Polo Hotel Kohima, a new luxury hotel located at New Minister Hill, Kohima, Nagaland, was inaugurated on October 24.
The newly opened hotel marks a significant addition to Kohima’s hospitality sector, reflecting a commitment to supporting Nagaland’s growing tourism and hospitality industry.
The hotel aims to position Kohima as a premier venue for official engagements, government functions and social gatherings by providing a luxurious and suitable setting for various occasions.
Addressing the inaugural programme, Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav said Nagaland’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals and warm hospitality offer significant opportunities for tourism, making quality accommodation and professional hospitality services increasingly important.
He said Polo Hotel Kohima could support tourism, business activities, official engagements and social functions, while encouraging the management to establish strong linkages with local entrepreneurs, artisans, farmers and food producers.
The Governor stressed the importance of promoting local products, traditional cuisine, indigenous art and talent, stating that tourism should generate meaningful benefits for local communities, particularly the youth.
Emphasising sustainable tourism, he called for responsible waste management, energy efficiency, environmental protection and respect for local traditions.
Highlighting the Hornbill Festival and Kohima’s historical and cultural significance, Yadav said the state has considerable potential to attract visitors throughout the year. He noted that the hospitality sector’s long-term success would depend on service quality, cleanliness, safety and professional standards.
The Governor also underscored the importance of government-private sector partnerships in encouraging investment and improving tourism infrastructure.
Congratulating Polo Hotels Group, he expressed hope that the hotel would contribute to employment generation, promote Nagaland as a welcoming destination and support the state’s economic progress.
Temjen Imna Along hails Polo Hotel as boost to Nagaland’s tourism
Nagaland Tourism and Higher Education Minister,Temjen Imna Along described Polo Hotel Kohima as a significant milestone for the state’s hospitality sector, expressing hope that the establishment would set a benchmark for tourism infrastructure in Nagaland.
Speaking as the honoured guest at the inauguration he highlighted the importance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Act East Policy and the leadership of Chief Minister Dr. Neiphiu Rio in promoting development through partnership with the Centre.
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Along encouraged the business community to invest confidently in Nagaland’s future, stating that the state needs leaders willing to take bold steps towards prosperity and progress.
He assured that the Tourism Department and the Government of Nagaland would continue to support such investments beyond his tenure as minister or elected representative.
Describing the hotel as an achievement not only for Kohima but for the entire state, Along noted that the capital, known for its historical significance, particularly the Battle of Kohima during World War II, was now moving towards progress and prosperity.
He urged the people to protect and preserve institutions such as Polo Hotel, stating that investments of this nature could contribute to Nagaland’s development and create lasting benefits for future generations.
Polo Hotel Kohima to promote Naga culture and year-round tourism
Speaking at the inauguration, Deval Tibrewalla, Whole-time Director and CEO of Polo Hotel Group, said the hotel was designed to reflect the identity of Nagaland, incorporating Naga textiles, local art and traditional design elements. He said the property would seek five-star classification and aims to offer luxury hospitality rooted in the region’s cultural heritage.
Emphasising local participation, Tibrewalla said the hotel would work with local weavers, artists, farmers, carpenters and other service providers, while providing training opportunities to develop hospitality skills among local youth.
He said the Hornbill Festival brings global attention to Nagaland for 10 days annually, and the hotel aims to contribute to promoting the state during the remaining 355 days through its wider hospitality network and promotional activities.
Tibrewalla also acknowledged the support of the Nagaland government and various departments in establishing the hotel, describing their assistance as an example of ease of doing business.
Meanwhile, Kishan Tibrewalla, Chairman and Whole-time Director of Polo Hotel Group, said the company, which began operations in Shillong in 1991, currently operates eight hotels and resorts across six states, with plans to expand to 14 properties within the next three years.
He said Kohima was an important choice in fulfilling the group’s commitment to the Northeast and indicated plans to begin work in Dimapur. He also expressed hope that Nagaland would emerge as a gateway to the Northeast.
Kishan Tibrewalla said the hotel would incorporate Naga cultural elements, locally sourced fruits and vegetables, and employ local people, adding that the group aims to maintain high standards of cleanliness, service and quality while remaining a responsible member of the community.
He thanked Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio, Tourism Minister Temjen Imna Along, the Tourism Department and other government departments for their support, and expressed hope that Polo Hotel Kohima would contribute to the state’s economic growth and tourism potential.
The programme also featured short speeches by Bishop of the Diocese of Kohima, Most Rev. Dr. James Thoppil, and Hekani Jakhalu, MLA and Advisor for Industries and Commerce Hekani Jakhalu . The formal inauguration was marked by a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the chief guest and dignitaries in the presence of the Polo Hotel Group management team, followed by a property showround showcasing the hotel’s facilities and amenities.
