Nagaland Hornbill Festival Tour
12 Days / India
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Dev Raj Nepal
+977 9851096523
Detailed Itinerary
01
DAY
01
Upon arrival in New Delhi, you will be greeted with a warm welcome and assisted to your hotel. After check-in, take a moment to settle in and unwind. If time permits, you can explore a few highlights of New Delhi, such as a gentle drive past India Gate, a quiet visit to Humayun’s Tomb, or a short walk through the vibrant lanes of Connaught Place. If you prefer a slower pace after your journey, you can simply relax at the hotel, enjoy a cup of chai, and ease into the rhythm of your trip.
Arrival – New Delhi
Upon arrival in New Delhi, you will be greeted with a warm welcome and assisted to your hotel. After check-in, take a moment to settle in and unwind. If time permits, you can explore a few highlights of New Delhi, such as a gentle drive past India Gate, a quiet visit to Humayun’s Tomb, or a short walk through the vibrant lanes of Connaught Place. If you prefer a slower pace after your journey, you can simply relax at the hotel, enjoy a cup of chai, and ease into the rhythm of your trip.
02
DAY
02
Arrive in Dimapur by flight from New Delhi. From the airport, begin a scenic drive toward Kohima, passing through rolling hills, quiet villages, and stretches of forested landscape that introduce you to the charm of Nagaland. The journey offers glimpses of rural life, terraced fields, and occasional roadside markets selling local produce.
Upon reaching Kohima, check into your accommodation and take time to settle in. You may choose to stroll around the nearby streets, visit a local café, or simply enjoy the calm atmosphere of the hill capital. Spend the evening immersed in the gentle pulse of Kohima, letting the quiet charm of the city set the tone for the days ahead.
Dimapur – Kohima
Arrive in Dimapur by flight from New Delhi. From the airport, begin a scenic drive toward Kohima, passing through rolling hills, quiet villages, and stretches of forested landscape that introduce you to the charm of Nagaland. The journey offers glimpses of rural life, terraced fields, and occasional roadside markets selling local produce.
Upon reaching Kohima, check into your accommodation and take time to settle in. You may choose to stroll around the nearby streets, visit a local café, or simply enjoy the calm atmosphere of the hill capital. Spend the evening immersed in the gentle pulse of Kohima, letting the quiet charm of the city set the tone for the days ahead.
03
DAY
03
Travel from Kohima to Kisama Heritage Village, the grand stage of Nagaland’s iconic Hornbill Festival, celebrated annually to honor the state’s tribal heritage. Today is a feast for the senses—witness the energy of traditional dances performed in vibrant tribal attire, listen to the pulsating rhythms of folk music, and marvel at centuries-old customs brought vividly to life. Explore the craft village, where artisans display intricate handwoven textiles, beadwork, bamboo crafts, and wood carvings, each telling a story of Naga identity and tradition.
Indulge in the flavors of authentic Naga cuisine, from smoked meats and aromatic rice dishes to locally brewed beverages, and watch exhilarating indigenous sports that test strength, skill, and teamwork. The festival’s atmosphere is infectious, a blend of celebration, history, and community spirit, offering a deep and immersive insight into Nagaland’s soul.
As the day comes to a close, return to Kohima and let the evening envelope you with a sense of wonder, carrying the colors, sounds, and stories of the Hornbill Festival into your night in the hill capital.
Kohima – Hornbill Festival (Kisama Heritage Village)
Travel from Kohima to Kisama Heritage Village, the grand stage of Nagaland’s iconic Hornbill Festival, celebrated annually to honor the state’s tribal heritage. Today is a feast for the senses—witness the energy of traditional dances performed in vibrant tribal attire, listen to the pulsating rhythms of folk music, and marvel at centuries-old customs brought vividly to life. Explore the craft village, where artisans display intricate handwoven textiles, beadwork, bamboo crafts, and wood carvings, each telling a story of Naga identity and tradition.
Indulge in the flavors of authentic Naga cuisine, from smoked meats and aromatic rice dishes to locally brewed beverages, and watch exhilarating indigenous sports that test strength, skill, and teamwork. The festival’s atmosphere is infectious, a blend of celebration, history, and community spirit, offering a deep and immersive insight into Nagaland’s soul.
As the day comes to a close, return to Kohima and let the evening envelope you with a sense of wonder, carrying the colors, sounds, and stories of the Hornbill Festival into your night in the hill capital.
