North East India - Hornbill Festival Nagaland Photography Tour Dec 2024

Day 1: Land in Guwahati, Kaziranga

• Morning:

  • Arrive at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport, Guwahati.
  • Meet your local guide and driver.
  • Proceed towards Kaziranga National Park.
  • Enjoy a scenic drive through Assam's countryside.

• Afternoon:

  • Check-in at your pre-booked resort in Kaziranga.
  • Relax and freshen up after your journey.
  • Have lunch at the resort's restaurant.

• Evening:

  • Take a leisurely stroll around the resort's premises.
  • Enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings.
  • Dinner at the resort.

Day 2: Kaziranga to Majuli

• Morning:

  • Early morning safari at Kaziranga National Park to spot rhinos, elephants, and other wildlife.(Govt run elephant safari tickets are subjected to availability and cannot be booked in advance).
  • Return to the resort for breakfast.

• Late Morning:

  • Check-out from the resort.
  • Depart for Nimati Ghat.

• Afternoon:

  • Board the ferry to Majuli, the world's largest river island.
  • Arrive in Majuli and check-in at your accommodation.
  • Enjoy a traditional Assamese lunch.

• Evening:

  • Explore the local village and interact with the friendly villagers.
  • Witness a cultural performance showcasing Assamese traditions.
  • Dinner featuring local cuisine.

Day 3: Full Day in Majuli

• Morning:

  • After breakfast, visit the Satras, unique Vaishnavite monasteries of Majuli.
  • Learn about the spiritual and cultural significance of these institutions.

• Late Morning:

  • Visit the Mask Making Village to witness the creation of traditional masks.
  • Participate in a mask-making workshop.

• Afternoon:

  • Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, savoring Assamese delicacies.
  • Visit the satras to see the lives of the monks.

• Evening:

  • Explore the tribal villages during sunset.
  • Return to your accommodation for dinner.

Day 4: Majuli to Kohima

• Morning:

  • Check-out from your accommodation in Majuli.
  • Proceed to Nimati Ghat by ferry.

• Late Morning:

  • Drive to Kisama via Kohima.

• Afternoon:

  • Check-in at your hotel in Kohima.

• Evening:

  • Rest and freshen up.
  • Enjoy a warm dinner at the hotel.

Day 5: Full Day at Hornbill Festival

• Morning:

  • Have an early breakfast.
  • Head to the Naga Heritage Village Kisama for the Hornbill Festival.
  • Immerse yourself in Naga culture, art, and traditions.

• Afternoon:

  • Savor traditional Naga dishes at the food stalls.
  • Witness various cultural performances and indigenous games.

• Evening:

  • Enjoy a festive atmosphere with the illuminated village.
  • Return to the hotel and relax.

Day 6: Full Day at Hornbill Festival

• Morning:

  • After breakfast, return to the Hornbill Festival.
  • Attend workshops showcasing Naga crafts, music, and dance.

• Afternoon:

  • Join in the traditional Naga dance and music performances.
  • Explore the marketplace for unique handicrafts and souvenirs.

• Evening:

  • Attend the cultural gala and musical performances.
  • Capture the vibrant atmosphere through photography.

Day 7: Khonoma & Dzuleke

• Morning:

  • Depart for the picturesque village of Khonoma, known for its conservation efforts.
  • Explore the village's lush terraced fields and learn about its eco-friendly practices.

• Late Morning:

  • Continue to Dzuleke, a community-based ecotourism destination.
  • Participate in local activities and interact with the villagers.

• Afternoon:

  • Enjoy a traditional Naga lunch with the villagers.
  • Embark on a guided trek to explore the surrounding landscapes.

• Evening:

  • Return to Kohima and rest at the hotel.
  • Reflect on the day's cultural experiences.

Day 8: Kohima - Dimapur

• Morning:

  • Check-out from your hotel in Kohima and drive to airport. You may take any flight at or after 2pm
  
  

  This detailed itinerary is designed to provide you with a comprehensive and enriching experience of the Northeastern region of India. It includes a mix of cultural immersion, wildlife exploration, traditional festivities, and interaction with local communities. Make sure to adapt the schedule according to any unforeseen circumstances and enjoy your journey through this unique and captivating part of India.

The Hornbill Festival: Celebrating Nagaland's Vibrant Culture and Diversity

The Hornbill Festival in Nagaland stands as a vibrant celebration of the region's cultural diversity. Learn about this annual event's significance, attractions, and the unique experiences it offers.

Significance of the Hornbill Festival

The Hornbill Festival, named after the revered hornbill bird, is a remarkable showcase of Nagaland's 16 major tribes. It promotes inter-tribal harmony and preserves Naga heritage, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry of the region.

Captivating Attractions

1. Cultural Extravaganza: Witness captivating cultural performances as tribes showcase their traditional dances and rituals, passing down ancient stories and beliefs to younger generations.

2. Indigenous Crafts: Explore intricate tribal handicrafts, textiles, and jewelry, reflecting the tribes' artistic prowess and creativity.

3. Culinary Delights: Indulge in Naga cuisine's distinctive flavors, from bamboo shoot dishes to smoked pork, gaining insights into the region's culinary traditions.

4. Traditional Games: Immerse yourself in traditional Naga games and sports, showcasing the tribes' community bonds and competitive spirit.

5. Naga Morungs: Interact with tribal members, learn about their daily lives, and engage in conversations within the recreated Naga tribal villages.

6. Folk Tales and Legends: Delve into captivating folk tales and legends, gaining insights into the Nagas' oral history and cultural beliefs.

Preserving Tradition in a Modern Era

Amidst modernization, the Hornbill Festival stands as a vital pillar in preserving and celebrating Nagaland's indigenous cultures, instilling pride in younger generations.

Explore the Hornbill Festival to witness Nagaland's vibrant heritage, cultural performances, indigenous crafts, and culinary delights. Join us in celebrating the rich traditions that define this captivating region.

Experience the Hornbill Festival's Splendor

Discover the Hornbill Festival's magic - a celebration that brings together Nagaland's tribes to showcase their vibrant heritage. Immerse yourself in cultural performances, explore indigenous crafts, savor Naga cuisine, and relive traditional games. Join us in cherishing Nagaland's diverse traditions!