Nestled amidst the tranquil hills of Kohima, the Kohima War Cemetery stands as a poignant reminder of the valour and sacrifice witnessed during one of the most pivotal battles of World War II. Here, amidst the serene beauty of the landscape, echoes of history resonate, retelling the gripping saga of Indian and British forces bravely facing off against the advancing Japanese Empire.
The Battle of Kohima etched a decisive chapter, halting the relentless advance of the Japanese army towards the heart of the British Raj. In the shadow of the Deputy Commissioner’s bungalow on Garrison Hill, encircling the hallowed tennis court, soldiers engaged in fierce hand-to-hand combat, bearing witness to the ultimate test of courage and resilience.
Today, standing upon the very grounds where the old Deputy Commissioner’s residence once stood, visitors are transported back in time, immersed in the solemn atmosphere of remembrance. While the bungalow may have succumbed to the ravages of time, enduring white concrete lines now mark and preserve the historic tennis court, an everlasting tribute to the valorous souls who fought on these grounds.
Maintained with reverence by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, the Kohima War Cemetery serves as a sacred sanctuary, honouring the memory of the brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice. With 1,420 Commonwealth graves standing as silent sentinels, each bearing testament to bravery and fortitude, the cemetery stands as a timeless tribute to the heroes of yesteryears.
At the pinnacle of the cemetery, a majestic memorial dome (*chhattri*) stands tall, a solemn homage to the Hindu and Sikh soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. From this vantage point, visitors can gaze upon the sweeping vistas of Garrison Hill and the charming town of Kohima, offering a moment of reflection amidst the tranquil surroundings.
As visitors traverse the hallowed grounds, they are greeted by a poignant epitaph, penned by English classicist John Maxwell Edmonds: “When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today.”
The Kohima War Cemetery is a memorial and burial ground dedicated to soldiers of the Allied Forces (mostly Commonwealth troops) who died during the Battle of Kohima in 1944. It honours more than 1,420 Commonwealth soldiers along with a memorial for 917 Hindu and Sikh troops who were cremated as per their faith.
The Battle of Kohima was a crucial turning point during the Second World War’s Burma campaign. The fighting here (on Garrison Hill / around the Deputy Commissioner’s bungalow and its tennis court) halted the Japanese advance into India — a major strategic event that helped shape the outcome in the region.
Yes — the cemetery grounds have car parking. It is located within the city / town-area of Kohima, so quite accessible if you are staying nearby.
The cemetery contains over 1,420 graves of Commonwealth soldiers who died during the battle, as well as the Kohima Cremation Memorial, which commemorates Hindu and Sikh soldiers. There are also notable features like the world-famous epitaph and nearby historic sites with remnants of World War II.
The cemetery is open to visitors from dawn to dusk (9 am to 4 pm), six days a week. It is closed on Sundays and holidays when staff is not on duty.
