Your Guide for Hornbill Festival in Nagaland (2025)

I recently returned from an unforgettable 10-day trip to Nagaland and Assam, and it was nothing short of spectacular. From the moment I arrived, I was immersed in the unique culture and rich traditions of the Naga tribes. The highlight of my trip was undoubtedly the Hornbill Festival, which showcased the region’s vibrant customs, music, and dances.

Seeing people worldwide come together to celebrate this grand event was exhilarating. I also had the chance to witness traditional performances by local and international artists, which brought the entire festival to life.

Another unforgettable experience was the Dzukou Valley Trek, where I was surrounded by the serene beauty of nature, the cool breeze, and the stunning landscapes that made the trek memorable.

The local people were incredibly warm and welcoming, making me feel safe and at home throughout my journey. The hospitality of the Naga tribes, the delicious local food, and the opportunity to learn about their customs and way of life made this trip truly special.

By the end of my time in Nagaland, I had experienced a new culture and connected with people from around the world, making this journey one of the most enriching experiences of my travels.

This article may contain affiliate links, meaning if you decide to purchase via my links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. For complete information, please see our affiliate disclaimer here.

About Hornbill Festival in Nagaland

The Hornbill Festival, held annually from December 1 to 10 in Nagaland, is a major cultural event that celebrates the rich traditions and heritage of the Naga tribes. It occurs at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, 12 kilometres from Kohima, the state capital. The festival’s primary aim is to revive and promote the cultural practices of the various Naga tribes, bringing them together to showcase their unique customs, crafts, and performances.

Named after the Indian Hornbill, the festival reflects the importance of this bird in Naga folklore. During the event, 17 major Naga tribes, including Angami, Ao, Konyak, and Zeliang, come together to display their traditional attire, food, music, dance, and arts. Each tribe has its own morung or community hut, where you can interact with locals, watch performances, and learn about their history and customs.

The Hornbill Festival is also home to the country’s biggest rock festival, hosted in Kohima. The vibrant event includes live performances, showcasing the fusion of traditional and contemporary music, with bands from across India and the world participating.

The festival honours the past and celebrates the present, making it a perfect opportunity to experience Nagaland’s culture in its full glory. With lively crowds, colourful displays, and unforgettable performances, the Hornbill Festival offers an immersive cultural experience, annually drawing local and international visitors to the state.

Tribes of Nagaland

Nagaland, located in northeastern India, is home to 17 major tribes, each with its distinct culture, language, and traditions. The tribes of Nagaland are known for their vibrant customs, festivals, and rich history. Some of the prominent tribes include:

1. Angami: Known for their agricultural practices, the Angami tribe is one of the largest tribes in Nagaland. They are also famous for their hospitality and vibrant festivals.
2. Ao: The Ao tribe is recognized for its elaborate weaving techniques and unique dance forms. It is also known for its history of headhunting, which has been practised in the past.
3. Konyak: The Konyak tribe is perhaps the most famous due to its traditional practice of tattooing and headhunting. It has a strong warrior culture.
4. Sumi: The Sumi tribe is known for its warrior traditions and plays a key role in Nagaland’s cultural and social landscape.
5. Zeliang: The Zeliang tribe is famous for its skilled craftsmanship, especially in weaving and wood carving.
6. Lotha: The Lotha tribe is known for their vibrant festivals, traditional music, and crafts, particularly weaving.
7. Phom, Chakhesang, Rengma, Chang, and others: Each tribe contributes to Nagaland’s cultural diversity through distinct practices, languages, and traditions.

Despite their differences, these tribes come together during festivals like the Hornbill Festival, showcasing their traditions and fostering a sense of unity and shared identity. These tribes largely shape Nagaland’s rich cultural heritage, whose customs and lifestyles continue to thrive.

What to See in the Hornbill Festival?

The Hornbill Festival in Nagaland is a vibrant celebration of the state’s rich culture. It offers you an immersive experience of the traditions, customs, and festivals of the Naga tribes. Held annually at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, the festival is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the diverse cultures of Northeast India.

Morungs

One of the key highlights is the display of the 17 major Naga tribes, each with its own morung or community hut, where they showcase traditional practices. You can observe the tribes’ intricate crafts, watch traditional dances, listen to folk music, and experience their unique customs. The tribes also prepare their native food, allowing them to try dishes like rice beer, dog meat, snails, and King Chilly.

