Hornbill Festival 2025: Dates, Ticket Prices, Full Schedule, Location, and More

Hornbill Festival 2025: Celebrating Nagaland’s Rich Tribal Heritage

The Hornbill Festival — often called the “Festival of Festivals” — is back with its 26th edition in 2025, transforming Nagaland’s Kisama Heritage Village into a vibrant celebration of tribal culture, music, crafts, and cuisine. Held every year to honour the rich traditions of the Naga tribes, the festival attracts thousands of travellers from across India and abroad who come to experience the Northeast’s most colourful cultural gathering. From traditional dances to modern rock concerts, the 10-day extravaganza showcases the essence of Nagaland like nothing else.

Taking place from December 1 to December 10, 2025, the festival beautifully blends heritage and modernity, making it an unmissable winter travel experience.

1. Dates, Venue & Location

The Hornbill Festival 2025 officially runs from December 1 to December 10 at the iconic Kisama Heritage Village, located around 12 km from Kohima, the state capital. Set amidst lush hills and traditional morung structures, Kisama offers visitors a close look at the customs of Nagaland’s major tribes.

This year’s opening also coincides with Nagaland’s 63rd Statehood Day, adding patriotic significance to the celebrations. As one of the Northeast’s largest cultural gatherings, the venue is expected to draw massive crowds, from cultural enthusiasts to photographers and global tourists.

2. Ticket Prices & Entry Details

Entry tickets for the Hornbill Festival 2025 remain affordable, allowing everyone to experience the cultural spectacle.

• Entry Ticket: ₹50–₹100 per person per day
• Camera Pass: Additional ₹50 for photography/videography
• Where to buy: Tickets are mainly available at festival counters in Kisama
• Permits:
  • Indian tourists require an Inner Line Permit (ILP)
  • Foreign tourists may require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) or registration

Travellers are advised to keep permits and IDs handy, as security checks at the venue are strict due to high footfall.

3. Full Schedule Highlights

Every day at the Hornbill Festival is packed with cultural performances, contests, workshops, and music shows. Gates usually open at 9:00 AM, with activities running until late evening.

What the 10-day lineup includes:

• Traditional Warrior Dances & Folk Music
  Performances by various Naga tribes celebrating bravery, harvest, love, and community.
• Indigenous Sports
  Naga wrestling, archery, bamboo climbing, log drum contests, and other tribal games.
• Handicraft & Weaving Stalls
  Showcasing handwoven shawls, bamboo art, bead jewellery, and woodcarvings.
• Authentic Naga Cuisine
  Smoked pork, bamboo shoots, sticky rice, naga chilli delicacies, and locally-brewed rice beer.
• Night Carnival & Rock Concerts
  The festival’s nightlife is a huge attraction — featuring global music talent, indie bands, DJs, and food stalls.
• Tribal Morungs Tour
  Visitors can step inside traditional tribal houses to learn about architecture, customs, tools, and artefacts.

Each day blends heritage, entertainment, and immersion, making it perfect for families, solo travellers, photographers, and culture lovers.

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4. How to Reach & Travel Tips

• Nearest Airport: Dimapur Airport
• Nearest Railway Station: Dimapur Railway Station
• Distance to Kohima: Approx. 70 km by road
• Distance to Kisama: 12 km from Kohima town

Important Tips:

• Book accommodation early — rooms sell out fast during festival dates.
• Evenings get cold in December — carry warm jackets and comfortable shoes.
• If you plan to take photos, don’t forget to buy a camera pass.
• Try exploring beyond Kisama — Kohima’s cafes, local markets, and viewpoints are worth visiting.

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Why Hornbill Festival 2025 Is Worth Visiting

The Hornbill Festival isn’t just a cultural event — it’s a celebration of identity, unity, and heritage. It offers a rare chance to witness the traditions of all Naga tribes under one roof, while also enjoying contemporary music, food, and tourism experiences. For 2025, the festival promises bigger performances, a more immersive village setup, and enhanced facilities for travellers.

Whether you’re a culture lover, photographer, foodie, or music enthusiast, the Hornbill Festival 2025 is a spectacular way to end the year.

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