Hornbill Festival
The 'Festival of Festivals' — all the major Naga tribes together for ten days of dance, music, craft and cuisine at Kisama.
Celebrated by
All major Naga tribes
When
1–10 December
Where
Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, near Kohima
The celebration
About Hornbill Festival
The Hornbill Festival is the largest and most iconic cultural festival of Nagaland, celebrated every year from 1st to 10th December at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, near Kohima. Often referred to as the “Festival of Festivals,” it brings together all the major Naga tribes to showcase their rich cultural heritage, traditions, and way of life.
The festival is a vibrant celebration of tribal identity, featuring traditional dances, folk music, indigenous games, warrior performances, handloom and handicraft exhibitions, local cuisine, and colourful ceremonial attire. Visitors can also enjoy rock concerts, cultural workshops, adventure activities, and lively night markets, making it one of Northeast India's most exciting cultural events.
For travellers, the Hornbill Festival offers an unforgettable opportunity to experience the diverse traditions, warm hospitality, and vibrant spirit of the Naga people in one spectacular celebration. It is a perfect blend of history, culture, music, art, and adventure, making it a must-visit event for anyone exploring Northeast India.
Glimpses
More festivals
Other celebrations across Arunachal Pradesh and the Northeast.
Arunachal Pradesh01Chalo Loku
The most important post-harvest festival of the Nocte tribe — thanksgiving, community bonds and age-old rituals in the Tirap hills.
Arunachal Pradesh02Dree Festival
The Apatani tribe's great agricultural festival in the Ziro Valley — rituals and feasts to bless the harvest, held every 5 July.
Arunachal Pradesh03Ziro Festival of Music
One of India's most celebrated outdoor music festivals — four days of live music amid the paddy fields and rolling hills of the Apatani Plateau.