Nagaland Hornbill Festival Tour – 5 Days
The Nagaland Hornbill Festival Tour is an immersive journey into the vibrant heart of Northeast India, celebrating the rich heritage, culture, and tribal traditions of the Naga people. Held annually in the first week of December at the scenic Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima, this festival is fondly known as the “Festival of Festivals.” Over the years, it has become one of India’s most iconic cultural events, drawing visitors from across the globe to witness a grand spectacle of music, dance, food, crafts, and unity among Nagaland’s 16 major tribes.
This 5-day tour not only brings you close to the mesmerizing festivities of the Hornbill Festival but also takes you through picturesque landscapes, mist-covered hills, and the charming towns of Kohima and Khonoma — known for their history, eco-tourism, and community spirit. Whether you are a culture enthusiast, photographer, or nature lover, the Nagaland Hornbill Festival Tour offers an experience that will stay etched in your heart forever.
Overview of Nagaland and the Hornbill Festival
Nagaland, located in India’s northeastern region, is a land of rolling green hills, dense forests, and a tapestry of tribal cultures. Each of its tribes — including Angami, Ao, Sumi, Lotha, and Konyak — has its distinct language, traditions, and artistic expressions. The Hornbill Festival was initiated by the Government of Nagaland in 2000 to promote inter-tribal harmony and showcase the cultural heritage of the state. It is named after the majestic Hornbill bird, revered in Naga folklore for its beauty and significance.
The festival is held at the Kisama Heritage Village (about 12 km from Kohima) and features traditional dances, indigenous games, folk music, crafts, fashion shows, and food festivals. The highlight of the event is the coming together of all Naga tribes in a magnificent cultural celebration that bridges tradition and modernity.
Day-wise Itinerary – Nagaland Hornbill Festival Tour (5 Days / 4 Nights)
Day 1: Arrival at Dimapur – Drive to Kohima (75 km / 3 hours)
Arrive at Dimapur Airport, the gateway to Nagaland, where you’ll be welcomed by misty hills and warm local smiles. After meeting your tour guide, drive towards Kohima, the capital of Nagaland. The route winds through scenic valleys, terraced fields, and charming Naga villages.
- Check-in: Upon arrival in Kohima, check into your hotel, guesthouse, or homestay.
- Evening Stroll: Explore Kohima’s local market — full of bamboo crafts, handwoven shawls, and tribal jewelry.
- Dinner: Savor traditional Naga cuisine, including dishes made with smoked pork, bamboo shoots, and local herbs.
Overnight stay in Kohima.
Day 2: Experience the Hornbill Festival at Kisama Heritage Village
After breakfast, head to Kisama Heritage Village — the main venue of the Hornbill Festival, located 12 km from Kohima. The entire village transforms into a vibrant celebration ground with traditional huts, tribal decorations, and festive music echoing through the hills.
- Inaugural Ceremony: Witness the opening ceremony, featuring colorful processions and performances from all Naga tribes dressed in their traditional attire.
- Tribal Dances and Music: Each tribe performs folk dances, warrior songs, and drum beats that narrate stories of valor and unity.
- Handicraft Stalls: Visit artisan stalls displaying exquisite bamboo crafts, wood carvings, jewelry, and textiles. You can also interact with the craftsmen to learn about their techniques.
- Food Pavilion: Taste authentic Naga dishes — from smoked meats and sticky rice to chutneys made with king chili (the world’s hottest pepper). Vegetarian options like boiled vegetables and fermented bamboo shoots are also available.
- Adventure & Games: Watch indigenous games such as Naga wrestling (Kene), archery contests, and log drum competitions.
As the sun sets, the festival ground lights up with live rock bands, cultural fusion music, and a spectacular fireworks display. The evenings at Kisama are electric with energy, music, and camaraderie among locals and travelers alike.
Return to your hotel for overnight stay.
Day 3: Khonoma Village – Asia’s First Green Village
After breakfast, take a short drive (20 km) from Kohima to visit Khonoma Village, known as the first eco-friendly village in Asia. This Angami tribal settlement is famous for its efforts in forest conservation and sustainable living.
- Khonoma Gate: Start your visit at the historical gate that once stood as a defense point during British invasions in the 19th century.
- Terraced Fields: Marvel at the lush paddy terraces spread across the hills — an outstanding example of traditional organic farming.
- Khonoma Nature Conservation & Tragopan Sanctuary: A community-managed sanctuary home to the rare Blyth’s Tragopan bird and several endemic species.
- Local Interactions: Meet village elders and artisans to understand the Angami way of life, traditional governance, and craftsmanship.
- Lunch: Enjoy a local meal prepared using organic ingredients — a perfect way to savor Khonoma’s sustainable ethos.
Return to Kohima by evening. You can visit the Kohima Cathedral Church — one of the largest churches in Northeast India, offering panoramic views of the city.
Overnight stay in Kohima.
Day 4: Kohima Sightseeing – War Memorials and Cultural Museums
Spend the day exploring Kohima’s historical and cultural landmarks that narrate stories of courage and resilience.
- Kohima War Cemetery: Visit this beautifully maintained memorial built in honor of the soldiers who fought during World War II. The epitaph “When you go home, tell them of us and say, for your tomorrow, we gave our today” leaves every visitor deeply moved.
- State Museum: Explore the Nagaland State Museum, which showcases tribal artifacts, traditional costumes, weapons, and musical instruments. It offers a comprehensive insight into the Naga way of life.
