Down to the plains
From Kohima, the highway winds down the hills through Piphema and Medziphema to Chumoukedima, at the foot of the hills, and on into Dimapur. The road has been widened in stages, but some stretches are still narrow, steep and prone to landslides, and heavy trucks crawl on the gradients.
Loading in Kohima
Many Kohima homes are reached by narrow lanes or steps, so goods are often carried to the truck on the main road. Start early, and ask for cartons one person can carry.
Where in Dimapur
The truck reaches Chumoukedima first, then Dimapur's eastern side. The centre around the station and Hong Kong Market is crowded; Duncan Basti, Burma Camp and Purana Bazaar have many houses. Give the exact address and a landmark.
Why people make this move
Business, trade, jobs and the rail and air links draw many Kohima families to Dimapur, and officials move between the capital and Chumoukedima's new district offices. If an employer is paying, ask what documents they need; every mover we work with provides a GST invoice.
Landslides and rain
Between May and September, landslides can block the road, sometimes for long periods. Keep spare days and wrap everything against rain. October to April usually suits this route best.
Hornbill week
During the Hornbill Festival, from 1 to 10 December, the road is busy with visitors. Christmas is also a big holiday. Choose a date clear of them.
Students
A student moving to a Dimapur college usually needs a few-items move. Check the hostel's dates first.
Packing for the descent
Ask for heavy pieces to be loaded low and tied firmly, and extra padding on glass and electronics for the curves.
Warmer below
Dimapur is much warmer and more humid than Kohima. Fans will matter in the new home, and woollens can be stored with moisture absorbers.
Medziphema
Medziphema, on the way, has a university campus and growing housing. Some moves on this route end there; give the exact address.
Two-wheelers
A scooter or motorcycle can usually travel in the same truck if it is wrapped, photographed and listed separately. Our bike transport service page explains the options.
Keeping a Kohima home
Some families keep their Kohima house after moving to Dimapur. Decide in advance what stays, and leave the house locked with the water and power arranged.
Settling in
In Dimapur, ask how the water supply works, since many homes rely on borewells or tankers, check the power backup, and book internet early. Our guide to address changes after moving lists the official records to update.
Piphema
Piphema, about halfway down, is a junction where a road branches towards Peren. Trucks often pause here.
Chumoukedima offices
Many government offices have moved to Chumoukedima, so officials often move from Kohima to the new district headquarters. Give the office colony's name.
Weekend traffic
On weekends and holidays, cars from Dimapur crowd the road up to Kohima and back. A weekday move is quicker for the truck.