Adventurous Dzukou Valley Trek

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.