Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Best nearby Destinations & Day Trips

Dimapur, the gateway to Nagaland, is surrounded by scenic landscapes, cultural villages, and historical sites that make for great day trips. Whether you're looking for trekking, wildlife spotting, or cultural experiences, here are the best nearby destinations to explore!

1. Kohima  (74 km | 2.5 – 3 hours by road)

Why Visit?
✔ Nagaland’s capital city, rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.
✔ Famous for the Kohima War Cemetery, Hornbill Festival, and Dzukou Valley Trek.

Things to Do:

• Visit Kohima War Cemetery (WWII memorial).
• Explore Kisama Heritage Village (Hornbill Festival venue).
• Trek to Dzukou Valley (Valley of Flowers of the Northeast).

 Best Time to Visit: October – April
 How to Get There: Shared sumo taxis (₹300-₹400) or private car (₹2,500-₹3,500).

2. Chümoukedima & Waterfalls  (14 km | 30 minutes by road)

Why Visit?
✔ Traditional Angami Naga village with hilltop views.
✔ Home to the beautiful Chümoukedima Waterfalls.

Things to Do:

• Visit the old Chümoukedima Fort & Viewpoint.
• Trek to Chümoukedima Waterfalls for a scenic experience.
• Explore local homestays and Naga food experiences.

 Best Time to Visit: October – March
 Entry Fee: ₹30 per person

3. Intanki National Park  (65 km | 2 hours by road)

Why Visit?
✔ A protected wildlife sanctuary, home to elephants, leopards, wild buffalo, and rare birds.
✔ Ideal for wildlife safaris, nature walks, and birdwatching.

Things to Do:

• Take a wildlife safari to see rare animals and birds.
• Trek through the dense tropical forests and hilly terrain.
• Enjoy camping and nature photography.

 Best Time to Visit: November – April
 Entry Fee: ₹50 per person

4. Dzukou Valley  (85 km | 3-4 hours by road & trek)

Why Visit?
✔ Northeast India’s most beautiful trekking spot.
✔ Famous for rolling green hills, seasonal flowers, and the rare Dzukou Lily.

Things to Do:

• Trek to Dzukou Valley (4-5 hours hike).
• Camp overnight and watch sunrise & stargazing.
• Spot rare Himalayan birds and orchids.

 Best Time to Visit: June – September (for flowers), October – March (for trekking)
 Entry Fee: ₹50 per person

5. Diezephe Craft Village  (13 km | 30 minutes by road)

Why Visit?
✔ A handicraft village known for wood carvings, bamboo crafts, and traditional Naga shawls.
✔ Great place to watch artisans at work and buy authentic Naga handicrafts.

Things to Do:

• Explore handwoven textiles and bamboo handicrafts.
• Watch artisans making wood carvings and traditional tools.
• Buy souvenirs like tribal jewelry and woven baskets.

 Best Time to Visit: Year-round
 Entry Fee: Free

6. Medziphema  (35 km | 1 hour by road)

Why Visit?
✔ A scenic valley town known for farmlands, pineapple plantations, and eco-tourism.
✔ Home to Nagaland University & Central Institute of Horticulture.

Things to Do:

• Visit fruit farms & organic vegetable markets.
• Enjoy countryside walks & nature photography.
• Try locally grown pineapples, oranges, and passion fruit.

 Best Time to Visit: September – March

7. Ruzaphema Market  (5 km | 15 minutes by road)

Why Visit?
✔ A vibrant women-run market selling handwoven shawls, tribal jewelry, and bamboo products.
✔ Perfect for shopping Naga souvenirs and traditional fabrics.

Things to Do:

• Buy authentic Naga handicrafts and accessories.
• Explore the colorful local produce and spice stalls.
• Interact with local women artisans and traders.

 Best Time to Visit: Year-round

8. Japfu Peak  (Near Kohima | 3-4 hours by road & trek)

Why Visit?
✔ The second-highest peak in Nagaland (3,048 m), offering breathtaking sunrise views.
✔ Home to the world’s tallest rhododendron tree (109 feet high).

Things to Do:

• Trek to the summit (4-5 hours, moderate difficulty).
• Camp overnight and enjoy sunrise views.
• Explore Japfu Village and meet the local Angami Naga people.

 Best Time to Visit: October – March

9. Rangapahar Wildlife Sanctuary  (5 km | 20 minutes by road)

Why Visit?
✔ A small but rich wildlife sanctuary known for rare birds, deer, and medicinal plants.
✔ Best for nature walks, birdwatching, and photography.

Things to Do:

• Take a guided nature walk through the sanctuary.
• Spot hornbills, peacocks, and barking deer.
• Visit the eco-tourism center for information on local biodiversity.

 Best Time to Visit: October – April
 Entry Fee: ₹50 per person

 Best Day Trip Recommendation

For Adventure:  Trek to Dzukou Valley
For Wildlife:  Explore Intanki National Park
For Culture & Handicrafts:  Visit Diezephe Craft Village
For Relaxation:  See Chümoukedima Waterfalls
For Shopping:  Explore Ruzaphema Market

With historical sites, nature escapes, and cultural villages, Dimapur offers some of Nagaland’s best day trips. Whether you’re looking for trekking, shopping, or wildlife adventures, there’s something for everyone!