and grand hotel dining
Dining in a restored British-era bungalow filled with Naga artefacts, the most atmospheric table in Kohima. Book ahead, especially in wedding season and Hornbill week.
Order Smoked meats; Naga set meal
Restaurants change hours, menus and prices often; awards are as published at the time of checking. Approximate — verify before you go. Last reviewed 9 November 2026. All our food picks
Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, near Kohima, India · 1–10 December (fixed every year)
Nagaland's flagship celebration brings sixteen Naga tribes together for dance, folk songs, warrior displays, handicrafts and food stalls, with an evening rock festival.
Tip: Book Kohima stays six months ahead; some visitors prefer homestays in nearby villages.
Local tip: For the Hornbill Festival, book accommodation months ahead and apply for permits early.
Build a free itinerary in a minute, or let our team plan it all — stays, transport and a clear price.
