Kohima Camp, Nagaland, introduced by 'The Ultimate Travelling Camp' crosses into the realm of the unknown, exploring the unexplored. Situated in the exotic state of Nagaland, hidden in the north-eastern part of India, the camp showcases the cultural treasures of the Land of the Nagas, known as the last head hunters.
The picturesque state of Nagaland is bound by Assam in the west; Myanmar in the east; Arunachal Pradesh in the north and Manipur in the south, forming a part of what are known as the Seven Sisters, the seven states of north-east India, full of rolling hills and verdant rain forests. The Naga people, comprising 16 proud tribes were once fearsome warriors and head hunters who have retained much of their traditional and cultural heritage. This is reflected in their elaborate costumes and ritualistic headdresses which incorporate tiger tusks bear skins, hornbill feathers and other symbolic accoutrements.
Kohima Camp coincides with the ten-day Hornbill Festival, an annual mélange of cultural displays from all 16 tribes of Nagaland, showcasing their rich heritage in this colorful pageant. Each day brings forth their ‘vibrant’ performances, crafts, sports like archery and wrestling, food fairs, games and religious ceremonies.
At Kohima Camp, Nagaland, relax in individually designed tents, with en-suite bathrooms, crisp linen and the services of your very own butler. Enjoy a drink of the local rice beer, savor delicious tribal recipes and participate in celebrations of the unique Hornbill Festival.
Kohima Camp is located in a region that is predominantly occupied by the Angami Tribe, one of the major tribes of the 16 tribes of Nagaland. Historically warriors, these tribes spent much of their time in warfare with the other tribes and villages. The inter-village feuds came to an end in 1879 with the annexation of their territory by the British and their primitive religion, Animism, was replaced by Christianity, as the majority of the Angamis changed their faith. Another interesting facet of this warrior clan is that they are also innovative cultivators, an example being the 20 different strains of rice developed by them to suit variations in temperature and landscape.
Day One: Arrive at Dimapur * Transfer and check in at Kohima Camp, Nagaland
This afternoon, following your arrival into Dimapur, you will be greeted by our representative and driven to Kohima Camp, Nagaland (03hours).
On your arrival at the camp, located at the foothills of the gigantic Japfu Mountain, soak in the serenity of the surroundings as you are accorded the traditional welcome of the tribes of Nagaland. You will then be accompanied to your superlative luxury tent, where the check-in formalities will be completed by our Guest Relations hostess.
Spend the evening relaxing in the peaceful environs of the camp. Enjoy a drink by the campfire followed by a feast skillfully created by our Chef, as you sit down to your first night’s dinner in the lap of nature and luxury.
Overnight at Kohima Camp, Nagaland
Day Two: Visit the spectacular Hornbill Festival
After a leisurely breakfast, drive to the Kisama village for the spectacular Hornbill Festival. Revel in this marvelous riot of color as you watch all 16 tribes of Nagaland show off the rich fare of diverse cultures and traditional arts that is Nagaland. You can witness the attire, folk music and dance forms, headgear, cuisines, paintings, handicrafts, and other intricacies of the varied tribes and sub-tribes of the state.
The highlight of the festival is not only the music and dance, whether traditional or contemporary; but also the display of exquisite handicraft and handloom, which is bound to leave you enchanted. Adding to the excitement is a motor rally, traditional sports like wrestling and archery, a literary fest, and fun events like climbing a greased bamboo pole or chilli eating contests.
Having built up an appetite, you return to camp for a sumptuous lunch after which you can choose to relax in its serene surroundings.
In the evening, you have the option of returning to the festivities of the Hornbill festival, in the capital city, Kohima. Get into the spirit of the festival as you enjoy the music of one of the many talented Naga rock bands or scour the night bazaar for local artefacts and relish some Naga delicacies. Be inspired by a fashion show featuring traditional tribal wear as well as contemporary designs or be entertained at the Miss Nagaland contest.
Return to the luxurious comfort of your camp for dinner and a well -deserved rest.
Overnight at Kohima Camp, Nagaland
Day Three: Visit to the Hornbill Festival and explore the quaint Kigwema village of the Angami tribe
After breakfast this morning head out for your last day at the Hornbill festival. Enjoy the festivities with the tribes as they enthrall with their distinct costumes and perform traditional Naga dances and ceremonies.
Following lunch, if a little relaxation is in order, spend the afternoon at leisure in the tranquility of the camp. Or you may wish to explore the charming Kigwema village, just a few kilometers drive away.
Kigwema is a quaint old village of the Angami tribe. Literally ‘inheritance of the house’, it is believed that many other Angami villages originated from here. In 1944, the Japanese forces came to Kigwema on their way to attack Kohima, and were provided shelter by the villagers. Walk through the lanes of the village seeing the traditional houses with their impressive wooden pillars, arriving at a local house to experience the Angami way of life over a cup of traditional tea.
Later this evening, you have the option to enjoy the cultural festivities in Kohima for the last time. Return to the camp sated from the exhilarating experience at the festival, with memories to last a lifetime!
At dinner sit back and reflect on the Naga way of life whilst the chef indulges you in an exquisite meal.
Overnight at Kohima Camp, Nagaland
Day Four: Excursion to Kohima and village Khonoma
Today you will explore the treasures of Kohima, the capital of Nagaland. Kohima played a key role in World War II, where the Naga tribes fought alongside Allied forces against Japan on the tennis court of the British Deputy Commissioner’s house. Visit the beautiful war cemetery built on a terraced hillside for the brave hearts that died in the war and visit a private museum that holds some of the best artifacts from World War II. From here, continue to the Angami village of Khonoma where you'll relish a local lunch. Admire the traditional architecture of carved gateways and surrounding stone walls, visit morungs and participate in indigenous games like wrestling with the local warriors.
Spend the evening in the comfort of your camp as your valet fixes you a sun downer before enjoying the delicacies prepared for dinner.
Overnight at Kohima Camp, Nagaland
Day Five: Visit to the Hornbill Festival and revel in the rustic charm of the Jakhama village
This morning, after breakfast the excitement continues as you revisit the Hornbill festival where you spend the rest of the morning immersing yourself in this vibrant extravaganza.
In the afternoon, following a leisurely lunch, revel in your luxurious surroundings at the camp as you enjoy a book, play a game of chess or go for a stroll. Or if you are still keen to further immerse yourself in the Naga culture, you may choose to visit the village of Jakhama, 5kms drive from the camp. The name Jakhama is derived from ‘Mejakhama’ which means 'laying resistance against intruders'. The village was the first line of defense against the neighboring Manipur kingship. Jakhama's prosperous houses, built in unique styles and designs, are a sight to behold. Visit the great granaries where families can store grains for years. End your visit in high spirits with a glass of the local rice beer called ‘khie’.
In the evening you can choose to head back to Kohima to catch more of the night events before returning to the comfort of the camp for a lavish dinner.
Overnight at Kohima Camp, Nagaland
Day Six: Bid farewell to the Mystic Land of the Nagas
Today you bid farewell to the breathtaking terrain of Nagaland. After breakfast, you will be driven back to Dimapur airport with the assistance of our representative for your onward flight.
