The Dzukou Valley Trek is a place located in borders of the state of Nagaland and Manipur in the Southern Angami region of Northeast India. This valley is well known for its natural environment, seasonal flowers and flora and fauna. It is situated at an altitude of 2452 m above sea level. Major flora found in the valley is the strong bamboo brush, but the main feature is the plethora of seasonal flowers that bloom every summer. Two freezing cold rivers, Dzukou and Japhu, flow through the valley, crossing each other’s paths and adding to the overall splendour of the place.
Why You Should do Dzukou Valley Trip?
The Dzukou valley trek is an easy to moderately difficult trek which is suitable for any healthy person. It is one of the finest valleys and an iconic natural tourist area in Northeast India. Although the best season to visit is from October to May, even the monsoon season, which is from June to September, is great for visiting . Around that time, you may expect to see colourful and fresh seasonal flowers like Dzukou lily, which is indigenous to Nagaland, aconitum, euphorbia, and multi-colored rhododendrons blooming all over the valley. Fauna including the Asian golden cat, the Hoolock Gibbon, the Dzuko Valley horned toad (Megophrys dzukou), several other species of animals like the clouded leopard, the Asiatic black bear, the capped langur are found.
The valley is associated with various myths and stories, including the existence of a white elephant, the river’s healing properties, and a location where the dead repose before departing. Legend has it that the Angami Tribe’s forefathers attempted to create a new village and settlement in the Dzukou Valley, but were unsuccessful owing to harsh weather conditions that made cultivation and agriculture impossible. Because it was extremely cold, nothing edible could grow there, and there were no trees, it was deemed unfit for human habitation.
There are two ways to get to Dzukou Valley. The route through Zakhama Village is shorter, steeper, and more challenging, and is normally preferred by experienced hikers. Viswema Village is the lengthier route, which has relatively easier ascents and descents.
How to approach the Dzukou Valley Trek from Viswema?
You will have to travel for 8 kilometers on a motorable road to reach the Dzukou valley trek point via the Viswema path. The route then progressively ascends. Then, for around 3 hours, hike along the trekking track. From the highway to the end of the motorable road, you can also rent a taxi or a cab.
After arriving in Viswema, trek 45 minutes along the path to the valley’s beginning point. This location has a resting area where you can take a relaxing lunch break. Then go for a two-hour nature stroll in the valley. At the end of the trail, you’ll find a lovely rest stop.
How to approach the valley from Jakhama?
This way is significantly more difficult than the Viswema approach, but adventurers and adrenaline seekers can take it. The steep, rough-hewn stone route will put your legs to the test. You can use this trail to descend from the valley because it is less slick than Viswema.
If you’re traveling up to the Dzukou valley from Jakhama, take the 4-kilometer motorable route. Then go on a 5-hour adventure hike through the rugged terrain. The walkway eventually connects with the Viswema trail.
Dzukou Valley Trek Summary
Tighten your seat belts as you are going to ride through a very dusty and broken roads towards your most awaited destination from where you’ll start the trek to Dzukou Valley. Well after climbing up to the base point you’ll be thrilled to see a surreal view in front of you and from that point the trek to the Dzukou campsite will start where you’ll pass through the valley, crossing a number of hills while feeling that peaceful breeze. You’ll be cold by the time you reach the campsite but don’t worry the bonfire will be ready to warm you up. Have dinner and sleep tight and wake up to a dreamy view. You’ll trek into the heart of valley and it will be quite the experience we assure you. The river flowing through the valley, the seasonal flowers and the magical view will make you speechless. Enjoy your time fullest in Dzukou Valley and then get back to your campsite, have your lunch and rest while you watch the most beautiful sunset of your life. In the evening , create unforgettable memories, sitting beside the fireplace and singing at top of your voice. Have your dinner late and take rest for the next day you have to bid goodbye to the majestic valley and trek back down to Kohima. It’s time that you say farewell to Nagaland but before that make sure to buy some Naga souvenir to make yourself remember everything.
When To Plan Dzukou Valley Trek
Dzukou Valley Trek can be done for through out the year. But to get the best view you should do it between June to October . But the trek is not same in every month .
In June
From April to August you will get the most beautiful view of Dzukou valley as the Dzukou Lilly Bloom . Moreover the whole valley become green as the rainy season starts.
In September to November
During this period the valley is less greenish and become dull. The view is still great and you can do camp easily nearby the basecamp.
