Vishü Rita Krocha
Kohima | November 1
Recognizing that Dzükou Valley is a hidden gem and one of Nagaland's most prized possessions, “Dzükou Valley Festival”, a first-of-its-kind event was held from October 19-25, 2018 with the view to also give an opportunity to people to experience Dzükou Valley like never before, while trying to create environmental consciousness among all campers.
The seven-day festival, showcasing the pristine beauty of the valley and promoting the need to enjoy nature responsibly drew as many as 270 adventure lovers and travellers from different parts of the world. An initiative of the Department of Tourism and co-hosted by the Nagaland Tourism Association and India Trail, the festival was marked by exciting activities such as exploration treks at the valley, bonfire, food, story-telling, star-gazing and music. One of the main attractions of this festival apart from the mystic views and glorious sunsets was also the different varieties of flowers that bloom at the valley all year round.
Among the travellers that comprised of all age groups were an eight year old as the youngest camper and a 67-year old. Altogether there were 7 children, who completed the trek enthusiastically. Facilities provided during the festival included pick up from Kohima and drop from Dzükou along with guides, tents, sleeping bags and meals at a very affordable rate. There were at least 2 guides and porters carrying fresh supplies for the festival on a daily basis. The average trek for the travellers took about 3 hours. A total number of 15 porters and 5 guides were engaged for the weeklong festival.
Two travellers from Dimapur who were part of the Dzükou Valley Festival commented that they have been planning to visit Dzükou for the last twenty years and were elated to have made it finally. Among others, travellers included Actor Anshuman Malhotra and two women from England. There were also artists performing at the Valley during the Festival.
Mention may be made here that the festival was successfully held with the support and cooperation of the Southern Angami Public Organisation (SAPO), Southern Angami Youth Organisation (SAYO), Nagaland Association for Adventure, Mountaineering and Education (NAAME) and Logistics of the camping was initiated and handled by the India Trail team. Two new bathroom donations were made by the DWSM, Kohima Rural Division and PHE Departments of Nagaland.
The Nagaland Tourism Association further told The Morung Express that it aims to organise such events in the future in collaboration with different organisations that share mutual goals which will not only help travellers explore Nagaland extensively but also help boost the tourism sector in the state.
