The short answer
Kapamodzü Peak Trek: what visitors should know first
Worth a day or an overnight from Kohima, about 80 km away. The walk from Peak of Hope in Pfutsero is about 3.7 km after 504 steps; a rough road also reaches the summit, so older parents can drive up while others walk.
History and context
The story behind Kapamodzü Peak Trek
Kapamodzü is a table-top summit on the land of Zhavame village in Phek district. Local villagers and the village council have looked after it, and it has drawn steadily more visitors since about 2023.
Useful facts
Kapamodzü Peak Trek facts at a glance
- Location
- Zhavame, near Pfutsero, Phek district
- Altitude
- About 2,620 m (8,596 ft)
- Experience type
- Summit hike
- Known for
- Table-top summit and views to Saramati and Japfü
- Time or schedule
- Half-day hike from Pfutsero; road access to the top
Why it matters
Why Kapamodzü Peak Trek is worth your time
Kapamodzü is a good example of community-run tourism in Nagaland. The peak sits on Zhavame village land, and its trails and facilities have been built and protected by local people rather than by a large operator.
It also gives one of the widest views in the state with very little effort compared with Saramati or Japfü. For families, it is a rare high viewpoint where walkers and non-walkers can both reach the top.
Highlights
What not to miss
- 01
Table-top summit
A broad, flat top, unusual in Nagaland, with room to walk and camp.
- 02
Long-range views
Saramati to the east, Japfü to the south, and Kohima and Manipur's hills on clear days.
- 03
Sunset
Evening light over the ridges is the reason many visitors stay overnight.
Plan your visit
How to experience it
Kohima to Pfutsero is a hill drive through Chakhesang Naga country; Kapamodzü is about 80 km from Kohima and about 16 km, or 45 minutes' drive, beyond Pfutsero. The walking route used by Nagaland's tourism bodies starts at the Peak of Hope chapel in Pfutsero, climbs 504 steps, and then follows a trail of about 3.7 km through forest to the summit.
The top is a broad, flat ridge at about 2,620 m (8,596 ft), the highest table-top mountain in Nagaland. On a clear day the view reaches the Saramati range to the east, Japfü peak to the south, Kohima, and villages in Nagaland and Manipur. Sunset is the favourite time, so many visitors camp on the top; there are camping facilities and a small log-cabin restaurant.
Nagaland Tourism describes a three-day plan: drive to Zhavame village with a stop at Glory Peak in Pfutsero, stay in a village homestay, hike to the peak and camp, then return to Kohima. Rhododendron, wild roses, orchids, ferns and holly grow along the way.
Plan with confidence
Small decisions that make the visit easier.
- Start the walk at Peak of Hope in Pfutsero
- Hire a suitable vehicle if anyone prefers to drive up
- Carry warm layers; the top is windy and cold in winter
- Ask in Zhavame or Pfutsero about homestays and camping
- Carry all litter back down
Know before you go
Timing, access and comfort
- Area
- Zhavame village land, about 16 km from Pfutsero, Phek district
- Time needed
- Half a day from Pfutsero; a day or overnight from Kohima
- Best time
- October to April for clearer views; September to November for flowers
- Walking level
- Moderate
- Senior comfort
- The trail starts with 504 steps and then about 3.7 km through forest with some climbs, which is manageable for fit walkers but tiring for many older travellers. Parents who prefer not to walk can be driven to the top in a suitable vehicle, about 45 minutes from Pfutsero, and enjoy the views and the small restaurant while the family hikes.
- Tickets and access
- Visitors from outside Nagaland need a Nagaland Inner Line Permit; foreign nationals should check current permit rules. Any village or camping charges are collected locally. Confirm current fees locally.
Best for
Plan it with
Plan the practical part
Hotels near Kapamodzü Peak Trek
Staying close keeps journeys short — useful for early starts and for anyone who tires quickly.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices are live on the partner site.
Travelling with parents?
The trail starts with 504 steps and then about 3.7 km through forest with some climbs, which is manageable for fit walkers but tiring for many older travellers. Parents who prefer not to walk can be driven to the top in a suitable vehicle, about 45 minutes from Pfutsero, and enjoy the views and the small restaurant while the family hikes.
Raahzo can arrange an arrival or day companion who handles tickets, queues and pacing, and keeps the family updated.
See concierge supportFAQs
How far is Kapamodzü from Kohima?
About 80 km. It is about 16 km, or 45 minutes' drive, from Pfutsero.
Can you drive to the top?
Yes, a road reaches the summit, so non-walkers can go up by vehicle.
How long is the hike?
From Peak of Hope in Pfutsero it is 504 steps and then about 3.7 km of trail.
Sources and further reading
- Nagaland Tourism: Hike to Kapamodzü Peak
- Morung Express: Kapamodzü peak emerging as a local tourist hotspot
- Morung Express: NTA, NATO celebrate World Tourism Day 2026
Timings, fees and access rules change. Recheck with the official source before you travel.
.jpg)