Dimapur is a bustling city located in the Northeastern state of Nagaland. Dimapur stands tall as the commercial hub and largest city in the state. Known for its bustling markets, rich history, and vibrant culture, Dimapur offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern developments.

From exploring ancient ruins to immersing in the natural beauty of reserve forests, the city offers a wide range of experiences to enchant visitors. Whether you want to indulge in delightful shopping experiences or you seek tranquility in serene parks or adventure in wildlife sanctuaries, Dimapur has something for everyone.

Brief History of Dimapur

The name Dimapur originates from the Kachari dialect. It combines the words ‘di’ meaning river, ‘ma’ meaning great or big, and ‘pur’ meaning city, collectively representing ‘the city near the great river’.

Dimapur boasts a significant historical legacy that dates back centuries. The ancient Kachari kingdom once thrived in this region, leaving behind intriguing remnants of its glorious past. The ruins of Dimasa Kachari Kingdom, located on the banks of the Dhansiri River, are a testimony to the rich historical heritage of the city. These ruins, adorned with intricate carvings and sculptures, provide a glimpse into the architectural marvels of a bygone era.

During World War II, Dimapur emerged as a significant battleground where British India and Imperial Japan clashed. The Japanese forces, in their quest, laid a siege on Kohima, a mere distance away. However, Dimapur played a crucial role as the center of operations for the Allied forces.

It served as a vital hub for the transportation of reinforcements, both by rail and road, aiding in the decisive push against the Japanese. The battle for Kohima, situated approximately 77 kilometers from Dimapur, is widely recognized as the pivotal moment that marked the turning point in the Japanese retreat from South East Asia.

Location

Situated in the southwestern part of Nagaland, Dimapur is strategically located near the borders of Assam on the banks of the Dhansiri River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra River. Surrounded by lush green hills and picturesque landscapes, the city serves as a gateway to the beautiful state of Nagaland. With its well-connected transport network, Dimapur offers easy accessibility to travelers from various parts of the country.

Shopping in Dimapur

Dimapur is a shopaholic’s haven, offering a plethora of shopping options to satisfy every taste. From bustling markets to modern shopping complexes, the city has it all. Apart from the famous Hong Kong Market, explore the bustling markets like New Market and GS Road Market, where you can find an assortment of traditional handicrafts, textiles, fashion accessories, and local produce.

Top Things to Do & Places to See

Dimasa Kachari Ruins

The Dimasa Kachari Ruins in Dimapur, Nagaland, are remnants of the ancient Dimasa Kachari Kingdom. These mushroom-domed pillars hold mystery and charm, with some standing strong while others have crumbled. Believed to have been used for a unique chess-like game, these ruins are a cherished part of the region’s heritage, promoted by the state tourism department. While some pillars proudly stand tall, others have succumbed to the ravages of time, crumbling away.

Green Park

Green Park is a delightful destination for relaxation and leisure. This captivating tourist attraction draws visitors from near and far, including locals from the surrounding villages. As the name implies, the park boasts lush greenery and is nestled within the State Horticulture Nursery. It offers a host of appealing features, including a restaurant, shaded resting areas, boating facilities, and more. Whether you seek tranquility or a rejuvenating experience, Green Park is the perfect place to unwind and revel in the beauty of nature.

NEZCC (Stone Sculpture Garden)

Dive into the world of art and culture at the Northeast Zone Cultural Centre’s Stone Sculpture Garden. Marvel at the exquisite stone sculptures that depict the region’s rich heritage and traditions. The beautifully landscaped garden also hosts cultural events and exhibitions and weddings, offering a glimpse into the diverse cultural tapestry of the Northeast

Hong Kong Market

Hong Kong Market, located in the city center, is a renowned marketplace for affordable foreign goods. It offers a wide selection of clothing for all ages and occasions. Visitors flock to this popular market for its reasonable prices and variety of items, including accessories and gadgets imported from Thailand and Myanmar. Over the years, it has not only become a shopping hub but also a popular tourist destination, with every traveler aiming to visit this market at least once during their tour.

