Dzukou Valley Trek - Nagaland
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A signboard at Dzukou says, “Well, if you find it hard to go to Dzukou, you may find it hard to go to heaven.” Dzukou Valley, which borders Nagaland and Manipur, is touted to be one of the best trekking spots in North-Eastern India. This testing trek adventure will be worthwhile for all avid trekkers, adventure seekers, and photography enthusiasts.
During Summer, its rolling green hills put you in awe, while the vivid flowers and tall grasses touch down at the self-illuminating valleys often enshrouded with a magical mist whisper sweet nothings. During Winter, the valleys are frozen, and the mountains are capped with lush white snow. ‘Dzukou’ Valley means ‘Dull and Soulless’, a name given by locals to reflect the nature of the place in winter.
The vast expanses of green hill slopes, the surreal presence of pearly white clouds and the gleaming mountain tops make for a dream-like trekking route. Located at 2450 meters, the Dzukou Valley, located at the bottom of a large crater of an extinct volcano, is by far the best trekking route in Nagaland.
The trail to reach the Dzukou Valley trek will leave you breathless, inspire you and test your endurance all at once – making this trail very special! You will witness the magnificence of rolling hillocks covered by a thick blanket of green forests, the tranquil beauty of aqua blue water, and glorious assortment of flowers that fill the valley with colors and light.
With the steep trek upward followed by 2-3 hours of walking through thick bamboo thickets and deep forest land, you will understand why this trail is considered the best trek route in Nagaland. Discover the most charming spot in the North East with Plan The Unplanned and tick another adventure off your travel bucket list – book your spot now!
Some facts about Dzukou Valley Trek:
- The dreamlike Dzukou Valley is home to the world’s most exotic lilies.
- Two rivers, Japfu and Dzukou, water this valley, fondly addressed as “The Valley of Flowers” among locals.
- The stream that flows in the valley has healing effects.
Know About Kohima: Kohima is the capital city of Nagaland. Known for the Hornbill Festival, Kohima is mainly known for its Angami tribes among the other 16 tribes in Nagaland.
How to reach Kohima?
Kohima is located at the following distances from its neighbouring state capitals:
- Guwahati (Assam)– 339 km
- Imphal (Manipur)- 145 km
The nearest Airport, Railhead, and Road network are in Dimapur, located 74 km away. NH 39 connects Kohima to Dimapur and Imphal.
Trip Highlights
- Village walk in Dzuleke
- Drive to Kohima
- Visit the War Cemetery
- Surreal Dzukou Valley Trek
Highlights
- Trek Grade: Moderate (Difficulty Level is subjective)
- Trek Altitude: 2452 m
- Trek Distance: 25 km (to & fro)
- Trek Region: Dzoku Valley, Nagaland
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Meet in Kohima, visit War Cemetery and homestay in Kigwema
Day 2: Reach the top via Viswema
Day 3: Explore Dzukou Valley, descend via Jakhama, and end trip in Kohima
Day 1 - Meet in Kohima, visit War Cemetery and homestay in Kigwema
Distance of Kigwema from Kohima: 15 km
Altitude of Kohima: 1444 m
Altitude of Kigwema: 1585 m
Your journey to Dzukou Valley begins from Kohima. We’ll meet at a designated point at around 1 pm, the details of which will be shared in the mail.
After the initial introduction, we will go for lunch, where you will get to know fellow trippers better. Feel free to talk with locals and ask questions. We will give you a brief of the trip, after which we’ll go to our homestay in Kigwema.
We will visit War Cemetery.
You can spend the rest of the evening at leisure. The next day, we will start the trek early, so bid a good night to your new friends and retire early.
Day 2 - Reach the top via Viswema
Kigwema to Viswema: 11 km
Trek from Viswema to Dzukou Guest House: 4.5 hours
Total Dzukou Valley Trek Distance via Viswema: 13 km
After early breakfast, we will get on the road to reach Viswema – the base of the Dzukou Valley Trek.
Meanwhile, take time to absorb nature. The journey will continue as we drive from Kohima to Viswema. The drive switches to steep, winding roads as we bounce down the hills surrounded by wildflowers and bamboo.
Viswema is where the trek starts to the Dzukou rest house. We will begin with a 1.5-hour uphill trek through dense bamboo thickets. We assure you that the views will soothe your inhibitions. We will take short breaks, and also find a place to savor packed lunch on the way.
After the steep 1.5-hour trek, we will walk for another 3 hours through plain lands to reach Dzukou Valley. Dzukou Valley trekking will give you a good glimpse of the Japfu peak upfront, which has an elevation of 3048 meters, the second-largest in Nagaland. The panoramic views of the valley, the majestic mountains surrounding you and the natural green environment make the trek most worthwhile and memorable.
In the end, we reach the Dzukou dormitory. Freshen up, have dinner and rest for the night.
Day 3 - Explore Dzukou Valley and End trip in Kohima
Wake up to the silent morning. We will commence downhill trekking to the valley at around 4:30 am. This will take approximately an hour. But why are we trekking down only to come back up?
