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Hornbill Festival: Become One with the Naga

From INR ₹69,000.00

Duration: 7 Days (approx.)
Location: Kigwema, Nagaland

Once a year the many tribes of Nagaland gather to share their unique customs and love for the land they call home. They come together to be one community, learning from and celebrating each other. Sounds of different dialects and music from across the land mingle, as performances, art and food are shared.

There are no outsiders here. You will be inducted into Naga society by a reigning Elder and become one of the tribals. Join the celebration, visit local villages, learn the traditional ways. Leave with a full heart and a new connection with the people of Nagaland.

Day 1

Locations: Dimapur / Kohima

Transport detail: 70KMs / 4 hours

Become One of the Naga

Your journey starts in Kohima, the capital of Nagaland. As you travel through the city you will begin your immersion into Naga culture. Visit local markets filled with fruits, vegetables and products made by the indigenous people. Tour through the hills and begin to see the beauty of the land. You have the honour of meeting with an Elder for your induction into Naga society. They will guide you in the ways of the people and teach you their customs. They will impart their wisdom and prepare you to join the Naga tribes in their celebration.

Accommodation

Hotel Ariel or similar (Twin room)

Day 2

Locations: Kohima / Hornbill / Kohima

Transport detail: 15KMs / 1 hour

Celebrate Like the Naga

Now that you have become part of the Nagas you can truly begin your journey. Your first stop is a local market where you can try traditional foods of edible insects and crawling worms, organic vegetables and local spices. View the local sights amidst lush forests as you make your way to the Hornbill Festival. As you enter the festival, you will be surrounded by colourful tribal clothes and compelling folk music that tell stories of years gone by. Wander through the festival, embrace the sights, sounds and flavours of Nagaland and learn what makes each tribe unique.

Accommodation

Hotel Ariel or similar (Twin room)

Day 3

Locations: Kohima / Hornbill / Kohima

Transport detail: 30KMs / 2 Hour (Return)

Discover the Rich Naga Culture

Today you will visit Kigwema village to be a part of the daily lives of the Naga. Set within the rich landscape, Kigwema shows off traditional wood carvings and a deep connection to World War II. Learn the rich history of this village before heading back to the festival. Enjoy the festival’s cultural performances during the day, and then make your way to Kohima for the night carnival. Brightly lit and packed with vendors, this is a special carnival that happens once a year. Join the locals as they celebrate and partake in special treats and hand-crafted goods.

Accommodation

Hotel Ariel or similar (Twin room)

Day 4

Locations: Kohima / Khonoma

Transport detail: 20KMs / 1 hour

Exploring Untouched Lands

Go deeper into Nagaland and explore the rich forests that are home to more than just the Nagas. Khonoma became the first Green Village in India when the council decided to end hunting and protect the lands around them. It is now part of the Khonoma Nature Conservation and Tragopan Sanctuary, protecting many endangered species. Explore this untouched area, known only to the locals, and lose yourself amid the towering trees and sounds of the forest. The villagers will welcome you into their home and show you the natural ways of their people.

Accommodation

Dovipie Inn (Deluxe room)

Day 5

Locations: Khonoma / Khezakheno / Kohima

Transport detail: 120 KMs / 6 hours

The First of the Nagas

Travel back in time with a visit to Khezhakeno village. This is the birthplace of the Southern Naga tribes, where their ancestors first called home. Though they are now spread throughout the area, many still recognize this as the beginning of their Land. Explore the rich history and ancient stories of the people as you tour through the village. Venture to the nearby Chida Lake for a picnic lunch surrounded by green hills and the rivers and valleys where Nagaland and Manipur converge. Stop and enjoy the moment on the edge of this mystic lake where the first Southern Nagas once roamed.

Accomodation

Hotel Ariel or similar (Twin room)

Day 6

Locations: Kohima / Hornbill / Kohima

Transport detail: 30KMs / 2 hours (Return)

A Final Day of Festivities

Join the Hornbill Festival for the final day and feel the strong connection the people have with the land and each other. Take in the cultural performances and dances from each of the tribes, embracing the diverse cultures that have come together. Learn something new from one of the many local craftsmen and see their unique wares up for sale. Indulge in more of the Naga food as the day comes to a close. The festival ends with an exciting closing ceremony. Filling the night with the sounds of bamboo instruments, drums and war cries from across the land.

Accomodation

Hotel Ariel or similar (Twin room)

Day 7

Locations: Kohima / Dimapur

Transport detail: 70KMs / 4 hours

Saying Goodbye

After a full week among the Nagas, it is time to say goodbye. As you drive to the airport take in the last look of the Naga hills, looking back on the new memories made. Take with you the connection to the people and the land no matter how far you travel.