The Hornbill Festival came to life in 2000 in an effort to preserve and protect the diverse cultures of tribal communities by the Government of Nagaland. The festival intended to serve as a space for inter-tribal interaction as well as an opportunity for travellers to witness the immense cultural diversity of all 17 tribes in one place. The festival is named after the Hornbill bird, which is deeply respected in the state and features prominently in Naga folktales and songs.
In 2003, the Kisama Heritage Village was constructed as the festival venue. The name ‘Kisama’ is a combination of the two names of its surrounding villages who donated their land on which it is situated – Kigwema and Phesama. The Hornbill festival is held during the first 10 days of December, increasingly becoming a popular event to be a part of among domestic and international travellers over the years.
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Hornbill Festival and no doubt, the festive celebrations will be an experience not to miss!
Inner Line Permit: All travellers, whether domestic or international, must obtain an Inner Line Permit to travel to Nagaland. One can apply for the Permit online through the official website or in person.
Festival Passes: The tickets for the festival are available at the Kisama Heritage Village entry gate for INR 40-60 per pass. If you are carrying a camera, there’s a separate fee to use it at the venue (INR 50 approx).
By Air: For travellers flying to Nagaland, Dimapur is the closest airport to Hornbill Festival Venue. Alternatively, you can also fly into Guwahati Airport and make the journey to Nagaland via private taxis or public transport like trains and buses.
By Road: If you wish to combine air and road travel to take in the sights, travellers can fly to Guwahati and make a relaxed train journey to Dimapur (5-6 hours). There are multiple train connections to choose from, one of them being the newly launched, spacious VistaDome train carriages. From Dimapur, it is a 2 to 3 hour road journey to Kohima (68 kms), by shared or private taxis. If you plan to travel only by road, trains are the best choice connecting Guwahati with other parts of the country.
Reaching Kisama Heritage Village: The venue grounds is 12 kms away from Kohima, easily accessible via shared taxis or buses.
Hotels:
Hotels are an ideal choice if you seek comfort and convenience during the festival. Hotels are primarily located in Kohima and are usually the first choice for older travellers who prefer a higher level of comfort and are willing to spend more. Some popular hotel options include:
Local Homestays:
For those who wish to experience the local culture more intimately, local homestays are a great option. They provide a unique opportunity to live with local families and gain deeper insights into their way of life. Make sure you let them know your food preferences ahead on time, especially if you are a vegetarian. Some recommended homestays include:
Hostels:
For budget travellers and younger attendees, hostels offer an affordable and social lodging option. A popular choice in Kohima is:
Camping:
For adventurers who prefer to immerse themselves in nature, camping around Kohima and its surrounding areas provides a unique experience during the Hornbill Festival. While official camping may be limited, several tour operators and local guides offer camping packages tailored for festival attendees, ensuring a safe and memorable outdoor experience.
Visitors to the Hornbill Festival can expect the festival filled with traditional dance, music, and customs. The festival includes various performances, displays of handlooms and handicrafts, food fairs, sports, WWII museum, games and competitions.
As you enter through the gate into Kisama Heritage Village, you are immediately greeted by the vibrant sights and sounds of the festival. The programmes begin at 9.30AM with scheduled breaks for cultural troupes to rest and tourists to explore the venue. The central arena is where the daily cultural shows and performances of the 17 tribes take place across the 10 days. Surrounding the central arena are the different traditional houses resembling the original Naga youth dormitories called morungs for each Naga tribe at the festival. The locals from each tribe are present in these morungs, making Naga food for guests to sample. Each tribe also has their cultural troupe made up of young men and women who represent their culture and enthusiastically show us their way of life through songs, games and dances over the course of ten days.
