Have you ever heard of a lake that is shaped like a footprint and has a mysterious legend behind it? If not, then you are in for a treat. Shilloi Lake is a natural wonder in Nagaland that is not only stunning to look at, but also rich in culture and history. It is said that the lake was formed by the tears of a grieving mother who lost her son in a war. The locals believe that the lake is sacred and that a spirit resides in it. Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure seeker, or a culture enthusiast, Shilloi Lake has something for everyone. In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to Shilloi Lake and its attractions, activities, and places to visit. You will also learn about the best time to visit, the accommodation options, and the tips and precautions to take while traveling to this lake. So, without further ado, let's dive into the limpid legend of Shilloi Lake.
How to Reach Shilloi Lake
Shilloi Lake is located in Pa, the state capital. The nearest airport is Dimapur, which is about 230 km from the lake. You can take a flight from Guwahati, Kolkata, Delhi, or Mumbai to Dimapur, and then hire a taxi or a bus to reach the lake. The road journey from Dimapur to Shilloi Lake takes about 7 hours and passes through scenic hills and valleys. Alternatively, you can also drive from Kohima to Shilloi Lake, which takes about 8 hours and covers a distance of 300 km. The road condition is not very good, so you need to be careful and cautious while driving. You also need to obtain a permit from the Nagaland House in Kohima or Dimapur to enter the state.
The best time to visit Shilloi Lake is from October to May, when the weather is pleasant and the lake is full of water.
Where to Stay Near Shilloi Lake
There are not many accommodation options near Shilloi Lake, as it is a remote and secluded place. However, you can find some hotels, resorts, homestays, and campsites in the nearby towns and villages, such as Pfutsero, Lanye, and Chizami. Some of the popular options are:
Shilloi Lake Resort: This is a budget-friendly resort that offers basic amenities and facilities, such as rooms, cottages, restaurant, parking, etc. The resort is located near the lake and offers a beautiful view of the water and the hills. The price per night is around Rs. 1000.
Pine View Homestay: This is a cozy and comfortable homestay that offers a home-like experience, such as rooms, kitchen, dining, living, etc. The homestay is located in Pfutsero, about 20 km from the lake, and offers a panoramic view of the town and the mountains. The price per night is around Rs. 1500.
Camp Shilloi: This is an adventurous and exciting option that offers camping facilities, such as tents, sleeping bags, bonfire, barbecue, etc. The campsite is located near the lake and offers a close encounter with nature and wildlife. The price per night is around Rs. 2000.
You can book your accommodation online or offline, depending on your preference and availability. You can also avail of some special offers, discounts, or packages that the accommodation providers may offer, such as free breakfast, complimentary activities, etc.
What to Do at Shilloi Lake
Shilloi Lake is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, as it offers a variety of activities that you can enjoy at or near the lake, such as:
Boating: You can rent a boat and paddle around the lake, enjoying the serene and scenic beauty of the water and the hills. You can also spot some birds and fish in the lake, such as kingfishers, herons, carp, etc. The cost of boating is around Rs. 100 per hour, and the equipment, guides, and safety measures are provided by the local authorities.
Fishing: You can try your luck and skill at fishing in the lake, as it is home to some exotic and rare fish species, such as the golden mahseer, the chocolate mahseer, etc. You can also cook and eat your catch, or release it back into the water. The cost of fishing is around Rs. 200 per hour, and the equipment, guides, and safety measures are provided by the local authorities.
Hiking: You can explore the surrounding hills and forests by hiking on the trails and paths that lead to some amazing viewpoints and attractions, such as the Glory Peak, the Rhododendron Sanctuary, the Dzudu Lake, etc. You can also witness some flora and fauna in the area, such as orchids, ferns, deer, monkeys, etc. The cost of hiking is around Rs. 300 per hour, and the equipment, guides, and safety measures are provided by the local authorities.
While doing the activities, you need to follow some tips and precautions, such as:
- Check the weather and the water level before doing any activity, as they may change suddenly and affect your safety and enjoyment.
- Respect the local culture and beliefs, as the lake is considered sacred and holy by the locals, and do not litter or pollute the lake or its surroundings.
- Carry enough water, food, and clothing, as there are not many shops or facilities near the lake, and the temperature may vary depending on the season and time of the day.
What to See at Shilloi Lake
Shilloi Lake is not only a place to do activities, but also a place to see and learn about the lake and its surroundings, such as:
The Lake: The lake itself is a sight to behold, as it is shaped like a footprint and has a depth of about 15 meters. The lake is surrounded by green hills and pine trees, and has a calm and clear water that reflects the sky and the clouds. The lake is also the source of a stream that flows into the Doyang River, which is a tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
The Legend: The legend behind the lake is a fascinating and intriguing one, as it tells the story of a mother and her son who were involved in a war between two tribes. The son was killed in the war, and the mother cried so much that her tears formed the lake. The locals believe that the spirit of the son resides in the lake, and that he protects and blesses the lake and its visitors. The locals also believe that the lake has healing and curative powers, and that anyone who drinks or bathes in the lake will be cured of any disease or ailment.
The Culture: The culture of the lake and its surroundings is a rich and diverse one, as it reflects the traditions and customs of the local tribes, such as the Chakhesang, the Khezha, the Pochury, etc. The locals are friendly and hospitable, and they welcome the visitors with warmth and generosity. The locals also celebrate some festivals and events at the lake, such as the Hornbill Festival, the Sekrenyi Festival, the Tuluni Festival, etc. These festivals showcase the art, music, dance, cuisine, and costumes of the local tribes, and provide a glimpse into their lifestyle and worldview.
While visiting and seeing the lake and its surroundings, you need to follow some tips and precautions, such as:
- Respect the local culture and beliefs, as the lake is considered sacred and holy by the locals, and do not litter or pollute the lake or its surroundings.
- Dress appropriately and modestly, as the locals are conservative and traditional, and do not wear anything that may offend or disrespect them.
- Ask for permission before taking pictures or videos of the lake or the locals, as they may not like or appreciate it, and respect their privacy and dignity.
Conclusion
Shilloi Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves nature, adventure, and culture. It is a place where you can experience the beauty and the mystery of the lake and its legend, the fun and the thrill of the activities, and the charm and the diversity of the culture. It is a place where you can create some unforgettable memories and stories, and where you can discover some hidden gems and secrets. So, what are you waiting for? Book your trip to Shilloi Lake today, and explore the limpid legend of Nagaland. And don't forget to share your feedback and ratings on this article, and to check out more content on Shilloi Lake or Nagaland on Tripoto. Thank you for reading, and happy traveling.
