Hornbill Festival, Nagaland 2025
The Grand Celebration of Nagaland’s Heritage
1 Dec 2025 – 10 Dec 2025
The Hornbill Festival is one of the most vibrant cultural festivals of India, celebrated annually in Nagaland, a picturesque state in the northeast. Known as the “Festival of Festivals”, it brings together all 17 major Naga tribes along with several sub-tribes to showcase their rich traditions, folklore, and way of life.
This 10-day extravaganza highlights the best of Nagaland through traditional dances, folk songs, indigenous games, craft exhibitions, and the famous Hornbill Music Festival. Visitors also get a taste of authentic Naga cuisine, handwoven textiles, and local handicrafts.
Named after the revered hornbill bird, which features prominently in Naga folklore and rituals, the festival is a symbol of unity and cultural pride. Held at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, near Kohima, the Hornbill Festival has grown into an international event, drawing travelers, photographers, and culture enthusiasts from across the globe
The Grand Celebration of Nagaland’s Heritage
Hornbill Festival Details
Where?
Kisama Heritage Village, Nagaland , approximately 12 km from Kohima, Nagaland.
When?
1 Dec 2025 – 10 Dec 2025
Approximately ₹50–₹100 per person per day.
Want the full festival experience?
Book your camping stay
& additional fun activities!
Story Of Hornbill Festival
The Hornbill Festival was first organised by the Government of Nagaland in the year 2000 with the aim of preserving and promoting the unique cultural heritage of the state. Nagaland is home to diverse tribes, each with its own language, customs, and traditions. While these cultures were vibrant within their communities, they often remained unseen by the outside world. The festival was introduced as a platform to bring all tribes together in one place, not only to celebrate their identity but also to showcase it to visitors.
The festival is named after the Indian hornbill, a bird deeply respected in Naga folklore and often featured in tribal rituals, dances, and wood carvings. Symbolising courage, fertility, and valour, the hornbill reflects the values and way of life of the Naga people.
Over the years, the Hornbill Festival has grown from a state-level event into an internationally recognised celebration. It has become a bridge between tradition and modernity, where age-old practices such as log-drum beating, warrior dances, and folk tales meet contemporary attractions like rock concerts, adventure sports, and art exhibitions.
More than just a cultural showcase, the festival serves as a reminder of the importance of community, identity, and respect for nature. Today, it is regarded as one of the most iconic cultural festivals in India, drawing travelers and culture enthusiasts from across the globe.
What Makes the Hornbill Festival Special?
The Hornbill Festival stands as Nagaland’s premier cultural event, drawing visitors from across the globe. Held annually from 1st to 10th December at the Kisama Heritage Village , approximately 12 km from Kohima , the festival offers an immersive experience into the rich traditions of the Naga tribes.
1. Cultural Immersion
The festival serves as a living museum, with each of Nagaland's 17 major tribes showcasing their unique customs, attire, and traditions. Visitors can explore tribal morungs (traditional huts), engage with locals, and participate in various cultural activities, providing an authentic insight into Naga life.
2. Traditional Performances
Daily cultural performances feature traditional dances, folk music, and warrior reenactments. These performances are not staged for tourists but are genuine expressions of the tribes' heritage, offering a deep connection to Naga traditions.
3. Indigenous Games and Sports
The festival showcases traditional Naga sports such as Naga wrestling and archery , allowing visitors to witness and appreciate the physical prowess and skills integral to Naga culture.
4. Handicrafts and Art
Artisans display a variety of handcrafted items, including handwoven shawls , bamboo products , and tribal jewellery . These crafts not only serve as souvenirs but also reflect the intricate artistry and cultural significance of the Naga people.
5. Culinary Delights
Food stalls offer a taste of traditional Naga cuisine, featuring dishes like smoked pork , bamboo shoot curry , and fermented soybean preparations. The festival is also an opportunity to sample local rice beers , each brewed with unique tribal recipes.
6. Nightlife and Music
The evenings come alive with the Hornbill Night Carnival , featuring food stalls, music, and games. A highlight is the Hornbill International Rock Contest , one of India's largest music competitions, showcasing both local and international talent.
7. Community and Connectivity
The festival fosters a sense of community, bringing together people from various tribes and regions. It serves as a platform for cultural exchange and understanding, promoting unity and preserving the diverse traditions of Nagaland.
Where is the Hornbill Festival Celebrated?
The Hornbill Festival is celebrated in Nagaland , at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama , about 12 km from Kohima . This venue brings together all 17 Naga tribes, showcasing their culture, food, music, and traditions in one place.
Why is the Hornbill Festival Celebrated?
The Hornbill Festival , also called Hornbill Mahotsav , is celebrated to preserve and showcase Nagaland’s rich tribal culture . Named after the hornbill bird , a symbol of strength and courage in Naga folklore, the festival brings together all 17 Naga tribes to display their music, dance, sports, handicrafts, and cuisine .
Started in 2000 by the Nagaland Government, it promotes unity, cultural exchange, and tourism , giving visitors a chance to experience the unique traditions and heritage of Nagaland.
