Why Kohima, Asia’s Second Largest Village, Should Be on Your Travel List

In the enchanting land of **Nagaland**, I found myself immersed in the vibrant culture and rich history of **Kohima**, the capital city. My days here were nothing short of magical, each moment filled with discovery. Formed in the **18th century**, Kohima is now the second-largest city in the state, a transformation that began when it was originally known as **Kewhira**. The name changed to Kohima in 1878, following the establishment of a British post in the Naga Hills, forever marking its significance on the map.

I was filled with excitement at the thought of exploring this remarkable hamlet—Asia’s second-largest village. The promise of experiencing the captivating **Naga culture** filled me with a sense of adventure. It was a journey I had eagerly anticipated, and now I was finally here. During my visit, I explored only two cities—**Dimapur** and **Kohima**—which were conveniently set apart by just a forty-minute drive. As I transitioned from Dimapur to Kohima, the landscape shifted dramatically, revealing the stunning natural beauty of the region. The lush hillsides and vibrant local life beckoned me to uncover the traditions and stories that define this unique place.

Every corner of Kohima seemed to hold a piece of history, and I was eager to dive into the local customs and rituals that make this city so special. Each day brought new adventures and insights into the life of the Nagas, and I couldn’t wait to share my experiences with others. Kohima was more than just a destination; it was a journey into the heart of a culture that thrives in the shadow of breathtaking hills. My journey through **Nagaland** began on a remarkable note as I spent my first three days attending the **second peace convention** in **Dimapur**.

The atmosphere was charged with purpose as tribal chiefs from across the region gathered, their voices echoing concerns about employment issues and political control. It was a profound opportunity to interact with some of the descendants of Nagaland’s ancient tribes, particularly the **Zemes**. The **Zeliang** of Nagaland and the **Zeliangrong** of Manipur were two prominent sub-tribes. Even today, many tribes in Nagaland still speak the **Zeme Naga dialect**, a beautiful language that sadly teeters on the brink of endangerment.

Over the course of two days, I immersed myself in the rich culture of the tribes, gaining insight into their struggles, aspirations, and way of life. There’s something unparalleled about delving into a region’s history and understanding the roots of its traditions and the changes that have unfolded over time. By the third day, I felt ready to explore the sights and sounds of the city itself. As I strolled down the avenue lined with lush tropical fruit trees, the enticing aroma of chai wafted from a nearby tea vendor’s stall, calling me closer. I couldn’t resist sampling the exotic fruits that adorned the stands.

The sweet taste of freshly picked bananas and pineapples danced on my palate, a delightful introduction to the local flavours. **Kohima**, the capital city, felt like a peaceful haven, with friendly locals who greeted me with smiles and spoke English effortlessly. I learned that **Christmas** is an ideal time to visit when the forested ridges and hilltops come alive in celebration. In the company of an elderly guide, we ventured into one of the nearby villages. He led us to an incredible vantage point that offered a bird’s eye view of **Bara Basti**. From this lofty perch, I could see the sprawling landscape of Kohima laid out before me, with countless hut-like homes adorned with slanted earthen roofs. It was a sight to behold, capturing the essence of rural life in this enchanting region.

After soaking in the view, we descended into the village and wandered through the local market, where vibrant handlooms and captivating tribal handicrafts showcased the artistry of the people. The delightful collection was so impressive that I couldn’t resist picking up a few pieces as souvenirs. Next on my agenda was the **Kohima Museum**, a treasure trove for history enthusiasts. As I explored the preserved artefacts, each one whispered stories of Nagaland’s past in its purest form. I spent about thirty minutes there, lost in the rich tapestry of history before heading to the renowned **Catholic Cathedral Church**, perched atop **Arudara Hill**.

Arriving at the church around **1 PM**, I was struck by the sight of over **1,500 parishioners** from various tribes and cultural backgrounds coming together in worship. The church stands as a beacon of unity, welcoming everyone with open arms and shared reverence. Its unique architecture, reminiscent of a traditional Naga house, complemented its 19th-century pointed design, making it a marvel of efficiency and beauty, with space cleverly utilised for business and residential purposes. Most profoundly, this cathedral serves as a place of prayer for the victims of WWII, particularly the **Japanese soldiers** who fought in the **Battle of Kohima**.

After paying my respects at the church, I made my way to the **Kohima War Cemetery**, my final stop for the day. As I walked among the graves, I was overwhelmed with emotions—pride, sadness, and gratitude swirled within me. One grave bore the inscription: “When you go home, tell them of us and say for your tomorrow, we gave our today.” This battle, which took place between **April 4 and June 22, 1944**, marked a pivotal moment in history, as Indian soldiers bravely halted the advancing Japanese forces.

Walking past another grave, I read the poignant words: “Sleep on beloved, your task is done, we will meet again in our eternal home.” The cemetery served as a sombre reminder of the sacrifices made to protect the freedoms we enjoy today. The **Battle of Kohima** has been etched in history as one of the greatest encounters during British rule, and visiting the cemetery filled me with deep gratitude for the warriors who had given their all. As my time in **Kohima** came to a close, I felt a sense of awe at the experiences I had gathered. The following day, I set off to explore the lush countryside of the Northeast, enchanted by the beauty of the pineapple and banana plantations that greeted me. Each moment spent in Nagaland had woven a rich tapestry of memories, one that I would carry with me long after I left this extraordinary land.

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