Dzukou Valley, Kohima, Nagaland India

The Dzükou Valley is a valley located at the border of the Indian states of Nagaland and Manipur and becomes resplendent with lilies, red and white rhododendron and wild flowers towards the end of spring and winter season. This valley is well known for its natural beauty. Dzükou derives its meaning from the Angami/Mao word which translates to "Cold Water" referring to the ice cold stream that flows through the valley. It is situated at an altitude of 2438 m above sea level, behind the Japfü Peak located in Nagaland. The rare Dzükou lily is found only in this valley.

Spring is the best time to visit Dzukou Valley as the place comes to life with wild herbs and flowers of different shades and species adding sparkle to the landscape. Lillies, conitum, euphorbia and rhododendron can be seen all around here. It is estimated that about 360 different varieties of orchids grow in this valley. This place is even worth a visit during the winter as it represents a featureless desert due to extreme cold in this part of the world.