Hornbill Festival 2024: Nagaland stands at the center of tribal culture and traditions; Here, the “Festival of Festivals” i.e. the Hornbill Festival is about to happen once again. To showcase the cultural heritage of the land, this extraordinary event is set to reverberate with cultural exhibitions, music and much more from December 1 to 10 at the Naga Heritage Village of Kisama, located about 12 km from the capital Kohima.

First held in 2000 and set to host its 25th edition, the Hornbill Festival takes its name from the Indian Hornbill, a bird that nests in the forests of Nagaland and has had a place in the folklore of the state for centuries. Nagaland Tourism Commissioner and Secretary Dr. G. “It is going to be a grand festival this year,” Hukugha Sema told ANI after concluding a coordination meeting held with tribal Hoho and organizations at the department’s directorate office. The official noted that the tribal bodies believe that proper cooperation, coordination and maintenance would be necessary if the tourism department extends the festival year-round from 2025. “Due to the elections and prolonged monsoon rains, there is a slight delay in the preparations, but we are confident that the work will be completed by November 15 or maximum by November 20,” Sema said.

Hornbill Festival

Apart from showcasing the diverse tribal culture of Nagaland, the festival also aims to promote inter-tribal cooperation, promote state tourism and provide a platform to entrepreneurs and artists to present their products and skills. For travellers, this program is an ideal gateway to understand and explore this eastern state.

what to expect

With the participation of all the tribes of Nagaland, the Hornbill festival is an amalgam of colorful festivities that include crafts, games, food, music, games and ceremonies. From fashion presentations and beauty pageants to displays of traditional skills like archery, wrestling and other indigenous activities, there is something for everyone. Additionally, traditional artworks such as paintings, wood carvings and sculptures are also part of the show.

For the 25th Hornbill Festival, the Government of Wales will be a key cultural partner, highlighting the commitment to cultural diplomacy between India and the UK. Welsh artists and cultural ambassadors will join the festival, blending European and Naga traditions through art, music and dance.

what to keep in mind

Domestic tourists must have Inner Line Permit (ILP) to reach Nagaland. You can get ILP by logging into the official website of Nagaland Government.

how to reach nagaland

By Air: Nagaland has an airport at Dimapur, which is regularly served by major airlines. After this tourists will have to go to Kohima by road.

By Road: The state has a good road network. First proceed towards Dimapur and then Kohima.

By Rail: The central railway station of the state is at Dimapur. From there you can reach Kohima via public transport or private cars.

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