04
DAY
04
After breakfast, drive from Kohima to Kigwema village, a charming Angami Naga settlement where traditional life continues much as it has for generations. Take a moment to observe the unique architecture, terraced fields, and local rhythms of village life before proceeding to the trailhead of the Dzukou Valley trek.
The trek winds through dense, verdant forests, along rolling ridges, and across sparkling streams, offering glimpses of wildflowers and the serene beauty of Nagaland’s landscapes. With every step, the scenery gradually unfolds, culminating in the breathtaking Dzukou Valley, a place famous for its seasonal carpets of flowers, misty mornings, and pristine natural charm. Spend the night in simple trekkers’ huts or camp within the valley, falling asleep under the stars, surrounded by the quiet magic of this highland paradise.
Kohima – Kigwema – Dzukou Valley Trek
After breakfast, drive from Kohima to Kigwema village, a charming Angami Naga settlement where traditional life continues much as it has for generations. Take a moment to observe the unique architecture, terraced fields, and local rhythms of village life before proceeding to the trailhead of the Dzukou Valley trek.
The trek winds through dense, verdant forests, along rolling ridges, and across sparkling streams, offering glimpses of wildflowers and the serene beauty of Nagaland’s landscapes. With every step, the scenery gradually unfolds, culminating in the breathtaking Dzukou Valley, a place famous for its seasonal carpets of flowers, misty mornings, and pristine natural charm. Spend the night in simple trekkers’ huts or camp within the valley, falling asleep under the stars, surrounded by the quiet magic of this highland paradise.
05
DAY
05
Wake up early to witness the valley bathed in the golden glow of sunrise, with mist weaving through the rolling meadows and distant hills. Spend the morning exploring Dzukou’s sparkling streams, hidden groves, and vibrant seasonal flowers, soaking in the serene beauty and fresh mountain air.
After a leisurely trek back to Kigwema village, arrive at a warm homestay where you can experience authentic Angami hospitality. Share stories with your hosts, savor traditional meals, and enjoy the pace of village life, letting the sights, sounds, and flavors of Nagaland linger in your memory.
Dzukou Valley – Kigwema
Wake up early to witness the valley bathed in the golden glow of sunrise, with mist weaving through the rolling meadows and distant hills. Spend the morning exploring Dzukou’s sparkling streams, hidden groves, and vibrant seasonal flowers, soaking in the serene beauty and fresh mountain air.
After a leisurely trek back to Kigwema village, arrive at a warm homestay where you can experience authentic Angami hospitality. Share stories with your hosts, savor traditional meals, and enjoy the pace of village life, letting the sights, sounds, and flavors of Nagaland linger in your memory.
06
DAY
06
Depart Kigwema and drive toward Mokokchung, the cultural heart of the Ao Nagas. The journey winds through rolling hills, verdant forests, and picturesque villages, offering glimpses of everyday life in Nagaland. En route, visit traditional Ao settlements, where you can see unique morungs (youth dormitories), intricate log drums, and hear stories of local folklore passed down through generations.
Arrive in Mokokchung and explore its bustling markets, where vibrant textiles, handicrafts, and local produce reflect the region’s rich heritage. Venture to nearby hilltop settlements for panoramic views and a closer look at Ao architecture and traditions. In the evening, settle into your hotel and soak in the charm of this historic town.
Kigwema – Mokokchung
Depart Kigwema and drive toward Mokokchung, the cultural heart of the Ao Nagas. The journey winds through rolling hills, verdant forests, and picturesque villages, offering glimpses of everyday life in Nagaland. En route, visit traditional Ao settlements, where you can see unique morungs (youth dormitories), intricate log drums, and hear stories of local folklore passed down through generations.
Arrive in Mokokchung and explore its bustling markets, where vibrant textiles, handicrafts, and local produce reflect the region’s rich heritage. Venture to nearby hilltop settlements for panoramic views and a closer look at Ao architecture and traditions. In the evening, settle into your hotel and soak in the charm of this historic town.
07
DAY
07
Set off early from Mokokchung for a scenic drive through hills and remote stretches of Nagaland, arriving in Mon by afternoon. Along the way, the landscape gradually shifts from lush greenery to rugged terrain, giving a sense of entering a truly remote tribal region.
Upon arrival in Mon, check into a modest local lodge or guesthouse. After a short break, take a walking tour of Mon town and nearby villages. Explore tribal settlements where the legacy of the Konyak tribe comes alive in long-houses, traditional wooden carvings, log-drums, and heritage “skull-houses.” Observe tribal attire, intricate jewelry, and perhaps elders carrying symbolic dao machetes.
