Shillong, Oct 25: Shillong-based Polo Hotels Group has expanded into Nagaland with the opening of Polo Hotel Kohima, the state’s first five-star hotel.
The 56-room property was inaugurated by Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav on Saturday in the presence of state Tourism and Higher Education Minister Temjen Imna Along and other dignitaries, according to a press release issued today.
Founded in Shillong in 1991 with the opening of Hotel Polo Towers near the city’s Polo Ground, the group has expanded its presence across the North East and Kolkata, with properties in Meghalaya and Tripura. The Kohima hotel marks its entry into Nagaland.
Speaking at the inauguration, Yadav said investment in hospitality could generate employment, encourage entrepreneurship and create opportunities for local communities.
“Tourism is not merely about attracting visitors; it is about creating meaningful experiences while ensuring that local communities benefit from the opportunities tourism generates. The growth of this sector can stimulate entrepreneurship, promote local products, create employment for our youth and strengthen the economic prospects of the state,” he said.
He also highlighted the potential of Kohima as a destination for leisure, cultural and business travellers, noting that improved hospitality infrastructure could help the state attract more visitors.
Along described the hotel as a significant addition to the state’s hospitality sector. He said the establishment would contribute to government revenue and called on businesses to invest in Nagaland’s future.
“We opened our first hotel in Shillong thirty-five years ago, as a Northeast company building in the Northeast. To open in Kohima, and to be welcomed here by the Governor and the government of Nagaland, means a lot to all of us,” said Kishan Tibrewalla, founder and chairman of Polo Hotels Group.
Chief executive and whole-time director Deval Tibrewalla said the group wanted the property to reflect Nagaland’s identity rather than follow a standard hotel design.
The hotel overlooks Kohima’s valley and incorporates elements of Naga architecture and traditional crafts into its interiors. Tribal artwork features in the guest rooms, while woven Naga textiles form part of the decor. The roof of the Mithun block draws inspiration from traditional morungs, community spaces associated with Naga cultural life.
The property also features an infinity pool and a glass-fronted lobby designed to offer views of the surrounding landscape.
