Kohima, October 25, 2026: Nagaland has entered a new phase in its hospitality sector with the inauguration of Polo Hotel Kohima, the state’s first five-star hotel. Inaugurated by Governor Nand Kishore Yadav, the 56-room property aims to strengthen the state’s tourism infrastructure and attract more leisure and business travellers.
Addressing the inauguration ceremony, the Governor said quality hospitality infrastructure could create employment, encourage entrepreneurship and improve economic opportunities for local communities. He highlighted Nagaland’s growing tourism potential and the importance of providing visitors with memorable experiences rooted in the state’s culture and traditions.
The Governor also emphasised the role of the annual Hornbill Festival in showcasing Nagaland’s cultural heritage to domestic and international visitors. He expressed hope that the hotel would maintain high standards of service while reflecting the state’s distinctive identity.
Nagaland Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along described the hotel as a significant addition to the state’s hospitality infrastructure. He called on businesses to invest in Nagaland and said the state government and Tourism Department would work with the hotel group.
Part of Polo Hotels Group, the property marks the company’s entry into Nagaland. Founded in Shillong in 1991, the group operates hotels in Meghalaya, Tripura and Kolkata.
Overlooking Kohima’s valley, the hotel combines contemporary amenities with Naga-inspired architecture and design. Its interiors feature tribal artwork and traditional woven textiles, while elements inspired by Naga morungs add cultural character to the property.
The hotel’s restaurant, Tring Tring, offers Indian, Oriental and Western cuisines alongside a seven-course Naga menu. The management has also highlighted its commitment to employing local residents and sourcing products from regional weavers, artists, farmers and carpenters.
CEO Deval Tibrewalla said the property was designed to celebrate Nagaland’s landscapes, culture and cuisine.
The hotel will also serve as a base for exploring Kohima’s World War II heritage sites, Khonoma village and Dzükou Valley. Its location is expected to benefit visitors attending the Hornbill Festival, held during the first ten days of December.
The opening marks a milestone for Nagaland’s tourism industry, combining premium accommodation with opportunities for local employment and enterprise.