Let’s talk about all that you can experience in Kisama Heritage Village:
Walking around the venue and visiting the morungs and the locals is a good way to begin. Start early before the performances of the day begin. Each of the 17 tribal communities inhabit specially-made morungs, to depict the traditional youth dormitories of Nagaland. Each morung has been indigenously designed to depict the typical Naga household in the state. As you enter the morung, you will notice the housing arrangements of a Naga household – with the kitchen fire at the centre, meat hung above it. As you visit one morung to the next, you will see what makes every tribe unique through their cultural artefacts on display – food hung to smoke and dry, tools & weapons, clothing & adornments, handicrafts and ritual/sacred objects.
Speaking of rituals, you will also notice the Naga log drums (called Sungkong among Ao Nagas), which is traditionally carved out of a single tree almost 60 metres long and thicker than a person’s height! These log drums helped communicate important messages within villages, especially during warfare and other village emergencies such as fires as well as marking good times and celebrations. The obtaining and making of a morung’s log drum is a sacred community affair. The locals will be more than happy to share their stories on how their log drums were made.
Each tribe performs their traditional dances and songs, offering a glimpse into their cultural heritage. These performances are vibrant, energetic, and colourful, telling stories of their cultural practices and historical events, allowing the audience to learn about the rich traditions and history of the tribes.
In the previous years, Chakhesang Nagas enacted their war dance called Ridu, which historically was performed when a village was about to go to war with another. This performance showcases their martial history and communal solidarity. The tribe also performs the communal process of weaving stinging nettle fibre shawls (thebvo-ra), accompanied by singing, highlighting a skillful tradition that is fast dying out. The dances of the Ao Nagas, such as Yimdongsu Tsungsang, are performed to the beat of the drum and war cries, rather than sung songs, emphasising the raw, primal energy of their cultural expressions. Each performance will enthral you and offer a deeper understanding of the cultural identities, histories and social values that define the Naga tribes.
One of the highlights of the Hornbill Festival is the display of traditional Naga art, handicrafts, sculptures, and paintings. These works showcase the rich cultural heritage and artistic talents of the Naga tribes. You can witness artisans at work, creating intricate designs and vibrant pieces that reflect the traditions and folklore of the region. Don’t miss the opportunity to purchase unique items as souvenirs or gifts, like Naga Shawls, bone and bead jewellery, locally made hunting equipment like knives and so much more.
Different exhibits are put up every year at the Kisama Heritage Village through collaborations and partnerships. In 2023, the 24th Nagaland State Archival Exhibition showcased archival documents and photographs offering a glimpse into Nagaland’s past through private and official collections. The SARAS (Regional Sale of Articles of Rural Artisans Society) Fair, in previous years, has exhibited unique rural community products created by selected SHGs (Self Help Groups) to reach their buyers directly. Art exhibitions showcase creative works of talented Naga artists, where you can buy their artwork directly. The WWII museum
If you want to experience the cosmopolitan side of the state, witness the fashion shows, bodybuilding competitions and Cosplay events, where young local men and women enthusiastically participate. One can also expect an international photo fest to take place with prizes for winners. And if you wish to continue your learning on Naga culture, visit the book stalls during the Hornbill Festival selling interesting books on the different tribes that are rarely found online.
All in all, there will be something on at any given time, so plan ahead and enjoy!
If you are a foodie like us, we very well know that local cuisines are not merely about how it tastes; it is an expression of cultural identity, heritage and their connections to the land. During the scheduled breaks from the daily programmes, the food stalls at the festival as well as the kitchens in every morung will provide ample opportunities to deep-dive into Naga cuisine:
Definitely try:
Smoked Meats: Smoked meats are a staple in every Naga household, hung above the kitchen fire imbuing a distinctive, rich flavour. Popular naga dishes include pork paired with Axone (fermented soybean) that gives a unique, pungent taste, or combined with bamboo shoots for a more earthy flavour. For those who enjoy a spicy kick, meat with Naga chilli (Raja Mircha) is a must-try.
Pickles : The variety of pickles available at the festival is astounding. For meat lovers, pickles from beef, chicken, and pork to fish – each type is pickled in various styles and techniques.