We will go down to the valley. Dzukou Valley is well-hidden among the high mountain ranges on the Manipur-Nagaland border. The valley is famous for its multicoloured carpets of flowers that bloom in summer, most notably the Dzukou lily, found only in this valley. The flowers begin to bloom in the monsoon, and the first two weeks of July are the peak flowering season. As you reach, you will also get glimpses of the Dzukou River.
After spending a reasonable amount of time here, we will return to our base. After reaching, we will start preparing for breakfast. Pack your bags, have breakfast and leave for Jakhama. The trek descends steeply but is shorter than the ascent from the previous day.
We will be in Jakhama by lunchtime.
The trip started in Kohima, so we will say goodbye to our North-Eastern Dzukou Valley trek in Kohima. After lunch, we will leave for Kohima.
In Kohima, we bid each other goodbye. You can return on the same day or spend a few days exploring the state.
All memories of the days spent together would come back as we part. We know how difficult it is to let go of funny times, sleepless nights and new friendships. But Hey, Listen, once you choose PTU, it is your home forever. Most of us cross paths multiple times.
Remember your exhilaration during the Dzukou Valley Trek, share pictures and stay connected. And whenever you feel like doing it all over again, we are here. Check out our other itineraries and ring us soon. It would be a pleasure to see you. Until we meet again, take care and love life.
Meet your host
Plan The Unplanned
- Verified Host
- Logout's Trusted
- Traveler's Choice
What’s life without adventure? Isn’t the real purpose of life to travel, to experience new places, and witness the sunrise from new mountaintops? This thought is what united Jatin and Tarun over a cup of chai, in spite of being from two unrelated backgrounds (CA and IT). They knew each other since the time Jatin was helping Tarun learn the ways of the wilderness through weekend treks and outings with another traveling group. Their love for traveling and trekking together motivated them to start something of their own. Thus was born “Plan The Unplanned”, where travel goals come true. Under the Companies Act, Plan The Unplanned is incorporated as Unplanned Journeys Private Limited They started their journey on unsteady ground, much like any other company, but they shared an infatuation for travel and adventure with their customers, which amplified their determination, and thus, Plan the Unplanned family keeps getting bigger every day! Just about any travel idea can come alive with Plan The Unplanned…treks, adventure activities like rock climbing, kayaking, rafting, backpacking trips across the country, cultural outings, photo walks; everything that fellow travelers need, to explore the great outdoors together. Well now that the wanderlust has kicked in and you can already see a vacation in your nearest future, here’s what we have to offer!
See Plan The Unplanned's other listings
Inclusions
- Tented Accomodation in Japhu Eco Camp
- Tented/ Dorm Accomodation in Dzukou Valley ( depending on availabiltiy )
- Day 2 Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner, High Tea & Snacks, Day 3 & 4 - Breakfast & Dinner
- Land Transport from Kohima to Kohima and back
- Local Guide
- Trek leaderr from Plan The Unplanned ( if group size over 10 pax )
- Trek Permissions
- Camping equipemnts, Food & Logistics
Exclusions
- Airfare/Train tickets to and back from Guwahati not included
- Train tickets from Guwahati to Dimapur will be on availability basis -Sleeper or A/c coach costs will have to be additional borne by the traveller. The team shall provide assistance in booking of flights and trains
- Any meals not included above - lunch on Day 3 and Diner
- Any kind of personal expenses like soft drinks, bottled water, beverages, tips, telephone calls, laundry etc
- Trekking equipment like trekking bag, shoe, trekking pole etc
- Any costs arising out of unforeseen circumstances like landslides, roadblocks, bad weather, etc
- Any kind of insurance (health, medical, life accidental,etc)
- Anything not included above
Things to carry
- Trekking Shoes ( Do not carry sneakers/ sports shoes. Carry shoes that have good grip and ankle support)
- Backpack (35 -50 litres): A backpack with sturdy straps and a supporting frame. Rain cover for a backpack is essential.
- Layers/Warm Clothes/Thermals
- Trek Pants/T-shirts/Undergarments as per your convenience. Carry the actual number required and stay light
- Sunglasses, Suncap, sunscreen.
- Hand gloves, socks 2 pairs and woollen socks
- Headlamp/LED Torch is mandatory
- Trekking Pole
- Poncho/Raincoat
- Personal Medikit
- Toiletries: moisturiser, light towel, lip balm, toilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, hand sanitiser. Do not carry wet wipes.
- One 1 litre water bottle.
- Plastic covers: carry a few extra plastic bags for wet clothes. Make sure you take them back and not litter the mountains.
Policy and more
Here’s the cancellation policy for Himalayan Treks/Backpacking Trips/Road Trips
- If you cancel before 30 days – 90% of amount will be refunded
- If you cancel between 20 -30 days – 75% % of amount will be refunded
- If you cancel between 15-19 days – 50% will be refunded
- If you cancel between 7-14 days – 25 % amount will be refunded
- If you cancel between 0- 7 days before the departure date – No amount would be refunded.