If time allows, visit nearby villages such as Shangnyu or Chui to see old monuments, carved wooden art, and the enduring echoes of historical customs. In the evening, return to your lodge in Mon town, enjoy a meal of local tribal fare, and soak in the unique atmosphere of a town that feels far removed from modern bustle yet rich with culture and history. Overnight stay at a hotel or guesthouse in Mon.
Mokokchung – Mon
Set off early from Mokokchung for a scenic drive through hills and remote stretches of Nagaland, arriving in Mon by afternoon. Along the way, the landscape gradually shifts from lush greenery to rugged terrain, giving a sense of entering a truly remote tribal region.
Upon arrival in Mon, check into a modest local lodge or guesthouse. After a short break, take a walking tour of Mon town and nearby villages. Explore tribal settlements where the legacy of the Konyak tribe comes alive in long-houses, traditional wooden carvings, log-drums, and heritage “skull-houses.” Observe tribal attire, intricate jewelry, and perhaps elders carrying symbolic dao machetes.
If time allows, visit nearby villages such as Shangnyu or Chui to see old monuments, carved wooden art, and the enduring echoes of historical customs. In the evening, return to your lodge in Mon town, enjoy a meal of local tribal fare, and soak in the unique atmosphere of a town that feels far removed from modern bustle yet rich with culture and history. Overnight stay at a hotel or guesthouse in Mon.
08
DAY
08
Spend the day exploring Longwa village, perched on the Indo-Myanmar border, where the chief’s house uniquely spans both countries. Observe tattooed elders, intricate wooden carvings, and architectural details that reflect the rich heritage of the Konyak tribe. Take the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life. In the evening, return to Mon and settle in at your lodge, carrying with you the stories and sights of a truly remarkable cultural experience.
Mon- Excursion to Longwa
Spend the day exploring Longwa village, perched on the Indo-Myanmar border, where the chief’s house uniquely spans both countries. Observe tattooed elders, intricate wooden carvings, and architectural details that reflect the rich heritage of the Konyak tribe. Take the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life. In the evening, return to Mon and settle in at your lodge, carrying with you the stories and sights of a truly remarkable cultural experience.
09
DAY
09
Leave Mon in the morning and head toward Jorhat. The drive winds down through hills, tea‑garden country and Assam’s lush landscapes, gradually shifting from tribal hills to riverine Assam.
On arrival in Jorhat, check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up. Afterwards, stroll through the town, where you might visit a local market, walk along busy streets, or enjoy tea at a local café to soak in Assam’s slower‑paced city life. As evening falls, settle in for the night in Jorhat, with an option to sample Assamese cuisine and rest up for the next leg of the journey.
Mon – Jorhat
Leave Mon in the morning and head toward Jorhat. The drive winds down through hills, tea‑garden country and Assam’s lush landscapes, gradually shifting from tribal hills to riverine Assam.
On arrival in Jorhat, check into your hotel and take some time to freshen up. Afterwards, stroll through the town, where you might visit a local market, walk along busy streets, or enjoy tea at a local café to soak in Assam’s slower‑paced city life. As evening falls, settle in for the night in Jorhat, with an option to sample Assamese cuisine and rest up for the next leg of the journey.
10
DAY
10
From Jorhat, journey to the ferry point and cross the Brahmaputra to reach Majuli, the world’s largest inhabited river island. Once on the island, explore the famous satras, monastic institutions that preserve centuries-old religious, cultural, and artistic traditions. Wander through the villages and meet local artisans creating intricate masks, traditional pottery, and handwoven textiles, gaining insight into the island’s unique crafts and customs.
Stroll along the riverbanks and wetlands, observing the abundant birdlife and the tranquil natural beauty that surrounds the villages. Enjoy the serene pace of life on the island and engage with the locals to learn about their daily routines, festivals, and folklore. After a full day of cultural immersion and exploration, return to Jorhat by evening, or choose to stay overnight on Majuli to experience its peaceful atmosphere under the starlit sky.
Jorhat – Majuli – Jorhat
From Jorhat, journey to the ferry point and cross the Brahmaputra to reach Majuli, the world’s largest inhabited river island. Once on the island, explore the famous satras, monastic institutions that preserve centuries-old religious, cultural, and artistic traditions. Wander through the villages and meet local artisans creating intricate masks, traditional pottery, and handwoven textiles, gaining insight into the island’s unique crafts and customs.
