the hornbill festival

We really pride ourselves on our ability to seek out extraordinary travel experiences, and now, as an affiliate of Uniglobe Travel Center, a Virtuoso Agency, we’ve opened up new relationships with a broader network of exciting travel partners including the luxury tour operator, Peirce & Leslie Travel Pvt Limited - India. Peirce & Leslie has premium access to the fantastic Hornbill Festival in India, and when we saw this trip, we couldn’t resist sharing it with you.

The Hornbill Festival in the northeast Indian state of Nagaland provides the perfect opportunity for a truly immersive experience in an enchanting land — a little-known part of India often neglected by tourists. Named after the Great Indian Hornbill, this annual extravaganza is celebrated by the 16 tribes of the state.

At the Festival, you can revel in the glorious cultures of indigenous warrior tribes, displayed through folk dances (complete with elaborate costumes, striking jewelry, and colorful headgear), musical performances, and traditional games. You’ll spend time with the tribespeople in morungs (youth dormitories) and gain an insight into their unique culture and habits. Listen ardently as an old tribal warrior narrates fascinating legends of his former headhunting days. Take a swig of freshly brewed rice beer and sample the delectable local cuisine. And, history buffs can visit the World War II Museum that houses relics from the 1944 battle of Kohima, which first put Nagaland on the global map.

Clearly, this is a trip for travelers, not tourists.

Even though this festival isn’t until December 2021, time is of the essence - the seats to the event are filling fast and are almost sold out! If you’d like to have an authentic immersion into the culture and traditions of Northern India, we’d love to share this experience with you!