Situated approximately 25 km south of Kohima, the Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak offer some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes on the continent. Nagaland is often called the 'Switzerland of the East,' and the Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak truly live up to this title. For trekking enthusiasts, the Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak trek is an absolute must. Straddling the borders of Nagaland and Manipur, the renowned Dzukou Valley is a breathtaking sight to witness. Though devoid of trees, during the summer season, the valley comes alive with an abundance of vibrant greenery and flowers. Situated at an elevation of 2452 meters above sea level, some sources suggest that the name "Dzukou" may have originated from the local Angami and Mao dialects, where it means "cold water."
Standing tall at 3048 meters, Japfu Peak is the second-highest peak in Nagaland and serves as the perfect vantage point to behold the heavenly beauty of the Dzukou Valley. Often referred to as the "Valley of Flowers of the East," Dzukou Valley is a breathtaking sight, especially when in full bloom. Nestled at the base of the crater of an ancient volcano, the valley is adorned with an exquisite carpet of diverse grasses and flowers.
Reaching 2600 meters, the highest point in Dzukou Valley offers a wide and panoramic view of the enchanting landscape before you. Sitting atop the hill, one is overwhelmed by the sheer beauty and magnificence of the mesmerizing sight that unfolds in front of your eyes. For nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, exploring the Dzukou Valley and Japfu Peak is a truly unforgettable experience.
The nearest airport is located in Dimapur, which has good flight connectivity with Kolkata and Guwahati. From Dimapur, Kohima is approximately 74 km away, and you can reach there by hiring a taxi or taking a state bus.
The closest railway station is in Dimapur, which is well-connected to other major cities in the North-East and the rest of the country. From Dimapur, you can easily hire a cab or take a bus to reach Kohima.
Kohima is connected to Dimapur via NH 39, providing connectivity to other parts of the country. To reach Dzukou Valley for trekking, you can take a shared Tata Sumo from Kohima to either Zakhma Village (20 km) or Vishwema Village (25 km).
In ancient times, as the Naga forefathers roamed the land in search of a suitable place to settle and cultivate, they stumbled upon a high valley nestled amidst the mountains. After traversing through dense forests, the sight of an expansive valley with rolling hills brought them a sense of relief. However, their hopes were soon dashed as they discovered that the land was unsuitable for agriculture. They referred to this land as "dull and soulless," which in their local dialect became known as Dzukuo. Despite its challenging agricultural prospects, the Dzukou Valley has now become one of the most captivating tourist attractions in the states of Nagaland and Manipur.
Dzukou, a trekker's paradise, offers an unparalleled offbeat adventure experience, distinct from the usual treks in the rocky Himalayan mountains. This destination takes you through dense forests, creating a unique and challenging journey. While some sources may label it as an "easy" trek, the reality is quite different. The ascent is steep, involving traversing slippery tracks through the forest, demanding effort and determination. Nevertheless, the rewards are worth it, with breathtaking views awaiting at the end.
The trek covers a distance of around nine kilometers and typically takes about five to six hours to complete. If approaching from the Nagaland side, you have two options: the main route from Viswema or the newer and shorter route from Jakhama. While the Jakhama route may sound appealing, it involves more walking compared to the Viswema trail, where you can reach the starting point of the trek by vehicle. Additionally, the Viswema route is more commonly used, resulting in well-trodden and marked paths, reducing the likelihood of getting off track.
Recognizing the significance of preserving the pristine beauty of Dzukou Valley, the village authorities have implemented an ingenious plan. Before entering the valley, visitors are required to pay a security deposit for any plastic items they carry with them. The deposit is refundable only upon bringing back all plastic items, making Dzukou Valley a designated plastic-free zone!
For those planning to visit the valley from Manipur's side, there's a new route that takes approximately six hours, starting from Mount Tempu in the Senapati district. Whether you choose to enter from Nagaland or Manipur, it is essential to have a local guide accompany you for a safe and enriching experience.
The Dzukou trek is often completed over two days, combining the trek and stay. During your visit, you have accommodation options such as a dormitory (INR 50 per person) or a private room (INR 150). Alternatively, you can pitch your tent. If you prefer a hassle-free experience without worrying about cooking or carrying heavy supplies, the dormitory or private room is an excellent choice. These options provide easy access to meals, blankets, mattresses, and pillows, ensuring a comfortable stay amid the mesmerizing surroundings.
Nagaland
Dimapur
