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Dzukou Valley is a scenic valley located between the two states of Nagaland and Manipur. The valley is particularly perched on the border between the states. Dzukou Valley in December is worth experiencing for the temperatures are absolutely cold. Considering the days as mild and nights as chilled, the valley is a paradise. The plains are clearer with cool air breezes moving through the surroundings. The temperatures drop to a limit but make it an ideal time for trekking and hiking expeditions.
How To Reach Dzukou Valley
Photo: tsvetomit_lazarov_isky / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The region of Dzukou Valley is only accessible via two trekking routes from Nagaland, one from Zakhama Village and another from Viswema Village.
By Air: The nearest airport to the valley is the Dimapur Airport of Nagaland. From there, board a bus or hire a taxi which takes you to Zakhama Village or Viswema Village.
By Rail: The nearest railway station to the valley is the Dimapur Railway Station and Chümoukedima Shokhüvi Railway Station. Take a local bus or hire a taxi that takes you to Zakhama or Viswema.
By Trek: The trek trail from Viswema Village is more common as it passes through dense forests and covers 8 km kilometres. The trail through Zakhama Village is 7.1 kilometres and is less preferred as it takes the trekkers through diverse landscapes and steep slopes.
Places To Visit Near Dzukou Valley In December
There are many places to visit near the valley that offer insights into the culture of the respective states.
1. Puliebadze
Photo: Udayaditya Barua / Unsplash
Puliebadze is a beautiful mountain peak that offers breathtaking vistas of Kohima City. The peak stands at an elevation of 2,296 metres above sea level. Puliebadze is in the centre of Pulie Badze Wildlife Sanctuary. The peak is a popular spot for trekking and hiking. It is mostly visited from October to March to avoid interrupting rainfalls. The wildlife sanctuary is home to multiple flora and fauna species including the rarest ones.
Location: Kohima District, Nagaland
Distance From The Valley: 10.3 km
2. Japfu Peak
Photo: Alono Thorie / Wikimedia Commons
Japfu Peak in winter offers a foggy view of the Kohima District. Tourists get mesmerised by the clouded sky on the top, followed by mountain peaks and plains which are straw-coloured. The peak is located on Japfu Mountain, the fourth-largest mountain in Nagaland. It is at an altitude of 3,048 metres above sea level. Japfu Peak and Mt. Japfu are recorded in the Guinness World Record as they feature the tallest Rhododendron Tree in the world.
Location: Kohima District, Nagaland
Distance From The Valley: 4.7 km
3. Zakhama Village
Photo: Zephyrka / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Zakhama or Jakhama Village is a picturesque spot near the valley and is home to a diverse range of flower species. Zakhama Village is native to a famous tribe called the Angami Naga Tribe. For those who want to experience the traditional Naga Culture, a trip to this village is a must. Visitors should try the local cuisine of this village for a memorable experience.
Location: Kohima District, Nagaland
Distance From The Valley: 7 km
4. Dimapur
Photo: Himsiringdao / Wikimedia Commons
Dimapur is home to the very famous ‘Kachari Ruins,’ which are remnants of the Kachari Civilisation. The ruins are considered to be the fort ruins dating back to the 10th to 12th century. There are ruins of huge pavilions, temples and gateways at the site. Traditional and local architectural styles have been used at the site which might be prevalent during that time. Kachari Ruins are maintained by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) till date.
Location: Dimapur District, Nagaland, India
Distance From The Valley: 50 km
5. Kohima War Cemetery
Photo: Rahul D’silva / Shutterstock
Kohima War Cemetery is a cemetery dedicated to the soldiers who lost their lives in the Second World War. There are approximately 1,420 burials at this cemetery, dedicated to the Hindu and Sikh warriors who lost their lives as well. The upper-end memorial crosses are dedicated to Hindu and Sikh warriors and are cremated as per their religious rites. The lower-end memorial crosses are dedicated to the British warriors who have been cremated.
Location: Kohima War Cemetery, Kohima, Kohima District, Nagaland, India
Distance From The Valley: 13 km
Where To Stay
Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
As the bottom of the valley freezes at night, there are multiple base sites for camping and an overnight stay. There are local guesthouses, homestays and dormitories in the villages of Zakhama and Viswema. Some homestay options include Abu Homestay, Akim Homestay and Hotel Ariel. Other options include Dzukou E Resort, Japfu Homestay and Vicha Paying Guest.
Where To Eat
Photo: Rupasree / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
There are multiple dining options in Viswema, Kohima and Zakhama. After trekking through the valley, trekkers can head to any of the options: Sorshia and Co Cafe, Yaotsu’s Pure Veg and Jad Restaurant near Viswema in Kohima. In Zakhama, yummy delights are served in Rhododendron Restaurant and Naga Kitchen.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Inu Etc / Wikimedia Commons
Visiting the valley is indeed an unforgettable experience. It requires careful planning and several other factors to be considered:
- It is recommended to wear comfortable and sturdy shoes while trekking through the icy roads, steep slopes and misty trails.
- Trekkers might need an ILP (Inner Line Permit) to explore the valley. The permits can be booked online.
- Visitors should respect the tribals’ culture and customs and ask permission before clicking photographs.
For nature enthusiasts or a solace seeker, Dzukou Valley in December promises a unique experience. It takes you away from the city’s shore and bustles and puts you in a serene environment. It seems as if the valley has transformed itself with a cool air breeze and mist-covered hills in the surroundings. Book a trip to Manipur and Nagaland with TripXL to experience the magic of winter in the valley.
Cover Photo: Arindam Saha / Unsplash
