Dzukou Valley
The valley of flowers of the Northeast
Straddling the Nagaland–Manipur border at around 2,450 metres, Dzukou is a rolling, otherworldly valley of emerald grassland cut by a meandering stream, most famous for the wild Dzukou lily and the carpets of seasonal flowers that bloom across it in summer. Reaching it means a stiff trek up through forest to the rim, then a descent into the valley — an effort rewarded with one of the most beautiful high landscapes in India.
Most trekkers climb from Viswema or Zakhama near Kohima, staying overnight in the basic rest house or camping to catch the valley at dawn, when frost or mist gives way to sun across the grass. It is cold at the top year-round, and the reward is silence, space and, in season, flowers to the horizon.
What to see & do
- The rolling flower-filled grassland and the Dzukou stream
- The rare Dzukou lily and seasonal blooms (June–August)
- Sunrise over the valley from the rim
- The cross-border views towards Japfu peak
Getting to Dzukou Valley
| How to reach | Trailheads at Viswema and Zakhama, about an hour from Kohima; then a 3–4 hour trek to the valley. |
| Best time | Flowers June to August (wet underfoot); clear, cold trekking October to March. |
| Permit | An Inner Line Permit is required for Nagaland. |
| Good to know | Carry warm layers and rain protection whatever the season, and camp or stay overnight to see the valley at first light. |
More to explore
Khonoma
Angami village, near Kohima
India's first green village, with a fierce and proud history.
Longwa, Mon
Mon district, Myanmar border
The Konyak village where the chief's house straddles two countries.
Yuksom & Khangchendzonga
West Sikkim
Sikkim's first capital and the gateway to the Goecha La trek.