Kohima (Nagaland)

Easiest way to get there: Fly to Dimapur Airport and then drive down 74 kms to Kohima OR Shillong to Kohima, by road.

TO DO:  Does bhut jolokia ring a bell? Well, the world’s spiciest chilli hails from the state of Nagaland. Hence our next pick on our trip to the north east is Kohima,the capital of Nagaland.  To begin your adventures in this hilly town, one must visit the Japanese cathedral, known to have the tallest crucifix (at 16ft) of Asia, the cathedral of reconciliation which is the church of the bishop of diocese of Kohima.  An architectural wonder, it’s a reminder of the Japanese soldiers who lost their lives fighting the Kohima battle during World War II.

The town is also known to have Asia’s second largest village ‘Bara Basti’ which literally translates into the big village where you can get your local food fix. Nagaland is known for its pineapples from a place called Ghaspani, the sweetest you will ever taste. Unexplored uptil now, the place has a lot to offer and to contribute to your experiences as a traveler.

Other than the aforementioned, do not miss the War Cemetery of the 2nd British Division of Allied Forces situated on the beautiful Garisson hills and the Keeda(Insect) Bazaar, where you could shop  a pocketful of creepy crawlies for your dinner later that night.
The Hornbill Festival: If you’re venturing into city during the colder months of the year, you’ll be lucky to witness the Hornbill festival of Nagaland that takes place during the first week of December. The Naga heritage village, where the festival is celebrated is an initiative that brings together 16 officially recognized Naga tribes.  The complex makes up for houses of each tribe, representing the design, the history and culture of each. This is further elaborately glorified when songs and dances of those tribes make up for the festivities, with stalls offering the various cuisines and food from the tribes.

One last stop: For the beer lovers, do not miss this opportunity to try Zutho, the traditional rice beer from the state.