The "Festival of Festivals," i.e. the Hornbill Festival, is all set to be back in Nagaland with much more grandeur this year. The festival was disrupted for two years (2020 and 2021) due to the Covid-19 pandemic. But with preparations in full swing, it will be a grand affair this year with new ideas and concepts. If you plan to visit the festival, here's all you need to know beforehand.
History
The festival was first organised in 2000 as a mixture of cultural exhibitions and it will be its 23rd edition this year. It's named after the Indian Hornbill&ndasha common bird in Nagaland's folklore and often seen in the state's forests. Owing to the pandemic, the event was virtually celebrated for three days in 2020. However, it was abandoned in 2022 in the middle due to the killing of citizens at Oting in the Mon district.
Motive
The festival is meant to showcase Nagaland's cultural heritage and foster inter-tribal cooperation. Additionally, it seeks to preserve and promote Nagaland's heritage. Meanwhile, it allows tourists to gain a deeper understanding of Nagaland's people and culture.
What All Can You Expect
Nagaland and other regions of India come together for the event. You can participate in the festival's vigorous activities, crafts, sporting events, food festivals, and games. Additionally, on the show are traditional artworks such as paintings, woodcarvings, and sculptures. It also features fashion presentations, beauty pageants, traditional archery, Naga wrestling, indigenous activities, and music performances.
Location and Duration
As usual, the festival will be held at the Naga Heritage Village in Kisama, about 12 km from the capital city of Kohima. The area is designed to resemble the map of Nagaland, with tribal huts allocated per their geographical locations. It will be held from December 1 to 10.
Must Remember
Domestic tourists must have an Inner Line Permit (ILP) for access into Nagaland. The cost is INR 50 for 15 days and INR 500 for 365 days. You can obtain the ILP by logging in to the Nagaland government's official website.
How to Reach
By air Nagaland has an airport in Dimapur, which is regularly serviced by major airlines. Tourists will then have to travel to Kohima by road.
By road The state has a good road network. First, proceed towards Dimapur and then to Kohima.
By rail The central railway station in the state is at Dimapur. From there, you can reach Kohima via public transport or private cars.