DIMAPUR — After months of hectic preparations, Nagaland is all set to host its famed Hornbill Festival at the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, which is about 12 km away from the state capital Kohima. The 10-day cultural extravaganza will begin on December 1 before culminating on the 10th.
Hornbill Festival 2024
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Hornbill Festival, which took flight in 2000. It was initially a three-day event before being extended to 10 days in view of huge traction it received from visitors. Today, it has turned into a major tourist attraction with people from various flocking in to witness the rich cultural heritage and tradition of the state.
The government of Nagaland has taken up a major
infrastructure revamp, including the gallery of the main arena, which can now
accommodate a few thousand people.
In terms of main attraction for tourists, especially first-time visitors, it will be, of course the cultural performances by various troupes from over a dozen tribes. But the festival is much more than cultural shows. It promises to offer something of many things, from music to traditional sports, food, local products to adventure, and much more.
What to expect during the festival
Troupes from more than a dozen tribes belonging to Nagaland will showcase their rich culture in the form of traditional dances, folk songs, war games etc., at the main arena in Kisama. However, it won’t be complete if the visitors fail to explore the morungs of respective tribes located in the vicinity of the main arena. The state’s produce, including handloom items, handicrafts, agricultural products etc. will also be made available on sale.
When the night falls, music will fill the hamlet as
musicians from the country and abroad take the stage to enthral the audience.
Visitors can also experience Night Carnival in Kohima.
For the adventure lovers, there is trekking to the
famous Dzukou valley, join Kigwema village walk, and more. Visitors can also
explore nearby villages like Khonoma, Jotsoma, Mima, Mezoma and Touphema; Flower
Festival at Mary Help of Christians Cathedral in Kohima, Peoples Festival at
Chida Resort in Khezhakeno, Naga Wrestling Championship at Chiechama village,
etc.
Going by past experience, traffic along the National
Highway 2 that leads to the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama, is expected to be
annoyingly slow. So, visitors are advised to leave for the venue early by at
least few hours.
However, it may be mentioned that the government of Nagaland has introduced free shuttle bus service to address traffic woes.
