For adventure seekers, there's magnificent Japf and Dzukou Valley, 15km from Kohima. October to March is the best season to scale the heights (3048m above sea level) of Japf, or trek through its forests. On the other side of the peak lies the splendid Dzukou Valley. Between June and September, wild herbs line the edges of serpentine streams that flow through sloping green downs thickly carpeted with wildflowers. Big bunches of Bluevenda, cling to tree trunks and 360 varieties of orchids grow in wild profusion on the hillsides. The place takes your breath away. In winter when frosted gold weeds dangle icicles, over frozen streams, the valley is even more dazzling.

Angling for Rainbow trout at Dzulekie, 40 km from Kohima, can be another invigorating experience. The river so narrow in places, that it seems to have gone underground as it gushes through a deep gorge. The Tourism Department runs a tourist resort and cottages here. They hire out trekking and camping equipment.

Though the trail is picturesque, and the village is just 20 km away from Kohima, the road is rough, hire a Sumo. For a real taste of rural Naga life, visit Konoma village with its wooden homes, clinging to the windblown hillside. Climb up to the peak which affords 360 degree views of the surrounding hills and the golden terrace fields below. Or simply sit with a villager on the sun-warmed stones and soak in the pastoral tranquility.

This village, 41 km from Kohima is the other wonderful place. The Sekrenyi Festival of the Angami tribe is held here, from 25th to 27th February. Developed very tastefully, into a tourist village in the Angami style, but with all modern amenities. It is maintained by the village community and allows you the experience of actually living in a village and interacting on a personal level, without compromising on city comforts.