Stroll along the riverbanks and wetlands, observing the abundant birdlife and the tranquil natural beauty that surrounds the villages. Enjoy the serene pace of life on the island and engage with the locals to learn about their daily routines, festivals, and folklore. After a full day of cultural immersion and exploration, return to Jorhat by evening, or choose to stay overnight on Majuli to experience its peaceful atmosphere under the starlit sky.
11
DAY
11
Leave Jorhat in the morning and travel to Kaziranga National Park. The park spreads across floodplain grasslands, wetlands, marshes, and forest patches shaped by the local river systems. It is a rich mosaic of water bodies, tall grasses, marshy swamps, and woodland that together form one of South Asia’s most diverse wildlife habitats.
Once inside the park, embark on a wildlife safari. Spot the park’s star residents, including the magnificent one‑horned rhinoceros, and watch herds of wild water buffalo and groups of elephants grazing in the grasslands. Eastern swamp deer can often be seen near waterholes, while smaller mammals, langurs, gibbons, and even elusive jungle cats inhabit the forest patches.
Bird‑lovers will enjoy the wetlands, home to a wide variety of waterfowl and migratory species. The safari offers a chance to witness the beauty of the park in its natural rhythms and experience the harmony of wildlife and landscapes. After the safari, continue to Guwahati and check into your hotel. Rest and reflect on a day filled with nature, wildlife, and the serene riverine beauty of Kaziranga.
Jorhat – Kaziranga – Guwahati
Leave Jorhat in the morning and travel to Kaziranga National Park. The park spreads across floodplain grasslands, wetlands, marshes, and forest patches shaped by the local river systems. It is a rich mosaic of water bodies, tall grasses, marshy swamps, and woodland that together form one of South Asia’s most diverse wildlife habitats.
Once inside the park, embark on a wildlife safari. Spot the park’s star residents, including the magnificent one‑horned rhinoceros, and watch herds of wild water buffalo and groups of elephants grazing in the grasslands. Eastern swamp deer can often be seen near waterholes, while smaller mammals, langurs, gibbons, and even elusive jungle cats inhabit the forest patches.
Bird‑lovers will enjoy the wetlands, home to a wide variety of waterfowl and migratory species. The safari offers a chance to witness the beauty of the park in its natural rhythms and experience the harmony of wildlife and landscapes. After the safari, continue to Guwahati and check into your hotel. Rest and reflect on a day filled with nature, wildlife, and the serene riverine beauty of Kaziranga.
12
DAY
12
In the morning, transfer to Guwahati airport for your flight back to New Delhi, concluding your journey through Nagaland and Assam. From Delhi, catch your connecting flight in the evening for departure.
Guwahati – New Delhi – Departure
In the morning, transfer to Guwahati airport for your flight back to New Delhi, concluding your journey through Nagaland and Assam. From Delhi, catch your connecting flight in the evening for departure.
Includes / Excludes
Inclusions
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Accommodation on twin‑sharing or double room
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Meals as described in the itinerary
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All transport and transfers as per the itinerary
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Inner‑state permits or local permits required
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Permits and permissions required for trekking, national parks, protected areas, or special zones
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Basic logistic support (e.g. pick‑up and drop‑off, planning/ coordination) and standard taxes
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Domestic Flights (New Delhi – Guwahati – New Delhi)
Exclusions
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India Visa Fee
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International flights
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Meals not specified in the itinerary
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Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, laundry, phone calls, tips / gratuities, souvenirs, shopping)
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Optional activities or excursions that are not part of the core itinerary
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Travel insurance, medical expenses, emergency costs
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Any extra cost due to unforeseen changes
Trip Info
The Hornbill Festival, often dubbed the “Festival of Festivals,” is an annual cultural extravaganza held in Nagaland, India, typically from December 1st to 10th. First organized in 2000 by the Government of Nagaland, the festival was created to promote and preserve the traditional cultural heritage of the various Naga tribes, whose unique customs, languages, and traditions were at risk of fading under modern influences. Named after the Indian hornbill, a bird revered in Naga folklore as a symbol of grandeur, courage, and unity, the festival serves as an important platform that brings together all of Nagaland’s diverse tribes to celebrate and showcase their cultural richness through a vibrant collective display.
Held at Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima, the state capital, the Hornbill Festival is a multi-day event that features a colorful mix of tribal dances, music, indigenous games, craft exhibitions, and traditional cuisine. Each participating tribe presents its unique cultural identity through elaborate costumes, folk songs, and vibrant dances that tell stories of their heritage. Artisan markets within the festival grounds display exquisite handlooms, beadwork, wood carvings, and other traditional crafts, offering visitors a chance to engage directly with local artisans and purchase authentic souvenirs. The festival also includes cultural competitions, sports such as archery and wrestling, and other community events that emphasize the shared heritage and interconnectedness of the tribes.
