The location of the Raj Bhavan is one of the most picturesque spots, which is the only environmental haven. Originally called the “Summer Hill” during the British time, and later the “Garrison Hill”, during the famous battle of Kohima of 1944, Raj Bhavan has a commanding view of the Kohima town and also a good view of Bara basti (Kohima village), claiming to be the biggest village in Asia, towards the North. It has a grand view of Pulebadze peak towering over village Jotsoma with a Cross planted by the villagers towards the South.
The Garrison Hill itself was the scene of fierce fighting between the British army and the invading army of Japan that come sweeping through Manipur. In the garden, on display is a 1000 pounder sheel of the bomb dropped from a bomber. Old trees, mainly Oaksand Cryptomeria. Japanica, reminiscent of original verdant grandeur must have witnessed the battle of Kohima. They also witnessed the visit of Pandit Jawaharlar Nehru, Prime Minister of India and U Nu, Prime Minister of Burma on March 30, 1953. They witnessed the Inauguration of the state in the football ground, Kohima by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, the President of India on 1st December 1963. These tress now stand in their pristine glory overlooking the world famous War Cemetery of Kohima where 1287 soldiers, foreign and natives who lie in their eternal sleep at the very place, gave their ‘today for your tomorrow’. The rich flora on the Raj Bhavan hill comprises more than 200 varieties of trees and plants concentrated on an area not more than two hectares. Successive Governors contributed to its preservation while during last more than five years, several hundred more trees, bamboos and shrubs have been added. A beautifully landscaped garden has also been developed to make the Raj Bhavan a model environmental sanctuary.