Nagaland is opening its doors wider this year, easing travel rules for foreign visitors as the state prepares to host the Hornbill Festival. The change is expected to make it simpler for international travellers to attend an event that has grown from a local gathering into one of India’s most distinctive cultural celebrations.
Every December, Kisama — a heritage village just outside Kohima — comes alive as all major Naga tribes come together for ten days of performances, food, crafts and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Visitors get a chance to see warrior dances, folk music, wood carving, handwoven textiles and regional dishes that are rarely experienced outside the state.
Where It All Began
The Hornbill Festival was first organised in 2000, when the state government set out to create a single platform where Nagaland’s many tribes could present their heritage collectively. Before that, each tribe observed its own festivals at different times of the year, with little opportunity for outsiders to see their customs in one place.
Named after the hornbill — a bird celebrated in Naga folklore and long associated with beauty, strength and identity — the festival quickly grew in popularity and is now recognised internationally.
Also Read: Hornbill Festival 2025: Dates, Venue, Places to visit, and Things to do
Opening Up to the World
With relaxed travel rules, the state hopes to see more foreign visitors this year. Officials expect that the easier access will encourage travellers not only to attend the festival but also to explore the hills, villages and communities that give Nagaland its character.
For locals, the Hornbill Festival is more than a cultural showcase; it is a chance to share their way of life with a wider audience. Artisans, farmers and small businesses benefit from the steady stream of visitors looking for handmade crafts, traditional art and local produce.
As the upcoming edition approaches, preparations are gaining momentum. Nagaland is ready to welcome anyone seeking colour, culture and a deeper understanding of one of India’s most unique and often overlooked regions.