Performances

The festival is a lively hub for cultural performances. Traditional songs and dances are performed in front of the morungs, with colourful attire and dramatic rituals that offer a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Nagaland. The biggest attraction is the rock music festival, which features performances by national and international artists, blending modern music with the local cultural experience.

Learn About History and Culture

You can also engage with the friendly and welcoming local people, offering a unique chance to learn about Nagaland’s history and way of life. The Hornbill Festival celebrates traditions and contemporary culture with lively markets selling handicrafts, making it an unforgettable experience for every traveller.

Try Local Attire

During my visit to the Hornbill Festival, I tried on traditional Naga attire for just Rupees 200. The vibrant and intricately designed outfits, which included handwoven fabrics and colourful accessories, were worn by the locals with pride and elegance.

The attire made me feel connected to the culture, and it was fascinating to see the diversity in the clothing styles of different tribes. The experience allowed me to step into the shoes of the Naga people, even if just for a moment, and truly appreciate their rich traditions and heritage. It was a memorable cultural experience!

Relish Local and Unique Food and Drinks

I tried the local rice beer at the Hornbill Festival, which was a refreshing and authentic experience. It’s a traditional drink widely enjoyed during festivals, and its unique flavour perfectly complements the lively atmosphere.

While I stuck to the rice beer, my friends were more adventurous and sampled a variety of local delicacies. They tried snails, silkworms, and other regional specialties but skipped the dog meat. Watching them explore these new tastes added a fun and cultural dimension to the festival and made for some unforgettable moments together.

Buy Local Products

During my visit to the Hornbill Festival, I had the chance to purchase some beautiful local products that showcased the craftsmanship of the Naga tribes. Each item uniquely represented the region’s rich cultural heritage, from intricately woven shawls and scarves to wooden carvings and handmade jewellery.

The tribal people were eager to share their stories behind the crafts, which made the shopping experience even more meaningful. I picked up a few souvenirs, including traditional tribal jewellery, as keepsakes. Supporting local artisans was rewarding and a great way to take a piece of Nagaland home.

Visit War Memorial Museum

The Hornbill Festival featured a small hall dedicated to commemorating the war heroes, where you can learn about the significant role played by the Nagas during the war. The display offered insights into the history of the battles fought by the Naga people, highlighting their courage and resilience.

Through photographs, artifacts, and detailed accounts, the exhibit shared the stories of the Naga soldiers who contributed to key historical events. It was an impactful and educational part of the festival, offering a deeper understanding of the region’s history and the sacrifices made by the Naga community.

Tips for Visiting the Hornbill Festival

Here are some tips for visiting the Hornbill Festival to make the most of your experience:

1. Buy Tickets in Advance: The entrance ticket costs ?100 per day per person. It’s best to purchase tickets at the entry gate but be prepared to buy one each day you stay, as the ticket is valid only for that specific day.
2. Stay Nearby: Consider staying close to the festival venue, like at Chitsos’s Inn, just 100 meters away from the complex. It saves time and effort in commuting.
3. Plan Your Visit Early: The festival kicks off around 9 AM daily, and it’s best to arrive early to catch all the performances and activities.
4. Wear Comfortable Clothing: Since you’ll be walking and exploring the festival for hours, comfortable footwear and attire are necessary.
5. Try Local Food and Drinks: Don’t miss out on the local specialties, including rice beer, and regional snacks. Be open to trying new dishes and support the local food vendors.
6. Respect Local Customs: The festival is a celebration of Naga culture, so be mindful of traditions and customs. Don’t interrupt cultural performances and be respectful when taking photos.
7. Carry Cash: While there are ATMs, it’s advisable to carry sufficient cash as many vendors may not accept cards.
8. Explore the Morungs: Visit the traditional Morungs, where different tribes display their crafts, music, and cultural practices. It’s a great opportunity to learn and buy authentic handicrafts.

How to Get to Kohima?

By Air

To reach Kohima by air, the nearest airport is Dimapur Airport (DMU), about 75 kilometres from the city.

1. Fly to Dimapur: Start by taking a flight from major cities like Delhi, Kolkata, or Guwahati to Dimapur Airport, which is well-connected to these cities. Airlines like IndiGo and Air India operate regular flights to Dimapur from various locations.
2. From Dimapur to Kohima: Once you arrive in Dimapur, you can hire a shared taxi or private car to go to Kohima. The private car costs Rupees 3000 per car. The drive takes approximately 2 to 3 hours, depending on road conditions.
3. Airport Transfers: Shared taxis are available from Dimapur Airport to Kohima throughout the day, with fares starting from around Rupees 400 per person.