Note: For All The Above Refund Cases Transaction Fees/Internet Handling Charges will be dedcuted from the overall amount and balance amount shall be refunded. You can transfer your ticket to anyone so that you could save your hard earned money
For other trips and travels with us, and detailed terms and conditions check the following link : https://www.plantheunplanned.com/refund-cancellation-policy
Frequently Asked Questionss
Q: I have booked the trek when will I get further updates regarding the trek?
A: Well, most of our treks are usually confirmed by Thursday and you would receive a BON VOYAGE mail that would contain details as regards Pickup Points ( Location and Timings ), Outdoor Leader ( Point of Contact ), Do’s and Don’ts. You’ll be added to Whatsapp Group for all the further updates.
Q: Would I be added to a WhatsApp Group once the trek is confirmed?
A: Yes, the Bon Voyage mail would contain a link for Whatsapp Group through which one can join and interact with fellow travellers and outdoor leaders.
Q: I'm a solo traveller, Can I join?
A: The interesting thing about travelling alone is that you get to meet new people from diverse backgrounds, and towards the end, you are no longer strangers. Hence solo travellers are always welcome to join us on our trips.
Read more about solo travelling here and get inspired! https://www.plantheunplanned.com/solo-yet-accompanied/
Q: Is it safe for Women/Girls?
A: Safety and security are our priority at all times. Hence it is safe for women/girls to join us on our treks and travels. Our trek leaders accompany the team at all times, and our campsites are secured and safe for accommodation. We also have female trek leaders who accompany us on most of our treks.
Q: Do I have to carry luggage all the way during trekking?
A: Not at all. You could keep all the extra luggage back at the campsite/homestay and carry only the necessary stuff for the trek (Raincoats, Torchlight, Waterbottle, lunchbox, and your valuable)
Q: Do you have Washrooms during the trek?
A: Well, you are in the mountains and none of our trails has a washroom facility during the trek.
Q: How do I avail discounts?
A: Details for availing discounts are mentioned in the following link, https://www.plantheunplanned.com/membership/
Q: Would I be able to postpone to the future in case I do not attend the trek/trip on the day of departure?
A: We are extremely sorry, you cannot postpone to any future date in case you fail to attend the trek on the mentioned date for any reasons whatsoever (family/health/work emergencies). You can write to us at [email protected] as regards and our team will get in touch with you on the same
Q: What time of year is ideal for Dzukou Valley Trek?
A: Visit here during the summer and monsoon season to see the natural blooms (May to August). Although difficult, the rains are a necessary evil if you want the greatest vistas. Around late May and early June, the renowned Dzukou Lilies blossom.
Q: What about the valley's phone and data connectivity?
A: Most services are available till Viswema. Up in the valley, there is no actual connectivity. Don't get very thrilled if you sometimes manage to collect some strange signals.
Q: Does Drinking Water Exist in the Dzukou Valley?
A: The neighbouring streams provide water that is utilised for drinking and washing as well as other uses. Bring your own bottles if that doesn't sit well with you (and please take them back to the nearest dustbin in the city too). Bottled water is not available above the valley.
Q: Are there restrooms on Dzukou valley?
A: There are simple Indian-style restrooms. The water will need to be transported using buckets.
Q: How to reach Dimapur?
A: By Air:
Dimapur’s airport is conveniently located just 4 km from the city center. It has regular flights to Kolkata, Guwahati and Imphal Airports on behalf of Alliance Airlines or Deccan Airways
By Train:
Dimapur railway station is a major railhead of this place and so many trains from all major cities of India come to this city. Major trains from Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai and Mumbai are available on regular basis.
By Road:
Dimapur is a small city in the northeast of India. It’s connected to all major cities by road and there are frequent state transport buses from nearby places that come here every day! Nearby destinations include Kohima (60 km), Imphal(204km) & Shillong (307Km).
Q: Is Dzukou Valley in Nagaland or Manipur?
A: Dzukou Valley straddles between the border of Nagaland and Manipur, two of the most charming states in North East India.
Q: Do I need ILP for Dzukou Valley?
A: Yes, inner line permit (ILP) is a must even for Indians from other states when visiting anywhere in Nagaland. It is a good idea to secure an ILP online before the trip commences because otherwise you will waste lot of time in getting the ILP from the office at dusty town of Dimapur.
Q: How are Electricity and Internet facilities at Dzukou Valley?
A: There is no internet since the start of the Dzukou Valley. You may get patchy internet in Viswema. Kisama and Kohima has better internet. This is why it is a better idea to inform your parents, kids and spouse about your plan to embark upon the Dzukou Valley trek at least a day in advance.
Q: Is Dzukou Valley Safe?
A: Yes, Dzukou Valley trek is very safe even for the solo female traveller. That said, it is a good idea to start early on the trek. The landscape here is breathtaking, but it’s not safe to trek after dark.
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