Diezephe Craft Village

Diezephe Craft Village, located just 13 km from Dimapur, is a haven for handicrafts and handloom enthusiasts. Easily accessible via tourist taxis and state transport buses, this village not only showcases exquisite artworks but also provides an opportunity for visitors to witness the creative process behind them. Managed by the Nagaland Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Limited, the craft village has played a pivotal role in nurturing the skills of the villagers and promoting their art on a global scale. The village also hosts regular workshops, benefiting local weavers and attracting participants from across the region.

Nagaland Science Centre

Located in a prime location behind the Naga Shopping Arcade, Nagaland Science Centre holds the distinction of being the first of its kind in the state. Spanning an expansive area of 3 acres, this center provides a captivating and enriching experience for visitors of all ages. Through interactive exhibits, hands-on experiments, and engaging displays, Nagaland Science Centre offers a unique opportunity to delve into the marvels of science and technology. Whether you’re exploring with family or friends, immerse yourself in the wonders of knowledge,

Noune Resort

Located in Seithekema A Village, Dimapur, just 14.1 km from the city, Noune Resort provides an idyllic retreat for those seeking tranquility and seclusion away from bustling city life. Surrounded by lush jungles, this beautiful resort offers a refreshing escape where machines and motors are absent, allowing guests to truly unwind. The resort features excellent rooms equipped with modern amenities and a dedicated staff that provides attentive service. One of the highlights is the opportunity to witness angling and boating activities directly from the balcony, as the sun illuminates the surroundings.

Nagaland Zoological Park

Nagaland Zoological Park, situated in the Dimapur district, is a prime destination for experiencing the diverse flora and fauna of Nagaland. Regarded as one of the top family-friendly attractions in Dimapur, this park is a haven for birdwatchers as well. With a focus on promoting awareness, education, and recreation, Nagaland Zoological Park houses a remarkable collection of over 300 individuals from 40 different bird and animal species. The park not only provides an opportunity for visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature but also emphasizes nature education and the conservation of biodiversity. Its captivating array of bird and animal species entices numerous tourists, making it a must-visit location.

Rangapahar Reserve Forest

Located in Dimapur, Nagaland, the Rangapahar Reserve Forest stands as a prominent tourist destination. This enchanting forest is renowned for its rich wildlife and abundance of medicinal plants, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike. The forest boasts a diverse array of bird species, drawing avid birdwatchers to its captivating landscapes. The reserve forest serves as a sanctuary for various animals, including bears, deer, chitals, and wild goats, among others. Notably, it also plays a crucial role in preserving endangered species that are rarely found elsewhere and are on the brink of extinction.

Best Time to Vist

The best time to explore Dimapur is from October to March. During this time, the city experiences pleasant weather with cool temperatures and refreshing breezes. Additionally, this season is not marked by heavy rainfall, making it an ideal time to visit and enjoy all that it has to offer.

How to Get There

By Train

Dimapur is the only city in Nagaland to have a railway station. This railway station is located on the main line of the North East Frontier Railway, providing excellent connectivity. Dimapur enjoys seamless railway connections to Guwahati, which in turn is well connected to all major cities across India.

By Air

Dimapur is also the only city in Nagaland with its own airport, situated approximately 4 kilometers away from the city center. The Dimapur airport serves as a vital transportation hub, offering regular flights to and from major cities like Kolkata, Guwahati, and Imphal.

By Road

Dimapur enjoys excellent road connectivity with all the major cities in the northeastern region of India. Regular state transport buses ply between Dimapur and various cities in the neighboring states, ensuring convenient travel options. The city is well connected by National Highway 39, which connects Dimapur to Kohima, Imphal, and the Myanmar border at Moreh. Additionally, NH 36 originates from the city, linking it to Doboka, and further connecting to Guwahati via NH 37. These well-maintained highways make traveling a smooth and hassle-free experience.

As per the notification from the Office of the Deputy Commissioner, it is now mandatory for all non-indigenous individuals entering the District to possess an Inner Line Permit (ILP). However, this requirement does not apply to individuals who are merely transiting through the district to other states, provided they have a valid ticket. (Details on how to obtain an ILP are discussed in one of our earlier articles)