Do I need a permit for Nagaland?

Yes, Indian citizens need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Nagaland.

Is there a direct train to Kohima?

No, the nearest railhead is Dimapur, about 74 km away.

What is the best way to reach Kohima?

Fly to Dimapur and take a taxi to Kohima.

Is Kohima safe for tourists?

Yes, Kohima is generally safe for tourists during the day.

What is the distance from Dimapur to Kohima?

It is approximately 74 km and takes about 3 hours by road.

Kohima

Train Driving

Contai to Kohima

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Contai to Kohima covers approximately 1450 km. You must first travel to Kolkata or Howrah to catch a long-distance train to Dimapur. From Dimapur, you will take a shared taxi or bus to reach the hilly capital of Kohima. The route involves navigating the plains of West Bengal and Assam before ascending the Naga Hills. Expect a total travel time of 32 to 36 hours depending on connection efficiency. This route is best suited for travelers comfortable with multi-modal transit.

Total Distance: 1450 km by road, 1100 km air distance.

Fastest Way

Flight from Kolkata to Dimapur followed by a 3-hour taxi ride to Kohima.

Cheapest Way

Train from Howrah to Dimapur followed by a shared sumo taxi to Kohima.

Compare Contai to Kohima Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	28 hours	34 hours
Avg Price	1800 - 3000 INR	15000 - 20000 INR
Operator	Kamrup Express	Private Taxi
Route	Contai to Howrah, then Howrah to Dimapur Station.	NH 16 to Kolkata, then NH 27 through Siliguri and Guwahati.
Tip	Book your train tickets at least 60 days in advance for confirmed berths.	Ensure your vehicle has a valid permit for interstate travel in Northeast India.

Travel Tips

Inner Line Permit
Indian citizens require an ILP to enter Nagaland; apply online before your trip.
Local Transport
Shared taxis are the most reliable way to travel between Dimapur and Kohima.
Cash Availability
Carry sufficient cash as ATMs can be unreliable in remote areas.
Clothing
Pack layers as temperatures drop significantly in the evenings.
Language
English is widely spoken, but learning basic Nagamese phrases helps.

Safety Tips

Night Travel
Avoid driving on the Dimapur-Kohima highway after dark due to road conditions.
Health
Carry a basic medical kit including motion sickness medication for the hilly roads.
Local Customs
Respect local traditions and avoid public displays of affection.
Emergency Contacts
Keep the local police station numbers saved in your phone.