Shilloi Lake

Shilloi Lake is the largest natural lake in Nagaland, located near Lutsam village in Phek District close to the India-Myanmar border. Shaped like a human foot, it lies in a valley surrounded by forested hills and paddy fields. Considered sacred by the local community, the lake is known for its pristine waters, tranquil setting and biodiversity. It is a notable natural attraction for sightseeing and nature observation in eastern Nagaland.

Visitors can expect a large foot-shaped natural lake set in a secluded valley surrounded by rolling hills, forests and agricultural fields near Lutsam village. The area offers open views of the water, surrounding ridges and rural landscape. Visitors can walk around the lake periphery, observe birdlife and local vegetation, take photographs and experience a quiet, undeveloped natural environment with basic village infrastructure and no commercial development at the lake itself.

Local folklore associates the lake with a legend of a girl child and the formation of the foot-shaped water body; the lake has traditionally been preserved by the community and remains central to local oral history.

Shilloi Lake is considered sacred by the residents of Lutsam and surrounding villages. Traditional beliefs discourage fishing and disturbance of the lake, and the community regards the lake as protected by a spirit, reflecting its cultural and religious importance.