Nagi Waterfall deep Dzongu Lepcha reserve North Sikkim cardamom forest
ValleyPermit required

Nagi Waterfall (Dzongu)

1,000mAltitude
DzonguCity
Oct – MayBest Season
YesPermit Needed
Dzongu · The story

About Nagi Waterfall (Dzongu)

Nagi Waterfall is deep inside the Dzongu Lepcha reserve, accessible only with a local guide through dense cardamom and alder forest. The approach trail takes 1.5–2 hours from the nearest village and passes through some of the most productive large-cardamom growing forest in North Sikkim. The falls drop approximately 40 m into a pool surrounded by mossy boulders and thick riverine vegetation. Virtually no independent tourists reach this waterfall. The permit requirement and the guided-only access keep it within the world of the Lepcha residents who know it as a local landmark.

Why visit

Why go to Nagi Waterfall (Dzongu)

40 m waterfall into a forest pool

The falls drop in a single cascade into a pool surrounded by mossy boulders and old-growth alder. The mist keeps the surrounding vegetation permanently damp and lush.

Cardamom forest approach

The 2-hour approach passes through large-cardamom cultivation under the natural forest canopy. One of the most immersive agricultural landscapes in Sikkim.

High bird diversity in the forest section

The mixed cardamom-alder-broadleaf forest on the approach has excellent bird diversity. Wren-babblers, flycatchers and various thrushes are regularly seen.

—Want to experience Nagi Waterfall (Dzongu)?
Getting there

How to reach Nagi Waterfall (Dzongu) from Dzongu

Only accessible from within the Dzongu reserve via a guided forest trail. Arrange with your homestay the evening before. The guide will know the trail and the best approach time.

When to go

Best time to visit Nagi Waterfall (Dzongu)

October to May. The falls are strongest in the post-monsoon period (October–November) when they are fed by the recent rains. Avoid monsoon (June–September) when the trail is extremely slippery.

Time of dayStart by 8 am. The trail takes 1.5–2 hours and the falls are best in the morning light.

Practical notes

Things we always tell our guests about Nagi Waterfall (Dzongu)

  • A guide is not optional here. The trail is unmarked and the forest is dense.
  • Bring packed food and water; no facilities on the trail.
  • Trekking shoes or at minimum sturdy hiking sandals. The forest floor is often damp.
  • The guide income contributes directly to the Dzongu cooperative. This is community tourism done right.
Frequently asked

Nagi Waterfall (Dzongu) — your questions answered

No. The trail is unmarked and getting lost is a real possibility. Your Dzongu homestay will arrange a guide as a matter of course. The guide fee (approx ₹500/day) also contributes directly to the cooperative.

North Sikkim tour packages — Gurudongmar Lake at 5,430m
PART OF THE NORTH SIKKIM CIRCUIT

See Nagi Waterfall (Dzongu) as part of a North Sikkim package

Nagi Waterfall (Dzongu) sits in the North Sikkim circuit we run. We have 7 ready packages from 2-night to 9-night that include Nagi Waterfall (Dzongu) alongside Gurudongmar, Yumthang Valley and Zero Point. Permits handled in-house by a Sikkim Tourism Department–registered DMC.

See the 7 North Sikkim tour packages
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