Camp Under The Stars and Refresh Your Souls By Trekking to the Picturesque Dzükou Valley in Nagaland | Rohan Abraham of India Trail Talks About Their Upcoming “Dzükou Fest”

We all know that city life can be stressful – and not only that, routine life anywhere can get depressing at times. We are also well aware that an escape to nature is what we need. But it’s easier said than done. For most of us, planning a getaway is not an easy task. For instance, a trip to the much talked about Dzükou valley in Nagaland may seem inaccessible to most of us. That’s when boutique travelers like “India Trail” provides a convenient solution. Known as the travel experts for the beautiful and mostly unexplored region of North East India, the guys at India Trail have been doing their bit to allow people from all over to experience the natural wonders of the region.

Today we have co-founder of India Trail Rohan K Abraham to talk about their upcoming camping trip “Dzükou Fest” to enlighten us about the place, the camp and everything you need to know, to finally plan your trip to Dzükou Valley – the most beautiful trekking spots in the North East of India.

Rohan Abraham of India Trail chats with R&L about the upcoming “Dzükou Fest” – a music, camping and trekking festival all set to take place this October from 19-25 in the breathtaking Dzükou Valley in Nagaland. He talks about all the things we can look forward to, tips for first-time trekkers and why Dzükou has always been his favorite.

Pictured: Rohan K Abraham en route to Ziro.

Hi Rohan. We’re so happy to have you back with us! How have you been and what makes Dzükou Valley a must visit?

Dzükou is undoubtedly one of the best trekking spots in the North East of India. Beautiful flowers are in abundance and spread across the valley. With clear blue skies and white clouds engulfing the luxuriant greens… It’s truly a visual treat! One can’t help but sweep into tranquility in this divine place.

Breathtaking view of the Dzükou Valley in Nagaland

Breathtaking view of the Dzükou Valley in Nagaland

Oh Wow. So how many times have you been to Dzükou?

I’ve been there about 4 times, all during different seasons. Flowers bloom in abundance during springtime, but I personally feel that the best time to visit Dzukou is during the monsoons – when the greenery of the valley is at its finest. In the winter, the valley gives off a sunny yellow hue, which is equally gorgeous.

“I personally feel that the best time to visit Dzükou is during the monsoons – when the greenery of the valley is at its finest. In the winter, the valley gives off a sunny yellow hue, which is equally gorgeous.”

Visitor Asu soaking in the Picturesque View of Dzükou Valley

Joyce Mozhui trekking to Dzükou Valley

Joyce Mozhui trekking to Dzükou Valley

For those of us who have never been to Dzükou, what are we missing out on? What is it that is truly unique about the valley?

From my own experience, I have found that no other place in Nagaland is more exhilarating and breathtaking than Dzükou Valley. The unending, rolling hills of lush green with fog hovering over the valleys is simply a piece of heaven on Earth.

Is it safe to trek to Dzukou during the rainy season and is it recommended for beginners?

Yes, it’s totally safe to visit Dzükou during the rainy season too, as long as you’re well accustomed to the areas. For beginners, I would strongly suggest taking a tour guide along.

So tell us more about India Trail’s upcoming event- “Dzükou Fest.”

The ” Dzükou Fest” is going to be the first of its kind – camping and trekking through the beautiful valleys along with engrossing adventure-packed activities. Initially set for August, we were forced to postpone it due to unavoidable circumstances. The dates are now set for October 19 till October 25.

What are the main highlights of the festival that we can look forward to?

From trekking through the valley to late night campfire stories and sleeping under the stars, the festival will include music nights, landscaping, photography, hiking, nature walks, camping and more.

Wake up to this view at the Dzükou Fest Nagaland this October

Rootsandleisure_DzukouValley_IndiaTrail1

Wake up to this view at the Dzükou Fest Nagaland this October

Dzükou Valley Nagaland

What should campers carry with them? What are your tips for first-timers?

Campers should carry their own water bottles, snacks and extra changes of clothes, as per their convenience. We suggest bringing along raincoats and trekking shoes for the trekkers to keep warm and dry in the intermittent light rainfall and dewdrops.

What would be the temperature in Dzükou during the fest?

During the festival month i.e., October, temperatures might drop down to a minimum of 13°C and maximum temperature will range between 22 to 23 degrees.

So how can we plan this trip to Dzükou with India Trail? What are the package charges and what is included in the travel package?

We have designed special prices to allow as many people to experience the wonders of Dzükou valley. Each package costs INR 999 + taxes per person for a night.

“The package includes food, tents, mats and transport facilities. Daily pick-up will be at 6 a.m from the Red Cross Building, Kohima and departure (for non-campers) will be at 2 p.m from the valley. Also, keeping in mind the natural environment of Dzükou, India Trail ensures an eco-friendly festival. Use and burning of any plastic is strongly discouraged. Also littering and plucking of flowers is a strict no-no.”

The campsite at Dzükou Valley

The campsite at Dzükou Valley

Team India Trail en route to Dzokou Valley.

Team India Trail en route to Dzükou Valley

A glimpse of Dzukou Valley.

A glimpse of Dzükou Valley

What is the best time to visit Dzukou Valley?

Honestly, there is no bad time to visit Dzükou. Every season is a good time. If you want to sight the rare Rhododendron Lily, which grows only in Dzükou, July would be the best time to visit. But even if you miss that, Dzükou is glorious through the year. The only minus point about visiting Dzükou in winter is that the temperature drops down a lot which makes camping almost impossible.