Aside from its cultural significance, the Hornbill Festival plays a vital role in fostering unity among Nagaland’s various tribal communities, encouraging inter-tribal interaction and mutual respect. It also functions as a driver for tourism and economic development in the region, attracting visitors from across India and abroad to experience Nagaland’s rich culture firsthand. The festival acts as a living museum where age-old traditions, rituals, and folklore are kept alive and passed on to younger generations, ensuring the continuity of Naga identity amid changing times.
Overall, the Hornbill Festival is not just a celebration but a powerful cultural preservation effort, a forum for cultural exchange, and an exuberant expression of Nagaland’s diversity and community spirit. Known for its immersive atmosphere and authentic experiences, the festival offers visitors a rare opportunity to delve deeply into the customs, history, and artistry of the Naga people in a single vibrant event
Hornbill Festival Tour
This Hornbill Fesitval tour offers a unique journey across two vibrant states, Nagaland and Assam, immersing travelers in a world of rich tribal culture, scenic landscapes, and authentic local experiences. From the bustling hill capital of Kohima to the remote villages of the Ao, Angami, and Konyak tribes, the tour provides a deep dive into the traditions, crafts, and daily life of communities that have preserved their heritage for generations. The highlight of the journey is the world-famous Hornbill Festival, where music, dance, indigenous sports, and colorful attire bring centuries-old customs vividly to life.
Beyond the festival, the tour winds through lush valleys, rolling hills, and forested trails, offering plenty of opportunities for adventure and exploration. Trek the pristine Dzukou Valley, visit quaint villages, and witness the unique architecture of longhouses and morungs. Travelers also enjoy a taste of local flavors, from smoked meats and aromatic rice dishes to hand-crafted beverages, connecting with the people and their way of life at every stop. Majuli, the world’s largest inhabited river island, adds a serene counterpoint, with its monastic institutions, craft traditions, and tranquil riverine landscapes.
This journey also offers glimpses of Assam’s natural beauty and wildlife, from birdwatching along wetlands to spotting elephants, swamp deer, and rhinos in Kaziranga National Park. Remote and off the typical tourist trail, this tour allows travelers to experience a side of North East India that sees very few visitors, making every encounter, every village, and every festival moment feel intimate and authentic. It is a rare opportunity to explore the rich cultural and natural heritage of this region while engaging with its people in a truly meaningful way.
December marks the beginning of winter in Nagaland and Assam, bringing cool and comfortable temperatures that make exploring both the hills and valleys enjoyable.
Nagaland: daytime temperatures usually range between 15°C and 20°C, while nights can dip to around 7°C to 10°C, especially in higher altitude areas like Kohima and the Dzukou Valley. The air is generally clear and fresh, offering stunning visibility for scenic vistas, trekking, and photography.
Assam: Places like Jorhat, Majuli, and Kaziranga, enjoys mild and dry weather during this month, with daytime temperatures hovering around 20°C to 25°C and cooler evenings around 10°C to 15°C. The climate is perfect for exploring river islands, wetlands, and wildlife sanctuaries, and the low humidity makes travel and outdoor activities comfortable.
Overall, December is one of the best months to experience this North East India tour. The pleasant weather allows you to fully enjoy the Hornbill Festival, trek scenic valleys, explore tribal villages, and witness wildlife without the interruptions of rain or extreme heat.
Throughout this North East India Hornbill Festival Tour, you stay in a mix of comfortable hotels, charming lodges, and authentic homestays that reflect the spirit of the region.
In Nagaland, accommodations are simple yet welcoming, often run by local families who ensure warm hospitality and home-style meals. Places like Kohima and Kigwema offer cosy hotels and homestays where you can unwind after festival days and village exploration, while the overnight stay in Dzukou Valley is in basic trekkers’ huts or tented camps that bring you close to the valley’s pristine landscapes and star-filled skies.
In Mokokchung and Mon, the lodges are modest but clean, giving you an intimate experience of Ao and Konyak culture. These stays offer a genuine look into village life, from traditional architecture to local culinary flavours shared around the hearth. The atmosphere feels personal and grounded, far from mass tourism.
As you move into Assam, accommodation standards rise with comfortable hotels in Jorhat and Guwahati offering modern amenities, spacious rooms, and relaxing environments.
FAQs
Personalized Travel Advice
Dev Raj Nepal
+977 9851096523