Hornbill Festival Highlights
Culture, music, food, and community — all in one festival.
From warrior dances to the Hornbill International Rock Contest, the festival blends tradition with modernity. Here’s a glimpse of past Hornbill Festivals.
Glimpses of Hornbill Festival with Encamp!
Set in the cultural heart of Nagaland, the Hornbill Festival is more than just an event — it’s a 10-day celebration of tribal heritage, music, dance, food, and unforgettable experiences.
Expect vibrant performances, local cuisine, craft markets, adventure sports, and a global crowd coming together for one reason:
Hornbill is the Festival of Festivals!
EnCamp’s Hornbill Festival Package: Culture, Stay & Beyond
Your all-in-one pass to Hornbill 2025 — with exclusive discounts and zero hassle.
The Hornbill Festival is not just a cultural show — it’s a 10-day immersion into the heritage of Nagaland. From warrior dances to food festivals, rock contests, and night carnivals, it’s the Festival of Festivals.
With EnCamp, we handle everything for you. From your festival pass to premium campsites or homestays, local tours, and assistance — book your entire Hornbill journey in one place.
No juggling tickets, hotels, or permits. Just show up and soak in the culture, food, and unforgettable energy.
- • Festival Ticket Included
- • Premium Campsite / Homestay Stay
- • Local Activities & Tours
- • Permits, Pick-up Services & Assistance Handled
How to Reach Hornbill Festival
1.By Air:
The nearest airport is Dimapur Airport, about 70 km from Kohima. Taxis and buses are available from Dimapur to Kohima.
2.By Train:
The nearest major railhead is Dimapur Railway Station, well-connected to Guwahati and other major cities in the Northeast.
3.By Road:
Kohima is connected via NH29. You can take state-run buses, shared taxis, or private cabs from Dimapur or Guwahati.
The festival venue, Kisama Heritage Village, is just 12 km from Kohima town.
Need Help with Travel?
Getting to Hornbill is easy with us. We offer convenient pick-up and drop services from Dimapur Airport, Dimapur Railway Station, and Kohima — so you don’t have to worry about a thing.
Our pre-arranged transfers are reliable, comfortable, and synced with the festival schedule. Whether you’re solo or in a group, we’ve got you covered.
Add it to your package during checkout and we’ll take care of the rest.
Where to Stay?
Book early — campsites & homestays near Kisama fill up quickly.
Accommodation during the Hornbill Festival is limited and usually gets booked months in advance. Hotels in Kohima are few, and homestays near Kisama are quickly reserved.
That’s why most festival-goers choose to stay in camps or curated homestays for an authentic experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or family, Encamp offers premium campsite and homestay options with added perks like bonfires, local experiences, and 24×7 support.
EnCamp’s Hornbill Festival Basecamp!
Hornbill 2025 Stay Packages
Culture. Comfort. Community.
Enjoy the Hornbill Festival with Encamp’s carefully curated stays. Whether camping under the stars or in a warm homestay, your stay will be filled with cultural immersion and comfort.
Bonfire nights, local food, cultural tours, and morning treks — everything’s part of the experience. Don’t miss our exclusive deals!
Encamp Adventures
Your Stay at Hornbill
The Ultimate Festival Stay
Trusted. Comfortable. Culture-Ready.
Things To Do at Hornbill Festival
- Watch Traditional Dances & Music: Experience vibrant tribal dances, folk songs, and indigenous instruments that bring Nagaland's cultural heritage alive.
- Indulge in Naga Cuisine: Try local delicacies like smoked meat, bamboo shoot dishes, and fiery chutneys a must for food lovers.
- Shop Tribal Handicrafts: Explore stalls selling handwoven shawls, bamboo artefacts, jewellery, and wood carvings made by local artisans.
- Attend the Rock Music Festival: The Hornbill International Rock Contest is a crowd favourite, featuring bands from across the country.
- Adventure Sports: Take part in cycling events, motor rallies, and traditional games that add thrill to the cultural vibe.
- Camping at Hornbill Festival: Stay in homestays or camps near Kisama Heritage Village for an immersive cultural experience.
- Photography: From colourful costumes to breathtaking landscapes, the festival is a paradise for photographers.
Food to Try at the Hornbill Festival
The Hornbill Festival is not just about dance and culture it's also a food lover's delight. Each Naga tribe brings its traditional dishes, giving visitors a rare chance to taste authentic local flavours in one place. Some must-try items include:
- Smoked Pork with Bamboo Shoot a signature Naga delicacy with earthy, smoky flavours.
- Axone (Fermented Soybean) used in chutneys, curries, and pork preparations.
- Sticky Rice & Millet Dishes staple accompaniments often served in bamboo containers.
- Naga Chilli Chutney (Raja Mircha) fiery hot; Raja Mircha is famous as one of the world's spiciest chillies.
- Zutho a traditional rice beer with a mildly sour, refreshing taste.
- Steamed Fish in Bamboo fish cooked inside bamboo with herbs and spices.
