Also known as the Valley of Flowers, the Dzukou Valley is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the North East. Located at an altitude of 2450 meters, it is considered to be one of the most famous adventure spots in Kohima, Nagaland. It is located behind the Japfu range, another important travel destination for tourists in the state.
Mostly visited during the full bloom season, the beauty of the valley is best appreciated when lilies in white and pink, aconitums, euphorbias, and hundreds of other botanical species in varied colours adorn the valley in monsoon.
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If you are an avid trekker and love the nature, explore the 3-4 kilometer steep climb to this exotic valley. A 17 kilometer trek from Viswema Village to Dzukou will take you 5-6 hours. And another trek from Dzukou Valley to Zakhama, 15 kilometers, will take you about 3-4 hours.
Dzukou Valley is located just 30 kilometers from Kohima, you can stop by the shops at the city center and pick up some souvenirs for family and friends back at home. You can also shop for local handicrafts and textiles. Stop by at local restaurants to interact with the Nagas and taste their typical cuisine of dried pork, steam bamboo fish and more.
You can carry forward the trek to the village on foot thereafter. The natural beauty enroute the trekking path is worth all the hardships. You can also take rest at the shelters made on the way and sit back and enjoy the greenery surrounding you.
You can also trek to the Japfu range and camp at the peak, which offers a splendid view of the entire valley.
You can also explore the natural caves and rocks to get familiar with the countryside.
Getting There
You can either take a bus or a cab from Kohima to Viswema Village or Zakhama. It will take you about 20-25 minutes by car. Guides and porters can also be hired, although the trekking pathway is well paved and there are a number of sign boards to show you the way.
There are no special permits required for the Dzukou Valley. However, an entry fee of Rs 30 per person is required.
You can avail the rental cabs from Dimapur, which is connected with some of the most important cities in the country. Similarly, you get taxis from Dimapur railway station, which is connected to Guwahati and Kolkata.
Best Time to Visit
One of the most important places to visit in the North East, the Valley of Celestial Charm is best visited between June and September, i.e., the full bloom season.