We flew into Guwahati from Bangalore as it was more affordable, and then we took a train from Guwahati to Dimapur.

By Public Transport

To reach Kohima by public transport, you can do these:

1. Train to Dimapur: The nearest railway station to Kohima is in Dimapur, which is well-connected to major cities like Guwahati, Kolkata, and Delhi. You can take a train from your city to Dimapur Railway Station. Trains like the Rajdhani Express, Jana Shatabdi Express, and Northeast Express connect Guwahati and Dimapur. Use IRCTC to book trains.
2. Bus from Dimapur to Kohima: Once you reach Dimapur, you can take a state-run or private bus. The Nagaland State Transport (NST) operates regular buses between Dimapur and Kohima, and the journey takes around 2 to 3 hours. You can catch a bus from the Dimapur bus station, easily accessible from the railway station.
3. Shared Taxis: Alternatively, you can opt for shared taxis from Dimapur to Kohima. Shared taxis are available at the Dimapur taxi stand and generally cost around Rupees 300 to 400 per person. These taxis are a popular and economical way to travel to Kohima.

Where to Stay in Kisama?

Chutso’s Inn

Located just 100 meters from the Hornbill Festival complex, Chutso’s Inn offers affordable accommodation with decent dormitory-style rooms. Beds can be rented for as low as Rupees 2000 per night, making it a comfortable and budget-friendly option.

The only downside is that, since it’s within the festival complex, you’ll need to purchase a ticket daily, which costs Rupees 100 per person. However, the convenience of being so close to the festival makes up for this. The owner, James, is friendly and approachable, making the stay more enjoyable. I highly recommend staying here for its proximity and ease of access to the festival.

Contact Details:

• James Chutso
• +91 80146 76580

Frequently Asked Questions about Hornbill Festival

Q: In which state is the Hornbill Festival celebrated?

The Hornbill Festival, held in Kisama Heritage Village in Nagaland, celebrated its silver jubilee in 2024, attracting a record-breaking number of visitors.

Q: Which bird is called the Hornbill Festival?

The bird commonly associated with the Hornbill Festival is the Great Indian Hornbill, also known as the Great Pied Hornbill. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia. I have seen these birds in Dandeli and Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary (Karnataka).

Q: Is the Hornbill Festival worth visiting?

The Hornbill Festival is absolutely worth visiting. During the festival, each of the 17 Naga tribes showcases its own morung or community hall, beautifully decorated in tribal style. You can experience the tribes’ traditional attire, taste their unique cuisine, and purchase handcrafted items.

Is Hornbill Safe for Solo Female Travellers?

The Hornbill Festival and Nagaland are among the safest places I have travelled to. The people are kind and welcoming, making you feel completely at ease. It’s wonderful to meet so many travellers from across India and worldwide. I had a fantastic time and connected with many people, even though I wasn’t travelling solo on this trip.

Closing Notes

As my time at the Hornbill Festival in Nagaland ended, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for my experiences. The festival was more than just a celebration of culture—it was an opportunity to witness the unity of 17 distinct tribes coming together to showcase their heritage, share their stories, and welcome visitors with open arms.

The warmth and hospitality of the Naga people were evident in every interaction, from the traditional dances performed in front of the beautifully decorated morungs to the delicious local food served at every corner. The vibrant energy, the sound of drums, and the sight of colourful costumes made every moment feel alive.

Beyond the festivities, I had the chance to engage with people from around the world, learning about their journeys and sharing in the spirit of cultural exchange. The Hornbill Festival was a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, with the rock music festival adding a contemporary twist to the celebration.

For anyone looking to experience the true heart of Nagaland, this festival offers a rare and immersive opportunity. Reflecting on my time there, I am filled with a sense of awe and respect for the Naga culture, and I know this experience will stay with me for years to come. The Hornbill Festival is truly a celebration that leaves a lasting impression.

How can you support me?
You know how much I love coffee, so you can buy me a coffee – Buy me Coffee!

If you liked this article and if it was helpful in your planning or travelling, do share, tweet, or pin this post.

Follow me on Instagram | Facebook | YouTube | Twitter | LinkedIn

Hornbill Festival Nagaland – PIN for later reference