Experience Hornbill Festival

The Hornbill Festival is a cultural festival celebrated in Nagaland, a state in the northeastern region of India. The festival is named after the Indian hornbill, which is a large and colorful bird found in the region. The festival is a celebration of the diverse Naga culture and heritage, and features traditional dances, music, food, and sports. It is held annually from December 1 to 10 in the town of Kohima, and attracts tourists from all over the world.

The journey begins with arriving at the Dimapur airport via flight. Upon arrival, you will be greeted and welcomed by a representative and directly drive to Kohima. Kohima, the capital of Nagaland, is located at an altitude of 1444 meters above sea level. The name Kohima is derived from the word "Kew Hi Ma," which means "the men of the land where the flower Kew Hi grows."
As you arrive in Kohima, you will check-in at the hotel where you will be staying. Kohima is situated on top of the surrounding mountains and shares the same features as other Naga settlements. The city is a beautiful blend of different cultures with a touch of modernism. It is a fast-growing city that offers a glimpse into the unique Naga way of life.
You can explore the city and its surroundings, visit the local markets, try the local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and traditions of the Naga people. You will spend the night at the hotel, enjoying the comforts of your accommodation before continuing on with your journey.

After an early breakfast, you will depart for Kisama, the permanent venue for the Hornbill Festival which is located 14 km from Kohima. The Hornbill Festival is a celebration of the diverse tribal culture of Nagaland, with each tribe having its own unique festival throughout the year. The festival is organized by the State Directorate of Tourism, Nagaland, and is named after the hornbill bird, which holds great significance in the folklore, dances, and songs of most of the state's tribes.
The main goal of the festival is to promote cultural heritage and encourage inter-tribal interaction. It takes place between December 1st and 5th at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama. The festival features a wide range of cultural displays, including traditional Naga morungs, exhibitions and sales of arts and crafts, food stalls, herbal medicine stalls, and flower shows.
Cultural medleys, such as songs and dances, fashion shows, traditional archery, Naga wrestling, indigenous games, and music concerts are among the other main attractions. The Hornbill Festival has already attracted national and international tourists and has been successful in projecting Nagaland as a unique tourist destination, while also celebrating the richness of the Naga cultural heritage.
You will have the opportunity to explore the streets of Kohima during the Hornbill evening, followed by an overnight stay at your hotel or guest house.

After breakfast, depart for Kisama to witness the Hornbill Festival. In the afternoon, visit the Kohima War Cemetery, which was constructed in memory of the officers and soldiers who made supreme sacrifices during World War II. The cemetery witnesses more than 2000 graves, and each grave has beautiful epitaphs carved in bronze. Then, visit the Khonoma Green Village, which is the first "green village" of Nagaland, located 21 km away from Kohima town. The village is well known for the legendary leader Angami Zapu Phizo, who was the founder of the Naga movement. In the evening, visit Kisama again to witness the cultural show. Overnight stay at hotel/guest house.

In the morning after breakfast, visit the Kohima Village, also known as Bara Basti, which is one of the largest villages in Asia. This village is mainly inhabited by the Angami tribe and is divided into "Khels" or localities. The village has a large traditional wooden gate that is elaborately carved with warriors and weapons, and the skull of the Mithun, which is a symbol of prosperity.
Later, transfer to Dimapur or Jorhat Airport for your onward destination.

Safe travels!

Experience Hornbill Festival