Rice Beer: Always in high demand, rice beer is an integral part of Naga festivities. You can savour the fruity Zutho or Thutse in tall, bamboo glasses at almost every food stall there.
Local Wines: In and around the Heritage Village, you’ll find stalls selling a delightful array of local wines. These include local varieties made from raspberry, kiwi, blackberry and grape among others.
Local fermented juices made of plum, gooseberry, black cherry and peach are also great options for anybody looking to try local non-alcoholic drinks.
Local Produce: The diversity of local fruits and vegetables sold at stalls within the morungs and surrounding the Kisama Heritage Village is a feast for the eyes. Whether you’re sampling fresh produce or buying some to take home, you will understand the region’s agricultural wealth amongst the choices.
Feeling adventurous?
For the brave-hearted, the festival offers unique culinary experiences. Try giant hornets, silkworms, snails with perilla seeds (Akini Chokibo), and grasshoppers.
Note for Vegetarians
Vegetarians, do not fret! There are many stalls present that offer vegetarian options. Options for boiled local leafy greens will be present with every meal along with dal and different varieties of local rice.
At the Hornbill Festival, one can engage in a variety of indigenous games, activities and competitions. These include traditional activities like traditional archery, darts, chilli, pork and pineapple eating contests, catapult target competition, among others. Competitions are divided into local and tourist categories, allowing visitors to join and compete enthusiastically with others keen to experience Naga traditions.
Here are some activities to get your interest piqued:
Naga Wrestling: Naga Wrestling, also known as “Kene,” has been a traditional sport among the Tenyi-mi ethnic group, which consists of the Angami, Chakhesang, and Zeliangrong tribes. This sport is a test of strength, skill, and endurance. Wrestlers compete in a circular arena, aiming to pin their opponents to the ground. The sport is not only a competition but also a celebration of the warrior spirit and camaraderie among the tribes.
Traditional Kart Racing: Traditional Kart Racing is an exhilarating competition where participants race using carts handcrafted from wood or bamboo. These carts, constructed with great skill and ingenuity, reflect the resourcefulness of the Naga people. The race is a thrilling event, filled with excitement and high energy, as tribes compete against each other, showcasing their craftsmanship and competitive spirit.
Bamboo Stilt Walking: Participants walk on tall bamboo stilts, testing their balance and coordination. This game is both a display of agility and a reflection of traditional modes of transportation in the hilly terrains of Nagaland.
Fire Making Competition: In this traditional game, participants race to create fire using only natural materials like wood and bamboo. This competition not only highlights the survival skills of the Naga people but also their deep connection to nature.
Traditional Archery: Archery has historically been a crucial skill for survival and defence for the Naga tribes; a skill deeply rooted in their hunting practices and warrior traditions.
Naga Chilli Eating Contest: Not for the faint hearted or the soft stomached! Test your limits with some of the hottest peppers in the world, boasting a Scoville heat unit that can induce sweat and tears in the bravest contenders.
Pork Eating Contest: Join in this hearty competition where participants race to consume the most pork in a set time. Pork is a huge staple in Naga cuisine, and this contest shows the communal and celebratory aspects of food consumption.
Angami Stone Pulling Ceremony – The Angami Stone Pulling Ceremony takes place in Viswema village and is a cultural ritual of the Angami Naga tribe, symbolising unity and communal strength. During this ceremony, the community gathers to collectively pull a massive monolith stone using vine ropes to commemorate a big occasion. As largely oral societies, Naga tribes have historically erected stones as markers of their identities and past. As such, stone pulling is not only a grand affair but a cause of majestic celebrations with traditional attires, celebratory chants and the entire community participates, concluding with a grand feast.
