Explore Nagaland: Dzukou Valley, Khonoma, and Kohima

5N/6D

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Overview

On this trip to the Naga Hills, you will meet the Angami tribe, one of the major communities in the region. Known in history as skilled warriors, the Angami people also have a deep understanding of farming and land use. This is clearly seen in their terraced fields, which cover much of the landscape. Agriculture is their main occupation, and their skill in growing crops brings vibrant colors to the farms and homes you will pass by. As you explore the Eastern Himalayan Range, expect to be amazed by both the beauty of the land and the traditions of its people.

Trip highlights include exploring the historic village of Khonoma, where you can enjoy fresh organic meals in Asia’s first green village. You’ll also trek to the stunning Dzükou Valley, hike through the peaceful hills and streams of Dzüleke, and visit the World War II memorial. Don’t forget to spend time in Kohima, browsing the local markets, relaxing in cozy cafés, and sampling treats from the town’s charming bakeries.

Itinerary

Meet our team in Dimapur in the morning.
Drive up to the Naga Hills - about a 3-hour journey to Khonoma.
Check into your stay and enjoy a quick lunch on arrival.
Explore Khonoma village on foot, known as Asia’s first Green Village.
Learn about terraced farming and see flowers and vegetables grown in every home.
You might even get to harvest fresh vegetables for dinner with your hosts.
Carry some tea and stroll to a nearby stream, then return before sunset.
Help your host prepare a delicious Angami meal using local ingredients.
Enjoy dinner and pick up a few traditional cooking tips along the way.
Evening at leisure in the peaceful village setting.

Start your day by 7:00 AM, following a light, early breakfast.
Join a heritage walk with local experts to explore Khonoma’s rich history.
Learn about Angami customs, traditions, and community life.
Discover local crafts like woodwork and bamboo weaving.
Visit morungs and other unique examples of vernacular architecture.
After the walk, bid farewell to your hosts in Khonoma.
Drive for about 1 hour to reach Dzüleke, a quiet and dreamy village.
Meet your hosts and settle into your cozy stay—one of just 35 homes in the village.
Spend the afternoon exploring Dzüleke—go forest bathing or hike to a nearby waterfall.
Soak in the serene, untouched beauty of the place.
In the evening, unwind with some traditional brews and prepare for a restful sleep.

After breakfast, begin your day in Kohima, the capital of Nagaland.
Visit the region’s only World War II Memorial to learn about the Naga people’s role in the war.
Spend the rest of the morning exploring the city at your own pace.
Discover local eateries, markets, and craft shops (we’ll share our top picks once you're booked).
If you're prepping for tomorrow’s trek, now’s a good time to pick up any essentials.
After lunch, drive to Kigwema, a peaceful village nearby.
Take a short orientation walk with our local team to get a feel for the village.
Settle into your stay and enjoy a leisurely evening before the trek ahead.

Start early—this is the most challenging day of the journey.
Begin your trek to Dzükou Valley, a mystical landscape shared by Nagaland and Manipur.
Hike through lush forests and rolling hills, often compared to the Valley of Flowers in Uttarakhand.
The first 4 hours will take you to the basecamp—pace yourself and take breaks as needed.
After reaching basecamp, trek further into the valley and check into the dormitory.
Choose a quiet spot to relax and take in the stunning views.
Help your local guides or trip leader prepare a warm dinner.
In the evening, gather around and listen to stories and legends of the valley.
Enjoy a drink or two and stay warm as you wind down for the night.

Wake up early to the breathtaking views of Dzükou Valley.
Sip on a warm cup of tea and take in the peaceful morning.
Spend quiet time sunbathing, reflecting, and absorbing the vast beauty around you.
When ready, begin your trek back down to Kigwema.
Enjoy a meal and bid a warm farewell to your local hosts.
Continue onward to Kohima by road.
Spend your evening at leisure - visit a café, stroll the streets, or simply rest.

After breakfast, begin your journey back to the plains of Dimapur.
From Dimapur, continue onward to your next destination or head home.
Carry with you beautiful memories and new friendships from your Nagaland adventure.
This chapter ends, but we hope it sparks many more trips to this amazing region!

What's included

Stay in comfortable, clean and hygienic accommodation (twin/triple sharing)
Transport to and from Dimapur airport/Railway Station in Swift Dzire/Innova/Force Traveller
Breakfast on all days except Day 1
Dinner on Day 1, 2, 3, and 4
Lunch on Day 2, 4 and 5
Designated tour leader
Permit, Parking and toll charges
Driver allowance, food and accommodation

What's excluded

Airfare charges
All food and beverages costs apart from the ones mentioned above
Any camera fees
Hotel and driver tips (we request you to encourage our locals with tips for their hard work)
Entry ticket fees to Museums, Parks, etc.
Any personal expenditure (Toiletries, medicines, etc.)
Cost incidental to any change in the itinerary/stay on account of flight cancellation due to bad weather, ill health, roadblocks and/or any factors beyond control.
Anything not specifically mentioned under the head "Inclusions".

Good to know

What time does the trip start and end?

The arrival on Day 1 has to be a maximum of 1:30 pm. The group will depart from the airport by 2:00 pm at the latest. Any arrivals post that (due to timings/flight delays), will have to get to destination 1 at their own expense. We highly recommend flying in a day prior if the flights don't match this timings. The trip ends at Dimapur Airport or Station at 10:30 am. Flight out can be anytime post noon.

How do I get the ILP?

Relax! We got your back for that. We will get your Inner Line Permit made and is included in the package.

What type of Bag should I carry?

A 60 litre backpack would be handy. For your trek to Dzukou Valley, a smaller day bag would be useful. The rest of your stuff will remain at Jakhama while you explore the valley.

What type of properties are we staying at?

We'll be staying at simple homestays, a campsite and a very basic dormitory throughout the trip. None of the properties on the trip are boutique/luxurious. They are all clean, comfortable and hygienic and have been vetted by our team!

The property at Dzukou Valley is extremely basic and is the only option, unless you're looking to carry your own tent to pitch.

What are the meals that are provided and what about the ones not included?

Breakfast will be served at the properties that we are staying at. Most of these places provide simple breakfast that ranges from Parathas to Sandwiches, Bread, Butter, and Omelettes.
The lunches and dinners that are included are usually simple home cooked Khasi meals (Rice, Dal, Vegetables, Meat, Pickles) that are apt while hiking or engaging in water activities.
Other meals can be ordered at the place of stay or nearby restaurants.

Room Sharing

Rooms are shared on twin sharing basis. In case you are a solo traveller, you will be paired up with another solo traveller of the same gender.

How much money to carry?

While most of your expenses are taken care in the trip cost, an additional Rs. 1,000 per day (Upper limit) would be more than enough for all your expenses.

What are the current road conditions and driving time?

The roads in Meghalaya are some of the best hill roads in the country with beautiful views. Chances of motion sickness are much lesser than usual mountain roads as the number of windy roads are much lesser.

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#mountains

#camping

#hiking