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Battle of Kohima

Kohima, Nagaland, India
The Kohima War Cemetery is a memorial dedicated to the soldiers of the Allied Forces who died in the Second World War in April 1944. This site is historically significant as it marks the exact location where the Japanese advance into India was halted. The battle was fought on the grounds of the the n Deputy Commissioner’s bungalow, specifically around the famous tennis court. Today, the cemetery is a beautifully terraced landscape maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. It contains 1,420 Commonwealth burials and a memorial for 917 Hindu and Sikh soldiers who were cremated. Walking through the rows of bronze plaques, one can feel the weight of history. The cemetery is famous for the Kohima Epitaph, which has become a global symbol of sacrifice. The peaceful environment, with its manicured lawns and vibrant flowers, contrasts sharply with the brutal hand-to-hand combat that took place here decades ago. It is a place of deep contemplation, offering a panoramic view of the entire Kohima town from its upper tiers. The site serves as a bridge between the past and the present, reminding visitors of the high cost of peace. It is considered one of the most well-maintained war cemeteries in the world and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Northeast India.

General information

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    Ideal Duration:

    1 to 2 Hours
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    Place Type:

    Historical War Memorial & Ce
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    Entry Fees:

    Free Entry: There is no fee to enter the cemetery. Donations to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission are welcome.

    Commercial Photography: May require prior permission from the CWGC office. ...
    Free Entry: There is no fee to enter the cemetery. Donations to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission are welcome.

    Commercial Photography: May require prior permission from the CWGC office.
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    Timing:

    Regular Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Monday to Saturday).

    Closed: Sundays and National Holidays.

    Ideal Visit Time: Late afternoon (3:00 PM) provides soft lighting for photos and a tranquil atmosphere. ...
    Regular Timings: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Monday to Saturday).

    Closed: Sundays and National Holidays.

    Ideal Visit Time: Late afternoon (3:00 PM) provides soft lighting for photos and a tranquil atmosphere.
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    Special Events:

    Anniversary of the Battle: Every April 4, special commemorative services are held.

    Remembrance Sunday: Held in November, where wreaths are laid by dignitaries and descendants of soldiers. ...
    Anniversary of the Battle: Every April 4, special commemorative services are held.

    Remembrance Sunday: Held in November, where wreaths are laid by dignitaries and descendants of soldiers.
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    Best Photo Spots:

    The Main Epitaph: The stone carving of the famous quote.

    The View from the Top Terrace: Captures the entire cemetery with the city in the background.

    The Tennis Court: The white lines against the green gras...
    The Main Epitaph: The stone carving of the famous quote.

    The View from the Top Terrace: Captures the entire cemetery with the city in the background.

    The Tennis Court: The white lines against the green grass provide a unique historical perspective.

Photo Gallery

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Darjeeling
Queen of Hills • Tea Gardens

Things To Do

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    Reflective Walk: Walk through the rows of graves and read the ages and regiments of the fallen.

    Photography: Capture the Cross of Sacrifice and the view of Kohima city.

    Epitaph Reading: Visit the 2nd Division Memorial to read the famous Kohima Epitaph.

    Tennis Court Visit: See the white lines marking the historic tennis court battleground.

    Upper Tier View: Climb to the top tier for the best panoramic view of the city.

    Visit the Cremation Memorial: Pay respects at the Hindu and Sikh memorial dome.

    Guide Interaction: Hire a local guide to hear detailed stories of the "VC" (Victoria Cross) winners of the battle. ...
    Reflective Walk: Walk through the rows of graves and read the ages and regiments of the fallen.

    Photography: Capture the Cross of Sacrifice and the view of Kohima city.

    Epitaph Reading: Visit the 2nd Division Memorial to read the famous Kohima Epitaph.

    Tennis Court Visit: See the white lines marking the historic tennis court battleground.

    Upper Tier View: Climb to the top tier for the best panoramic view of the city.

    Visit the Cremation Memorial: Pay respects at the Hindu and Sikh memorial dome.

    Guide Interaction: Hire a local guide to hear detailed stories of the "VC" (Victoria Cross) winners of the battle.

Resturants

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Information

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    Why Famous:

    The Turning Point: It is famous as the site of the Battle of Kohima, often called the "Stalingrad of the East.

    " The Famous Epitaph:

    It houses the world-renowned inscription: "When you go home, tell them of u...
    The Turning Point: It is famous as the site of the Battle of Kohima, often called the "Stalingrad of the East.

    " The Famous Epitaph:

    It houses the world-renowned inscription: "When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today. " This site is a major destination for international war veterans and history enthusiasts.
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    Architecture:

    The Terraced Memorial: The architecture follows the standard Commonwealth War Graves design but adapted to the steep slopes of Garrison Hill.

    Dimensions: The cemetery covers an area of approximately 5 acres. The central feature is the Cros...
    The Terraced Memorial: The architecture follows the standard Commonwealth War Graves design but adapted to the steep slopes of Garrison Hill.

    Dimensions: The cemetery covers an area of approximately 5 acres. The central feature is the Cross of Sacrifice, standing 15 feet tall on a stone base. The plots are arranged in terraces, connected by stone staircases. A unique architectural element is the preservation of the Tennis Court lines using white concrete, marking the site of the fiercest fighting. The entrance is marked by a massive stone pylon featuring the names of the units that fought here. The Hindu and Sikh memorial at the top is a stone chhattri or dome, which is 20 feet in diameter, blending Indian architectural styles into the British-designed cemetery.
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    How To Reach:

    By Air: Nearest airport is Dimapur (74 Kms).

    By Train: Dimapur Railway Station.

    By Road: It is located on the main NH-2 road passing through Kohima.

    By Local Transport: Bei...
    By Air: Nearest airport is Dimapur (74 Kms).

    By Train: Dimapur Railway Station.

    By Road: It is located on the main NH-2 road passing through Kohima.

    By Local Transport: Being in the center of the town, it is within walking distance from most central hotels or accessible by any local taxi.
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    Weather and Best Time to Visit:

    Winter Season: November to February for the best visibility.

    Early Morning: 9:30 AM for a quiet experience before the school tours arrive.

    Spring: March is ideal to see the cherry blossoms in the surroundin...
    Winter Season: November to February for the best visibility.

    Early Morning: 9:30 AM for a quiet experience before the school tours arrive.

    Spring: March is ideal to see the cherry blossoms in the surrounding area.
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    Near Tourist Places:

    Kohima State Museum (2 Km), Cathedral (2. 5 Km), Kohima Village (3 Km), Kisama Heritage Village (12 Km), Japfu Peak (15 Km), Dzukou Valley (25 Km), Khonoma (20 Km), Touphema Village (40 Km), Dzuleke (40 Km), Shilloi Lake (270 Km).

Tourism Tips

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    Health & Safety: The steps can be steep; elderly visitors should take it slow.

    Packing: An umbrella is useful as Kohima weather is unpredictable.

    Accommodation: Numerous guesthouses are available within 1 ...
    Health & Safety: The steps can be steep; elderly visitors should take it slow.

    Packing: An umbrella is useful as Kohima weather is unpredictable.

    Accommodation: Numerous guesthouses are available within 1 Km.

    Cash: ATMs are available just outside the main gate.

    Connectivity: Excellent mobile connectivity.

    Etiquette: Strictly no loud music or littering; it is a graveyard.

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