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Dzukou Valley is located in between the two well-known districts of two adjacent states. The valley lies between the Senapati District of Manipur and the Kohima District of Nagaland in northeast India. The valley is known for its tranquil environment and seasonal flowers which bloom according to the seasons. Dzukou Valley in winter turns out to be a wonderland as visitors get insights into the biodiversity of this region. The winter months offer clear blue skies and a visual transformation of the valley with a unique charm that brings visitors close to nature.
About Dzukou Valley In Winter
Photo: Arindam Saha / Unsplash
Dzukou Valley is located at an altitude of 8,045 feet above sea level. This valley is extravagantly famous for the wide range of flowers that bloom according to the season. The most famous flower in the valley is Dzukou Lily. The term ‘Dzukou’ when translated to the English language, means cold water. It is referred to as a cold stream that flows in a designated area near the valley. The place is ideal for trekking and attracts trekkers from every corner of the country.
How To Reach Dzukou Valley In Winter
Photo: নিৰঞ্জন বড়া / Wikimedia Commons
Travelling to Dzukou Valley in winter can be challenging but can be easily accessed via nearby towns.
From Kohima: The nearest airport to Kohima is the Dimapur Airport which is 74 kilometres away. Visitors can also reach Dimapur Railway Station and take a taxi to the base camp of Dzukou Valley.
Via Villages: The base camp for Dzukou Valley is either in the Jakhama Village or Viswema Village. Both the villages are near to the valley.
5 Places To Visit Near Dzukou Valley In Winter
Dzukou Valley in winter has a unique landscape that awaits tourists to embrace its glory. For a wholesome trip, visit these places near the valley that’ll leave you in awe.
1. Kohima War Cemetery
Photo: Rahul D’silva / Shutterstock
Kohima War Cemetery is a memorial dedicated to the soldiers who died in the Second World War in Kohima. According to the Commonwealth War Graves Commission, there is a count of 1,420 burials at this cemetery. Kohima War Cemetery is a well-maintained place with a manicured grassland which features a rose flower. The cemetery is the exact location where the world war was fought. There are two memorial crosses. The upper-end memorial commemorates the names of Hindus and Sikhs and the lower-end has burials of the British soldiers.
Location: Kohima, Nagaland 797001
Distance From Dzukou Valley: 25 km
2. Naga Heritage Village
Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons
Naga Heritage Village is a cultural and historical site located near Kohima and is renowned for the annual Hornbill Festival. The festival features food stalls, craft exhibitions, and dance performances. It is recommended to try local cuisine featuring authentic dishes which offer insights into the culinary heritage of the region. The village is an important place as it exhibits the lifestyle, culture, rituals, and architecture of the region. To soak in all the cultural vibes, make sure to visit Naga Heritage Village on your Dzukou Valley trip in winter.
Location: Kisama, Near Kohima, Nagaland 797001
Distance From Dzukou Valley: 14.8 km
3. Khonoma Village
Photo: Riddick_soad / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Khonoma Village has a rich culture and history that plays an important role in preserving the Naga Culture. The houses of this village are traditionally built with bamboo and wood. It allows tours through villages and surrounding areas of forests and hills. Many conservation efforts are made for this village and it is a model for special community-led conservation projects. The best time to visit this village is during October to April when the weather is mild and outdoor activities can be enjoyed to the fullest.
Location: Kohima District, Nagaland 797002
Distance From Dzukou Valley: 41 km
4. Kohima Museum
Photo: Dannie Jing / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Kohima Museum near Dzukou Valley showcases artefacts that take us back to the ancient times of Nagaland. The heritage of the state is still preserved via storehousing the tribal artefacts. The museum has a huge collection of tribal costumes, weapons and household items. It is not only a place of cultural significance but also serves as a site for education and knowledge. The museum also tells us about the events which have shaped the history of this region. Visitors can take a guided tour of the museum for a better understanding of the Naga Culture and its history.
Location: Museum Complex, Near Secretariat, Kohima, Nagaland 797001
Distance From Dzukou Valley: 20 km
5. Japfu Peak
Photo: Paulkopf / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Japfu Peak is considered to be the highest point in the state of Nagaland. It offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains, their peaks and plains. If lucky enough, tourists might get a glimpse of the Mt. Everest. While trekking to this peak, one has to go through trails of the dense forest. There are steep slopes and gradual climbs which might be challenging enough. The forested area around the peak is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. The peak not only holds natural significance but also has its roots listed in the folklore of the region.
Location: Japfu Range, Kohima District, Nagaland 797001
Distance From Dzukou Valley: 15.6 km
5 Things To Do In Dzukou Valley In Winter
Photo: Rohit Naniwadekar / Wikimedia Commons
Dzukou Valley in winter is just surreal. There are plenty of things to do in and around this valley that will add to your experience of the place and help you make the most of it.
Trekking: Trekking should be the top-most priority for all tourists in the region. The trails during the winter season might be icy so wear proper boots and carry sufficient equipment.
Embrace The Scenic Beauty: The valley is renowned because it showcases long lush green plains covered by mountains. The winter season brings a different charm to the place because of the blooming of several seasonal flowers.
Winter Camping: For trekkers, camping in winter is a must-do activity and experience. Camping can be done around the region.
Bird-watching: Dzukou Valley is home to both migratory and residential birds. Bird-watching activity is highly practised in this area.
Get A Permit: A permit is required to visit Dzukou Valley and its surroundings as they lie in the protected area. An ILP (Inner Line Permit) shall be obtained if you are an Indian Citizen. For foreigners, special permits are required.
Weather And Climate Of Dzukou Valley In Winter
Photo: Shogun / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The temperature of the Dzukou Valley in winter season ideally ranges from 0 degrees Celsius to 10 degrees Celsius. Early mornings and midnight can be severely cold when the temperature reaches a freezing point. There might be occasional frost or snowfall in the designated areas around this valley. From December to February, the snowfall makes the trails slippery so trekking during winter should be avoided.
Landscape And Scenery
Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons
The valley is home to multiple species of flowers and animals. It features several rare and endangered species, one being the Dzukou Lily. The valley is home to Blyth’s Tragopan, the state bird of Nagaland. Numerous Rhododendron species are found in Dzukou Valley that bloom according to the season. Animal species include the Asian Golden Cat, Hollock Gibbon and Serow. Winter is considered ideal for good photography in this region. Orchids grow at particular spots which simply add beauty to the valley.
Dzukou Valley’s peacefulness during the winter months is unaccountable. There are patches of snow on the terrains and plains of the valley. The meadows often get covered with a light frost and the wildflowers ooze out of the frost layers. The area around Dzukou Valley in winter becomes quiet. To experience this serenity, plan a trip to Nagaland with TripXL and create memories of a lifetime.
Cover Photo: Nilotpal Kalita / Unsplash