You'll also find fusion stalls, organic produce, and food competitions, but the traditional kitchens are where the true flavour of Nagaland lies.
Best Days to Attend the Hornbill Festival
While the Hornbill Festival runs from 1st to 10th December , the best days to attend depend on what you want to experience:
- Opening Day (1st December): Grand opening ceremony, cultural showcase, and the parade of tribes.
- Mid-Festival (3rd6th December): Richest cultural experience with tribal dances, traditional games, food fairs, and handicraft markets in full swing.
- Final Days (9th10th December): Closing ceremony, Hornbill International Rock Contest finale, and vibrant night carnival in Kohima.
For the fullest experience, attending 34 days in the middle of the festival is ideal.
What to Buy at the Hornbill Festival
The Hornbill Festival doubles as a vibrant handicraft and handloom fair, where you can take home authentic pieces of Naga culture. Popular buys include:
- Tribal Jewellery: Bold beaded necklaces, earrings, and ornaments made with brass, shells, and stones.
- Handwoven Shawls: Each tribe has its unique motifs and colours, making them a symbol of identity.
- Wooden Carvings & Bamboo Crafts: From decorative masks to everyday items like baskets and containers.
- Traditional Headgear: Adorned with hornbill feathers, boar tusks, and beads (replicas available for tourists).
- Organic Products: Naga coffee, honey, and local spices.
- Tribal Artefacts: Miniature morungs (traditional houses), pipes, and handmade knives.
Tip: Buy directly from local artisans stalls at Kisama Heritage Village to support the communities and ensure authenticity.
What to Explore Beyond the Hornbill Festival
While the Hornbill Festival is the highlight of Nagaland, the state offers a wealth of experiences for travellers seeking more than just the festival.
Nature & Adventure
- Dzkou Valley: A pristine high-altitude valley famous for rolling meadows and seasonal blooms of the rare Dzkou lily. Ideal for trekking and nature photography.
- Japfu Peak: The second-highest peak in Nagaland, offering panoramic views and a rewarding trek through dense forests.
- Khonoma Green Village: India's first green village, renowned for eco-friendly practices and traditional architecture.
- Mon District & Longwa Village: Explore the heritage of the Konyak tribe and visit Longwa Village, which straddles the IndiaMyanmar border.
Culture & Heritage
- Kohima War Cemetery: A poignant site commemorating soldiers of the Battle of Kohima during World War II.
- Mokokchung: Often called the cultural capital of Nagaland, offering insights into Ao tribal traditions, festivals, and crafts.
- Touphema Village: A picturesque village near Kohima offering traditional Naga huts for an authentic cultural experience.
Wildlife & Conservation
- Nagaland Zoological Park: Located in Rangapahar; home to species including the great Indian hornbill and hoolock gibbons.
Local Experiences
- Kohima Local Market: Sample local delicacies like smoked pork and bamboo shoot dishes, and shop for traditional handicrafts.
Why Camp With Us?
Experience, Comfort & Cultural Immersion
10+ years of festival expertise. One unforgettable stay.
We’re not just another vendor — we know what travellers need for the Hornbill Festival. Our on-ground experience, local partnerships, and hospitality set us apart.
From safe, supervised stays to thoughtful touches like morning tea and bonfire nights — everything we do is designed for your best experience.
That’s why we’re trusted by hundreds of travellers every Hornbill season.
600+ Happy Encampers!
Things to Know Before You Go
Read this before you pack your bags for Hornbill.
- Festival Dates : Held annually from 1st to 10th December in Kisama Heritage Village, near Kohima.
- Entry Tickets : A small entry fee applies; foreign tourists may need an Protected Area Permit (PAP).
- Weather : December is chilly in Nagaland, with temperatures between 4C to 15C pack warm clothes.
- Connectivity : Mobile network can be patchy; carry offline maps and inform family in advance.
- Cash & ATMs : ATMs are limited; keep sufficient cash for food, shopping, and transport.
- Stay Options : Book hotels, homestays, or camping near Kisama well in advance, as accommodations fill up quickly.
- Local Etiquette : Respect local customs, ask before clicking photos, and avoid littering.
Activities to Do at the Hornbill Festival
Experience Nagaland Beyond the Stage
Personalize Your Experience with Extra Activities
At the Hornbill Festival, you can do much more than watch performances. Taste Naga cuisine, shop handicrafts, try adventure sports, and join local tours for an immersive cultural journey.
Explore Beyond the Hornbill Festival
Add-on tours like Dzüko Valley, Japfü Peak, and Khonoma Green Village available.
Hornbill Diaries – Peek into the Experience
A Glimpse into the Vibe – Past Hornbill Moments
Ready to Book Your
Hornbill Festival 2025 Experience?
Your Hornbill Adventure Starts Here
Limited stays. Unlimited culture.
Skip the hassle — get your discounted festival tickets, premium stays, and epic local experiences in one smooth booking. Lock in your spot now and experience Nagaland’s Festival of Festivals stress-free!
Book My All-In-One Hornbill Package
