Enjoy Serene Beauty Of Dzukou Valley: A Trekker’s Guide!

The Dzukou Valley is one of the largest treks that spans around the Nagaland-Manipur interstate boundary. It is considered to be the paradise on Earth. This is also referred to as the Shangri-La of the Northeast.

The valley is able to offer a breathtaking view of nature. It is a beauty to behold. This place is no less than a fairytale.  This valley is surrounded by amazing hillocks, verdant glens, and rive-cut ravines on all sides.

Over time, it has been explored by the tourists to a great extent. The picturesque beauty offers jaw-dropping scenery and this is actually loved by the tourists to a great extent. It is also referred to as the Valley of the Flowers.

Let us explore more about this wonderful heaven on Earth in the following way:

Location

The valley is located near the Nagaland-Manipur border towards the southernmost part of the Kohima district of Nagaland. This valley extends to an area of 27 square kilometers. The valley is situated at an elevation of around 2452 m above sea level.

The valley is surrounded by lower-lying hill areas which are very beautiful to witness. The highest peak of Dzukou Valley is Mt Iso. It has a height of 2994 m. 

Climatic Conditions

Dzukou Valley is one of the coldest places on Earth. Despite being located near the tropical zone, this valley enjoys a cold climate throughout the year. The temperature of this area is basically around 16-31 degree Celsius in the summer season and is reduced to 4 degree Celsius during the winter season.

The mini stream that flows across the valley has cold water throughout the year. These cold water currents are the reason for the cold weather in the valley all around the year. It was recently in the year 2022, that it snowed for the first time in this valley.

Best Time For Dzukou Valley Trek

The best time for the Dzukou Valley trek is around the end of June till the beginning of September. The weather is cold but tolerable and at the same time, the slopes are not at all slippery. The trek is very safe and considered to be the best for the trekkers.

Dzukou Valley Trek Route

The route to reach the Dzukou Valley trek is very easy. The different steps which must be undertaken by every trekker include the following steps:

• Reach Kohima: As a first step, all the trekkers must reach Kohima which is located at a distance of 80 km from Dimapur. Dimapur enjoys air and rail connectivity in the north-east and hence it is very accessible. 
• Kohima to Dzukou Trekkers’ Hut: The trekkers can commence their journey from NH 39 from Kohima to Zakhama Check Post. Once they reach a small tea stall, the trekkers have to walk along the stream up to 2 km through the thick forests of bamboo and deodar. This way will take the trekkers to the Dzukou Trekkers’ Hut. It is a small hut that stretches along the vast concrete floor. Trekkers can also take a rest by relaxing for some time in a dormitory.
• Explore Dzukou Valley: Trekkers can camp at the Trekkers’ Hut and even explore the Ghost Caves located nearby. There are beautiful grasslands located nearby as well to enjoy and relish the beauty of nature.
• Dzukou Valley to Viswema Village: This is the descending trail of the village. This trail will take the trekkers toward the Trekkers’ Point. A vehicle can be arranged from this location and the visitors can basically spend some time at the community hall road of the village for a considerable period of time.
• Reach the Japfu Peak Base: From the last point, the trekkers can easily head northwest for 3 kilometers towards the main road. There will be a huge forest which the trekkers are required to cross. The forest will end with a signboard marked by ‘Japfu Peak’. There will be water springs located in this area as well. 
• Japfu Base Camp: This camp is located at an altitude of 6000 ft. It basically takes 6 hours to reach this place from the last spot. There are beautiful hills and villages located near this base camp. The beauty of nature is worth praising. 

Things To Remember In  Dzukou Valley Trek

While the trekkers are planning their trip to the Dzukou Valley trek, it is important to take note of the following important information:

• Firstly, it is advisable to make sure that an inner line permit has been obtained from Nagaland. This permit is used by the Nagaland House in Kolkata. This can be issued only after a small fee is paid corresponding to the same. 
• Secondly, according to the rules and regulations issued by the Government of Nagaland, the usage of plastic and plastic products is strictly prohibited. The one who violates these rules is required to pay a hefty fine and at the same time, regular and continuous violation might result in imprisonment as well.
• Thirdly, it is important to carry cash along with you as the network coverage area is very weak. 

Food And Accommodation

There are different types of local shops and vendors that prepare delicious food from the northeast. They are located across various parts of the valley.

Attractions Near Dzukou Valley

There are different types of attractions which are located near this area. The list of the same has been given in the following way:

Japfu Peak

This is the peak that can be easily accessed through the Japfu base camp. This peak is very beautiful and is covered with green bushes.

Naga Heritage Village

This village is located towards the east of Kohima. It is sparsely populated and harbors the tradition of Nagaland.

Kohima War Cemetery

This is the war cemetery located east of Kohima. This can be easily accessed by the trekkers.

Intanki Wildlife Sanctuary

This is one of the most famous hotspots of diverse flora and fauna located 5 km to the east of Kohima War Cemetery.

Conclusion

So if you are willing to visit this amazing place, then this guide will be really helpful in planning your complete itinerary in this respect.

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