Picture this: a spectacular extravaganza known as the Hornbill Festival, often dubbed the 'Festival of Festivals.' It's like the cultural party of the year, and it's all thanks to the Government of Nagaland.
Now, mark your calendars because this epic celebration unfolds from December 1st to December 10th, without fail.
Where does all this magic happen, you ask? Well, it's set in the enchanting Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, a mere 12 kilometers from the bustling town of Kohima.
What makes the Hornbill Festival so important?
Well, it's not just any festival; it's a vibrant celebration of Nagaland's indigenous warrior tribes, and it's a big deal. The Naga people have a deep-rooted tradition of preserving their rich heritage and customs, and that's what makes this festival shine.
Each tribe and sub-tribe in the state has its own captivating way of showcasing their culture. Think traditional ceremonial attire, and it's a different story for each tribe. But that's not all; there are multi-colored spears, Dao’s adorned with dyed goat's hair, exotic headgear that steals the spotlight, and ivory armlets that scream tradition. Back in the day, these were badges of bravery, earned through valor.
Here's what you can't miss at the Hornbill Festival:
Looking to make the most of your time at the Hornbill Festival? Here's your checklist for the top things to do:
Immerse in Tradition: Dive into the vibrant world of traditional arts, folk songs, and games. Learn about the rich cultural tapestry of the Nagaland tribes.
Tribal Life Exploration: Explore replicas of tribal huts, marvel at intricate wooden carvings, and let the rhythmic beats of tribal drum instruments transport you to another world as the day winds down.
Culinary Delights: Indulge your taste buds at the numerous food stalls. Don't forget to pair your meal with some local rice beer, a festival favorite.
Spice Up Your Life: Test your taste buds in the Naga Chili eating competition, an event renowned for its fiery intensity. Only the bravest dare to participate!
Morungs: The heart of the festival lies in the Morungs, traditional tribal dormitories. Visit them in the morning to witness performers getting dressed. Remember to seek permission before capturing those up-close shots.
Connect with Tribes: Engage in conversations with the diverse 16 tribes that come together for this extravagant affair. It's an experience you'll cherish for a lifetime.
Cultural Extravaganza: Throughout the day, enjoy a rich tapestry of cultural performances. Become part of the event as you witness the tribes' vibrant traditions come to life.
Drink Local Rice Beer: And of course, don't miss out on savoring the local rice beer, a true taste of Nagaland's culture and hospitality.
Tripoto Travel Tips:
If you're planning to experience the Hornbill Festival, these travel tips are your handy companions:
Early Reservations: The festival kicks off on December 1st, coinciding with Nagaland Formation Day, making it a prime tourist attraction. To avoid any last-minute headaches, secure your accommodations and travel plans well in advance. You'll need an Inner Line Permit (ILP) to visit Nagaland*, and attend the festival.
Bargain Smart: At the festival, you'll find a plethora of stalls and souvenir shops. Bargaining is often an option, so don't hesitate to negotiate for the best deals and keepsakes.
Foreign Travelers: Good news for foreign travelers – you no longer need an Entry Permit to visit Nagaland. However, it's essential to register with the Foreigner’s Registration Office (District Superintendent of Police) within 24 hours of entering the state.
Information Hub: There's a conveniently located Information Center near the festival grounds. Swing by and grab a brochure detailing festival events and other attractions in Nagaland. It's your guide to making the most of your visit.
*How to get the Inner Line Permit for Nagaland?
It is mandatory for travelers to get the Inner Line Permit to visit Nagaland. Visitors can get this permit from the Office of Deputy Resident Commissioner in Guwahati, Shillong, Delhi, and Kolkata.
Or else you can also get an “on-arrival” ILP from the DC office of Dimapur. It is better to apply for this permit early in the morning so that it gets done by noon.
How to reach Kohima, Nagaland?
Nagaland neither has an airport nor a railway station. This is how you can reach Kohima if you are planning your trip.
By Road: Kohima is connected by NH39 to Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Tripura, Mizoram, and Manipur. State highways link Guwahati to Shillong, providing access to other states. You can reach Kohima by personal cab or bus.
By Train: Kohima lacks a railway station due to its hilly terrain. The nearest rail link is in Dimapur, connected to Guwahati and Kolkata. Train travel offers scenic views but can be slower. It's the most economical option.
By Flight: Kohima has no airport; the nearest is in Dimapur, 74 km away, with domestic flights to Kolkata and Guwahati. International travelers arrive at Kolkata or Delhi airports and then catch connecting flights to Dimapur. A two-hour cab ride from Dimapur to Kohima is available, or opt for a 30-minute helicopter ride for a quicker option.
Back in 2019, I had a chance to witness this beautiful festival and you can read more about my experiences, here.
If you’ve also attended the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, let us know about your experiences in the comments below! We’d love to hear back from you. And in case you haven’t, you must add it to your travel bucket list – ‘coz it’s something that you should experience at least once in a lifetime.