Semoma Fort

Semoma Fort is a historic hilltop fortification located in Semoma area of Khonoma village in Kohima District, Nagaland, about 20 km west of Kohima. Built by the Angami Naga community using traditional stone masonry, it is known for its role in the 1879 resistance against British forces. Today the fort survives as stone ruins with defensive walls and terraces, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and paddy fields and forming a key heritage site within Asia's first green village.

Visitors can expect to see the stone ruins of a traditional Angami hill fort set on a ridge above Khonoma village. The site consists of weathered stone walls, bastions and terraced enclosures surrounded by forested hills and terraced paddy fields. Access involves a short uphill walk through the village. There are no restored buildings, but the elevated location offers panoramic views of the valley, opportunities for photography, and interpretation of traditional Naga defensive architecture alongside the village's conservation landscape.

Semoma Fort was constructed by the Angami Naga community of Khonoma as a defensive hill fort using dry stone walls. It gained prominence during the Battle of Khonoma in 1879-1880 when Angami warriors used the fortified village to resist British forces. The fort and village defenses are noted for demonstrating traditional Naga military architecture and the history of Naga resistance in the late 19th century.

The fort is an important heritage symbol for the Angami Naga community and Khonoma village. It reflects traditional Naga settlement planning, stone craftsmanship, and community defense practices. As part of Khonoma, which is known for community-led conservation and sustainable practices, the fort contributes to the village's cultural identity and heritage tourism.