Kohima War Cemetery

Kohima War Cemetery commemorates the soldiers of the Allied Forces who died in the 1944 Battle of Kohima — the turning point of the Burma Campaign. Maintained by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, it is a quiet, beautifully terraced site at the heart of Kohima town.

The Battle of Kohima (April–June 1944) is often called 'the Stalingrad of the East' — British and Indian forces stopped the Japanese advance into India here. The cemetery was created on the slopes of Garrison Hill, the actual battlefield, and holds 1,420 Commonwealth burials. The famous Kohima Epitaph reads: 'When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow we gave our today.'

Garrison Hill, central Kohima, Nagaland — about 1 km from the main bazaar and 5 minutes by car from most central hotels.

• 1,420 Commonwealth war graves on terraced lawns
• The Kohima Cross and the famous epitaph stone
• Two original tennis-court markings — site of fierce hand-to-hand fighting
• Beautifully landscaped grounds maintained year-round

• Quiet visit to read the headstones and epitaph
• Combine with the WWII Museum at Kisama
• Walk through the adjacent Kohima Cathedral and Garrison Hill

Open year-round during daylight hours. Mornings and late afternoons are best for photography and reflection. November–February is cool and dry.

Centrally located in Kohima — 5 minutes by taxi from most hotels. From Kisama (festival site), about 25 minutes by car.

Stay anywhere in central Kohima — the cemetery is within easy reach of all major hotels.

• Dress respectfully and keep voices low — this is an active memorial
• Photography is permitted; tripods generally not
• No entry fee; donations to the upkeep are welcome
• Allow at least 45 minutes for a meaningful visit