Lake · Nagaland
Lake Shilloi
Nagaland's largest natural lake, a foot-shaped lake hidden in the Patkai hills near Myanmar.
Quick facts
- Best season
- October – April
- Duration
- Half day (2-day trip from Kohima)
- Altitude
- ≈980 m
- Nearest town
- Latsam / Meluri (Meluri (formerly Phek))
- Permit
- Nagaland Inner Line Permit (ILP) required for all non-indigenous visitors; foreign nationals also need a Protected Area Permit (PAP). Verify before travel.
About Lake Shilloi
Lake Shilloi is the largest natural lake in Nagaland, set at about 980 m in the Patkai hills in Meluri district (formerly part of Phek), close to the Myanmar border. Surrounded by pine-covered hills, the lake is roughly shaped like a human footprint, and its calm waters perfectly mirror the forest on still mornings.
Local Pochury Naga communities regard the lake with reverence, and there are legends of a spirit child said to dwell in it. This has helped protect its waters and surroundings. Visitors come for the peace, the reflections and the birdlife; there are a few simple facilities nearby, including a tourist lodge.
Shilloi is remote — reached via Pfutsero and Phek or through Meluri — and roads can be rough, so it suits travellers looking for an offbeat Nagaland experience. Combine it with Pfutsero's Glory Peak and the Chakhesang villages along the way.
How to reach Lake Shilloi
About 190 km from Kohima via Pfutsero and Phek (7–8 hours); roads beyond Phek are rough.
Things to do
Places near Lake Shilloi
Lake Shilloi FAQs
Is Lake Shilloi the largest lake in Nagaland?
Yes, it is the largest natural lake in the state.
How remote is Lake Shilloi?
Quite remote: plan a two-day trip from Kohima via Pfutsero and Phek.
Can I swim in the lake?
The lake is considered sacred by local communities; swimming is not encouraged. Ask locally.
Facts checked against: en.wikipedia.org · tourism.nagaland.gov.in. Conditions change — verify timings and permits before travel.