- Local Market: Spend time at the Kohima Night Bazaar — a lively street market held during the Hornbill Festival, featuring food stalls, crafts, and live performances.
- Jotsoma Viewpoint: For panoramic views of the valley, drive to Jotsoma Hill, a short distance from Kohima. It’s a favorite spot for photographers.
Evening free for leisure or cultural interaction at your hotel. You can also attend the Hornbill Night Carnival, featuring traditional music, street food, and art performances.
Overnight stay in Kohima.
Day 5: Kohima to Dimapur – Departure (75 km / 3 hours)
After breakfast, drive back to Dimapur for your departure. En route, stop by local villages and markets for last-minute souvenir shopping — bamboo baskets, Naga shawls, and handmade jewelry make for great mementos.
Transfer to Dimapur Airport for your onward journey with unforgettable memories of Nagaland’s hills, traditions, and the grand Hornbill Festival.
Major Attractions of the Hornbill Festival
- Tribal Cultural Performances: Each tribe showcases its traditional dances, songs, and folk dramas, making it a visual and cultural delight.
- Indigenous Sports: Events like Naga wrestling, archery, and bamboo pole climbing add thrill to the festival.
- Morung Huts: Each tribe sets up its morung (traditional dormitory hut) decorated with symbols, handicrafts, and food specialties.
- Food and Handicraft Stalls: Taste local delicacies and shop for handmade items crafted by skilled tribal artisans.
- Music and Fashion Shows: Contemporary rock bands and traditional fashion displays highlight the fusion of tradition and modernity.
- Night Carnival: The streets of Kohima come alive with lights, laughter, and performances, making it a perfect way to conclude the festival evenings.
Major Distances
- Dimapur to Kohima: 75 km (Approx. 3 hours drive)
- Kohima to Kisama Heritage Village: 12 km (Approx. 30 minutes drive)
- Kohima to Khonoma Village: 20 km (Approx. 1 hour drive)
- Kohima to Dimapur Airport: 75 km (Approx. 3 hours drive)
How to Reach Nagaland (Kohima / Kisama)
By Air: The nearest airport is Dimapur Airport (75 km from Kohima), connected to Guwahati and Kolkata by regular flights. Taxis and private cabs are available from the airport to Kohima.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Dimapur Railway Station, well-connected to Guwahati, Delhi, and other major cities in India.
By Road: Kohima is connected by National Highway 29. Buses and shared taxis operate regularly from Dimapur, Guwahati (350 km), and Imphal (145 km). The journey through the lush Naga hills is a scenic experience.
Accommodation Options – Where to Stay
Nagaland offers a range of accommodations during the Hornbill Festival — from luxury hotels in Kohima to rustic homestays near Kisama Village that allow travelers to experience authentic Naga hospitality.
- Hotel Japfü, Kohima: A comfortable property with modern amenities, offering great city views.
- De Oriental Grand: A premium hotel with well-appointed rooms and traditional decor.
- Camp Kisama: Tent accommodations set up near the festival venue, perfect for those seeking proximity and adventure.
- Niraamaya Retreats Aradura, Kohima: A boutique stay surrounded by hills and tranquility.
- Khonoma Homestays: Experience Naga hospitality in eco-friendly homes offering cultural interaction and local meals.
Best Time to Visit Nagaland
- December (Hornbill Festival Season): The best time to visit Nagaland to experience the Hornbill Festival and pleasant winter weather (15–20°C).
- October to May: Ideal for sightseeing, trekking, and cultural exploration with clear skies and moderate temperatures.
- Monsoon (June–September): Not recommended due to heavy rainfall and slippery mountain roads.
Travel Tips
- Carry a valid Inner Line Permit (ILP) to enter Nagaland. It can be obtained online or from Guwahati and Dimapur offices.
- Wear warm clothing as temperatures drop in the evenings during winter.
- Respect local customs and ask for permission before photographing people or sacred spaces.
- Cash is essential — ATMs are limited in Kohima and nearby villages.
- Book accommodations well in advance, as hotels fill up quickly during the Hornbill Festival.
- Try local delicacies like Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoot, Axone (fermented soybean), and Galho (a Naga rice porridge).
- Carry sturdy shoes for walking through festival grounds and village paths.
Nearby Attractions for Extended Tours
- Dzukou Valley (25 km from Kohima): Known as the “Valley of Flowers of the Northeast,” this surreal landscape of rolling meadows and seasonal blooms is perfect for trekking enthusiasts.
- Touphema Village (41 km from Kohima): A community-run tourist village where travelers can stay in traditional huts and experience local cuisine and dances.
- Mokokchung (150 km): The cultural center of the Ao tribe, famous for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant traditions.
- Dimapur: Visit the ancient Kachari Ruins and Diphupar villages to explore Nagaland’s early history.
Conclusion
The Nagaland Hornbill Festival Tour is more than just a festival visit — it is a deep dive into the cultural soul of one of India’s most colorful and hospitable states. The rhythmic drumbeats, warrior dances, laughter of locals, and the aroma of smoked delicacies create an unforgettable atmosphere that embodies the unity and pride of the Naga people.
Beyond the festival, Nagaland’s mist-covered hills, eco-friendly villages, and warm-hearted people make it a destination that transcends time and geography. Whether you are exploring the heritage of Kohima, trekking through the green pastures of Dzukou Valley, or savoring tribal cuisines at Kisama, each moment of this tour connects you to a way of life that’s pure, vibrant, and timeless.
Experience the magic of Nagaland with Nature Craft Tours — where culture, nature, and celebration come together to create memories that last a lifetime.