Nagaland has opened its first five-star hotel with the inauguration of Polo Hotel Kohima, a 56-room property in the state capital that significantly expands the state’s hospitality infrastructure and marks the entry of the Northeast-based Polo Hotels Group into Nagaland.
The hotel was formally inaugurated by Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav, who attended the ceremony as chief guest, with Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along also present.
Describing the project as more than an expansion of accommodation facilities, Governor Yadav called it an investment in the region’s future, employment opportunities and tourism potential. He said tourism could encourage entrepreneurship, promote local products and create jobs for young people, while highlighting Kohima’s ability to attract leisure, cultural and business travellers.
Referring to the annual Hornbill Festival, which showcases Nagaland’s cultural heritage to visitors from across India and abroad, the Governor said quality hospitality infrastructure would be key to strengthening the state’s appeal as a tourist destination. He expressed hope that the hotel would maintain high standards of service, cleanliness, safety and professionalism while reflecting Nagaland’s distinctive culture.
Minister Along described the property as a significant addition to the state’s hospitality sector, saying it could contribute to government revenue and create opportunities for local businesses. He urged the business community to invest in Nagaland’s future, adding that the state government and the Tourism Department would work with the hotel group.
Overlooking the Kohima valley, the hotel blends Naga architecture and cultural heritage with modern facilities. It features a glass-fronted lobby, an infinity pool and guest rooms with panoramic views, while its interiors incorporate tribal artwork and traditional Naga textiles. The roof of the Mithun block draws inspiration from morungs, the traditional community spaces central to Naga cultural life.
The property houses Tring Tring, the group’s 1990s-inspired all-day diner and its third outlet after Shillong and Kolkata. Alongside Oriental, Western and Indian dishes, the restaurant offers a seven-course Naga menu showcasing the region’s culinary traditions.
Deval Tibrewalla, CEO and Whole-Time Director of Polo Hotels Group, said most of the hotel’s employees were local residents, and that the group intended to source products from local weavers, artists, farmers and carpenters. He added that the hotel was designed to reflect Kohima’s landscape, culture and cuisine rather than resemble a property that could be located anywhere.
Founder and Chairman Kishan Tibrewalla said the opening continued the group’s journey as a Northeast-based hospitality company that began in Shillong 35 years ago.
The hotel is positioned as a base for exploring Kohima’s historical sites, including locations associated with the Second World War, as well as trips to Khonoma village and Dzükou Valley. It is expected to serve visitors attending the Hornbill Festival, held during the first ten days of December each year. Kohima is accessible by road from Dimapur Airport, with the journey typically taking around one-and-a-half to two hours.
Founded in Shillong in 1991, Polo Hotels Group operates properties including Polo Towers Shillong, Polo Resort Cherrapunji, Polo Hotel Agartala, Polo Floatel in Kolkata and Chapter Lakeside in Tripura. The opening of Polo Hotel Kohima adds a new premium accommodation option to Nagaland’s tourism sector, with an emphasis on local culture, cuisine and employment.
Original Source: https://nenow.in/north-east-news/nagaland/nagaland-states-first-five-star-hotel-polo-hotel-kohima-inaugurated.html
Category: Nagaland,Northeast News,Top News
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Publish Date: 2026-10-25 23:18:00
