By AirDimapur Airport (DMU)
The nearest airport is at Dimapur, about 74 km from Kohima. From Dimapur take a taxi or shared vehicle to Kohima, then to Kisama.
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- Hornbill Festival
Festival of Festivals
Hornbill Festival Nagaland 1–10 December · Kisama Heritage Village
Naga tribal dances, music and food at Kisama Heritage Village near Kohima — we plan your stay, transfers and permits.
- 10Days of festival
- 17+Naga tribes
- 12 kmKohima to Kisama
Why go
Why Visit the Hornbill Festival
Ten days when all the Naga tribes gather at one place — the programme changes every year.
- 01
Tribal Morungs
Traditional huts of the Naga tribes, with their architecture and artefacts.
- 02
Dances & Music
Folk dances and songs in colourful costumes, plus live concerts in the evenings.
- 03
Naga Food
Smoked pork, bamboo-shoot dishes and fiery chillies at the food stalls.
- 04
Crafts & Night Market
Hand-woven shawls, beadwork and the lively Kohima night market.
Getting there
How to Reach the Hornbill Festival
Dimapur is the gateway — from there it is a road journey to Kohima and Kisama.
By RailDimapur Railway Station
Dimapur is also the nearest railhead. Reach Dimapur by train, then continue by road to Kohima (about 74 km).
By RoadDimapur → Kohima → Kisama
Buses and private taxis run from Dimapur to Kohima. Kisama Heritage Village is about 12 km further, on the Kohima–Imphal road (NH-29).
Sample plan
A Simple 4-Day Hornbill Festival Plan
A suggested outline — we can customise it to your dates, group and budget.
- Day 1Arrive at Dimapur, drive to Kohima
- Day 2Hornbill Festival at Kisama Heritage Village
- Day 3More of the festival, or Kohima sightseeing and the night market
- Day 4Return to Dimapur — or extend to Dzukou Valley
Beyond the festival
Add a Nagaland Trek to Your Hornbill Trip
Our Nagaland package from Dimapur pairs well with the festival dates.
Dzukou Valley Trek, Nagaland
Extend your Hornbill trip with a 2-day trek from Viswema village to the meadows of Dzukou Valley — a homestay night, a camp night under the stars and 3 days in total, starting from Dimapur.
Starting from ₹6,499 / person
Before you go
Good to Know
- 01
Book early
Hotels in Kohima fill up quickly during the festival — book your stay and transport well in advance.
- 02
Permits
Visitors to Nagaland need the required permit (Inner Line Permit for Indian visitors). Carry valid photo ID and ask us about permit rules.
- 03
Pack warm
December mornings and evenings in the hills are cold — carry warm clothing, a jacket and comfortable shoes.
- 04
Check the programme
The schedule of performances and contests changes each year — confirm the day-wise programme before you finalise your plan.
Good to know
Hornbill Festival — FAQs
Quick answers about dates, venue, permits and planning.
When is the Hornbill Festival held?
The Hornbill Festival is held every year from 1 to 10 December, coinciding with Nagaland’s Statehood Day. Check the official Nagaland tourism announcements for the exact programme of each edition.
Where is the Hornbill Festival held?
It is held at Kisama Heritage Village (the Naga Heritage Village), about 12 km from Kohima, the capital of Nagaland.
Which airport and railway station are nearest?
Dimapur has the nearest airport and railway station, about 74 km from Kohima. From Dimapur you can take a taxi, shared vehicle or bus to Kohima.
Do I need a permit to visit Nagaland?
Yes, visitors need the required permit — an Inner Line Permit for Indian visitors. Carry valid photo ID and check the latest rules before travel; we can guide you on permits.
Can I combine Hornbill Festival with a trek?
Yes. The Dzukou Valley Trek in Nagaland (3 days from Dimapur, starting from ₹6,499 per person) can be added before or after the festival. It needs warm clothing and proper trekking shoes.
Plan Your Hornbill Festival Trip
Tell us your dates, group size and budget — we will help with your stay, transfers and permits and send a quote.