WWII Peace Rally: The Peace Rally commemorates the historic Battle of Kohima during WWII. This rally features an impressive display of vintage motor cars from Dimapur and Kohima, celebrating the region’s history and honouring the memory of those who fought in the battle. Each year, the Peace Rally grows in scale and grandeur, and this year promises to be the largest yet. Participants and spectators alike can look forward to an expanded lineup of classic vehicles, making it a must-see event.
Hornbill Night Carnival in Kohima town – The Kohima Night Bazaar transforms into a Carnival during the ten days of the festival, with people from all generations participating in high festive spirits. Who wouldn’t be, when surrounded by good music and good food?
Hornbill International Music Festival : After the day is over, the Hornbill Festival holds a music concert with local Naga bands and international artists performing for you to enjoy. Here are some artists that have rocked the stage in the previous years. We will update this section with the event calendar of artists’ performances for 2024 , once it is released.
The Hornbill Festival Closing Ceremony is a grand finale event featuring cultural performances, singing and dancing, making it a memorable experience for all attendees.
The Hornbill Festival came about to create a space where all tribes could come together to celebrate their unique traditions together and for travellers to interact with them. However, amidst the vibrant festivities and cultural exchange, it is essential to remain mindful of our behaviour. Responsible enjoyment ensures that we respect the customs and environment, fostering a positive and sustainable experience for both locals and visitors.
Before attending the Hornbill festival, take time to research the traditions, history, and significance of the various cultural practices of the Naga tribes. This will help you understand and appreciate the cultural nuances even more. To help you out, here are some open access articles to get you started:
The Official Hornbill Festival Website for updates
Cultural Connect – 2023 Hornbill Festival
There are great documentaries like “Shot Awake” – The Making of Changlangshu’s New Logdrum that provide visual narratives to cultural practices of the Nagas in real life. Visit the Kohima State Museum that holds artefacts and historical records of each tribe’s rich history. Also, talking with your local guides and other experts can provide you with first hand knowledge and personal stories you will not find in any history book.
Interact with locals in a respectful manner, showing appreciation for their culture without being intrusive or dismissive. While the young men and women are fluent in English and Hindi, the elderly folk often are comfortable speaking in their own dialects, so learning a few local phrases will help you connect better.
Purchase handicrafts, textiles, and other goods directly from local artisans to support the community economically. By purchasing intricately crafted handicrafts, vibrant textiles, and unique local goods, you not only take home a piece of Naga culture but also help sustain artisanal traditions that are fast disappearing. Your support ensures that these artisans can continue their craftsmanship, promoting Naga artistry for future generations to appreciate.
Dispose of waste properly, avoid single-use plastics, and respect natural surroundings.
Understand the difference between appreciating and appropriating cultural elements. Cultural appropriation can inadvertently occur when one engages with cultural practices, symbols, or attire without understanding their deeper meanings or historical contexts. Take the time to research and learn about the cultural practices and symbols you will encounter at the Hornbill Festival. Share your knowledge and experience responsibly with others.
For influencers, bloggers and avid photo enthusiasts, practise responsible photography and videography. Seek permission before taking or posting photos of people, even though photography is widely permitted within the Kisama Heritage Village. We have encountered situations where individuals have pressured locals to perform dances or activities for the cameras. Cultural interactions should be approached with respect and sensitivity. Forcing locals to perform dances, songs, or other cultural expressions for the camera reduces rich traditions to mere spectacles and this kind of behaviour perpetuates harmful stereotypes. Respect the privacy of locals, and provide context to your images and videos to avoid misrepresenting their culture.
With all said, be ready to spend the days eating, singing, dancing and merrymaking! The Hornbill Festival is a sensory experience – the yodels and battle cries fill the air, the smell of freshly smoked meat calls you to find its source, the rich colours and textures adorned by the locals surrounding you – you will immediately feel a connection to a community celebrating its cultural heritage with fierce pride and warm hospitality.
We will update this section as more official updates are posted. Until then, check our ongoing small group tour dates for the 2024 Hornbill Festival here
