Dimapur – The Gateway to Nagaland
Considered as one of the fastest-growing cities of Nagaland, Dimapur is a must-visit tourist destination, mainly due to its natural beauty. The excitement of discovering waterfalls, historical monuments, and other tourist spots here is simply unmatchable.
Dimapur is a lively city located in the northeastern state of Nagaland, India. It is one of the largest cities in the state and serves as a major hub for trade and commerce. Dimapur is known for its rich history and cultural diversity, with many communities living together in harmony. The city has a unique charm, blending traditional Naga culture with modern influences.
Visitors to Dimapur can explore its vibrant markets, where local crafts, clothes, and fresh produce are sold. The city is also home to several historical sites, including the ancient ruins of the Kachari Kingdom, which showcase its past glory. The people of Dimapur are warm and welcoming, making it a great place to experience the culture of Nagaland.
Dimapur is also well-connected, with an airport and railway station, making it easy for travelers to visit. The city's mix of history, culture, and modernity makes it a fascinating destination for anyone looking to explore the northeastern part of India. Whether you're interested in history, shopping, or simply enjoying the local cuisine, Dimapur has something to offer everyone.
History of Dimapur
The city of Dimapur is situated on the banks of the Dhansiri river which is often referred to as Dong-Siri meaning a peaceful river. Since the beginning, this city is described as the Brick City by the European Scholars as well as by the Ahoms.
Historically, Dimapur was considered to be the ancient capital of Dimasa Kachari Community which was considered as a powerful race, based in Northeastern India.
It is even believed that the seat of the capital of Dimapur Kingdom was majorly enclosed by a brick wall that was four feet wide and about sixteen feet in its height.
World War 2
During World War 2, Dimapur was considered the centre of action between British India and Imperial Japan. It is believed that many Jain families came to Kohima from other parts of the country and settled there in the 1800s; however, all of them had to move to Dimapur in 1944 because of the Japanese invasion that happened in World War 2. Some of the prominent names of Jain families among them were Phulchand Sethi, Udayram Chabra, Mangilal Chabra, Phulchand Binaykia, Jethmal Sethi, Ramchandra Sethi, Bhajanlal Sethi, Kanhaiyal Sethi, and many others.
Places To Visit In Dimapur
1. The Triple Falls
Situated in the Seithekima village, these waterfalls are a true wonder of nature. The water gushes down from a height of 280 feet making a natural pool of turquoise water. This area is particularly maintained by the tourism department of Nagaland and is a must-visit for any nature lover.
2. Kachari Ruins
These ruins are renowned for the presence of various monoliths. The scattered remains of temples that are found here are considered to be that of ancient temples and embankments.
3. Rangapahar Reserve Forest
This is considered to be one of the most famous places to explore wildlife. The reserve is mainly famous for its wide variety of plants and medicines. The variety of birds which you get to see here is simply amazing.
4. Nagaland Science Centre
Now, this is another popular tourist attraction where you get to explore a very wide range of plants and medicines; a strong reason why this place attracts a great number of tourists on an annual basis.
Things to Do in Dimapur
- Explore the ancient Kachari Ruins and learn about the Kachari Kingdom.
- Visit Triple Falls and Chumukedima Waterfalls for nature’s beauty.
- Shop for Naga handicrafts and souvenirs at Ruzaphema Market.
- Experience local tribal life at Diezephe Craft Village.
- Enjoy wildlife spotting at Nagaland Zoological Park.
- Taste delicious Naga cuisine, including smoked pork and bamboo shoot dishes.
Best Time to Visit Dimapur
- October to April - Best weather for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
- May to September - Monsoon season, making waterfalls even more beautiful but with occasional heavy rains.
- December - Ideal for experiencing Naga festivals and cultural events.
How to Reach Dimapur
Dimapur is an intriguing place to visit along with your loved ones. It is situated at a distance of about 2,194, 3,309, 1,295, 3,241 km from Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Bengaluru respectively. Here is how you can travel to Dimapur using the following means of transportation.
By Air
Dimapur has its own airport under the same name, and its IATA code is DMU. This airport was built during WW II and is considered to be the only civil airport in the entire northeastern section of our country’s geography. To reach here, you can take connecting flights from Guwahati or Kolkata. Once you deboard at the airport, consider taking a cab to reach your respective destination.
By Train
If you are planning to visit Dimapur by train, then you will need to deboard at the Dimapur Railway Station. It is fairly well connected with nearby regions with good train connectivity. Once you get off the station, consider taking a cab or some other means of local transportation to reach your destination.
By Road
You can plan on booking interstate or private buses to travel here from nearby regions. The roads connecting Dimapur to nearby regions are well maintained, so it shouldn’t be too difficult to travel here. If travelling by bus doesn’t suit you, then you can also hire a cab or self-drive.
- From Guwahati - 292 km via NH27
- From Imphal - 203 km via NH2 or NH29
- From Mokokchung - 207 km via NH2
Frequently Asked Questions about Dimapur
Q1: What is Dimapur known for?
A1: Dimapur is known for being a major commercial hub in Nagaland, its vibrant markets, historical sites like the Kachari ruins, and its rich cultural diversity.
Q2: How do I get to Dimapur?
A2: Dimapur is accessible by air, rail, and road. It has its own airport, and there is a railway station connecting it to major cities in India. Buses and taxis are also available for road travel.
Q3: What are the popular tourist attractions in Dimapur?
A3: Popular tourist attractions include the Kachari Ruins, Dimapur Ao Baptist Church, Nagaland Science Centre, and the local markets where you can buy traditional crafts and goods.
Q4: What is the best time to visit Dimapur?
A4: The best time to visit Dimapur is between October and March when the weather is pleasant and suitable for sightseeing.
Q5: Is Dimapur a safe place for tourists?
A5: Yes, Dimapur is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any other city, it is advisable to take basic precautions and stay aware of your surroundings.
Q6: What languages are spoken in Dimapur?
A6: The main languages spoken in Dimapur are Nagamese, English, and Hindi. Many locals also speak various Naga tribal languages.
Q7: Are there good accommodation options in Dimapur?
A7: Yes, Dimapur has a range of accommodation options, from budget hotels to more comfortable and upscale hotels, catering to different types of travelers.
Q8: What kind of food can I expect in Dimapur?
A8: In Dimapur, you can enjoy a variety of cuisines, including traditional Naga food, Indian dishes, and some international options. The city is known for its spicy and flavorful Naga dishes.
Q9: What is the culture like in Dimapur?
A9: Dimapur has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by various Naga tribes. The city celebrates many traditional festivals and has a strong sense of community.
Q10: Can I find ATMs and banks easily in Dimapur?
A10: Yes, Dimapur has several banks and ATMs, especially in the main city areas, making it convenient for visitors to access financial services.
