Hornbill Festival 2024: Dates, Venue, Places to visit, and Things to do

5 minutes read

Nagaland, the picturesque land of the Northeast, comes alive every December with the grand celebration of the Hornbill Festival, often dubbed the “Festival of Festivals.” A 10-day rollercoaster ride through Nagaland’s rich culture, packed with music, dance, traditional games, and enough spicy food to make your taste buds dance! With 2024 marking the 25th edition, Explurger being the official social media partner for Hornbill festival in 2024 is here to make sure you don’t miss a single beat. Get ready for an adventure you’ll be talking about for years to come!

Hornbill Festival Key Details

Dates: December 1 – December 10, 2024.
Hornbill Festival location: Kisama Heritage Village, located 12 km from Kohima, Nagaland’s capital city is the Hornbill Festival venue.
How to reach: Nearest airport and train station to Kohima is Dimapur. You can use public buses or private taxis to reach Kohima which is located about 74 kms from Dimapur.
Country Partner: Japan
Social Media Partner: Explurger

History of Hornbill Festival

Named after the iconic hornbill bird, revered in Naga folklore, the Hornbill Festival is a grand showcase of the traditions, art, and culture of Nagaland. The event, organized by the Government of Nagaland, takes place every year from December 1 to 10 at the Kisama Heritage Village, located about 12 kilometers from the state capital, Kohima.

What began in 2000 as a modest three-day event has evolved into a global phenomenon. Today, the Hornbill Festival draws visitors from around the world, making Nagaland a hotspot for cultural tourism. With the spotlight on Nagaland’s rich tribal heritage, this festival truly embodies the spirit of unity and diversity.

The Hornbill Festival Itinerary

Pro Tip: Get yourself a local friend through Explurger’s Explore Your City feature!

Enjoy Cultural Performances

Every day at the festival, various Naga tribes take the stage to perform their traditional dances, folk songs, and reenactments of war techniques. These performances are not just visually stunning but also give you a glimpse of tribal life.

Explore Naga Morungs

Walk through replicas of traditional Naga morungs and learn how these dormitories played a significant role in imparting knowledge about customs, traditions, and warfare to young men.

Enjoy the Indigenous Games

Watch or even participate in activities like Naga wrestling, bamboo stilt races, and archery. These traditional sports highlight the athletic skills of the tribes while offering a fun break from the usual tourist activities.

Shop at the Handicrafts and Handlooms Fair

The marketplace is a paradise for shopaholics! From intricate tribal jewelry to bamboo crafts and colorful textiles, take home a piece of Nagaland’s artisanal heritage.

Groove at the Hornbill Music Festival

One of the most awaited events, the Hornbill International Rock Contest, features bands from across India and abroad competing for glory. The electrifying performances make it a major crowd-puller every year.

Savor Traditional Naga Cuisine

Indulge in a culinary adventure with dishes like smoked meats, bamboo shoot curries, and fiery Naga chili sauces. Don’t miss out on Zutho, a local rice beer that perfectly complements the flavors of the region.

Take Heritage Walks and Village Tours

Guided tours to nearby villages offer a deeper understanding of Naga history, traditional livelihoods, and biodiversity. These excursions are perfect for anyone looking to explore Nagaland beyond the festival.

The Hornbill festival timings will typically be morning to evening, with each event having its own slot.

Places to Visit Around Kisama and Kohima you need to add to you Explurger Bucket List (all are near the Hornbill Festival location, Koisama)

Dzukou Valley

Known as the “Valley of Flowers of the Northeast,” this breathtaking destination is perfect for trekking and camping. Its emerald-green meadows and vibrant blooms make it a must-visit.

Kohima War Cemetery

Pay your respects at this serene spot dedicated to 2nd British Division of the Allied Forces soldiers who lost their lives during World War II. The inscriptions on the graves are a poignant reminder of history.

Khonoma Village

Khonoma, renowned as the “warrior village,” is a historic site of anti-colonial resistance and a trailblazer in wildlife conservation through initiatives like the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary.

Japfü Peak

For adventure seekers, a trek to Japfü Peak rewards you with panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. It’s also the site of the tallest rhododendron tree in the world (3048 meters).

Shilloi Lake

Shilloi Lake, the largest natural lake in Nagaland, is shaped like a human foot and is steeped in legends, including one about a baby mysteriously found floating in its waters, adding to its cultural and mystical allure.

Final Thoughts about Hornbill Festival

The Hornbill Festival is not just an event—it’s an experience that stays with you long after the festivities are over. From its vibrant cultural displays to its adventurous offerings, there’s a reason it’s celebrated as the “Festival of Festivals.” And with 2024 marking its 25th anniversary, there’s no better time to pack your bags and head to Nagaland.

So, what are you waiting for? Let the Hornbill Festival in 2024 be your grand finale to the year—a celebration of culture, adventure, and unforgettable memories.

Remember to mark your calendar for Hornbill festival dates, i.e., December 1–10 and make your way to Kisama Heritage Village to witness the magic of the Hornbill Festival 2024! Explurger, your fav travel social app will be waiting for you there! #GETOUTGETSOCIAL