Northeast India is a treasure trove of practice and tradition deeply imbibed in the very tales living diverse indigenous lives of the region. Witnessing grand festivals of this unique heritage is one of the best ways to explore it. As a traveler, interested in a rich cultural experience or a festival lover, visiting Northeast India during these imminent festivities will gift you with the ones you won’t forget.

If you’re planning a trip, you can etch your relationship with the region’s traditions even deeper by having an experience of these festivals, but first. Every event including the Wangala Festival in Meghalaya and the Ziro Festival in Arunachal Pradesh have something unique to offer. For the best of your journey, you may also like to go through Northeast Tour which will take you through the beauty and festivals of the region.

Here are the Top 6 Festivals of Northeast India You Should Experience

1. Hornbill Festival, Nagaland

The Hornbill Festival is Nagaland’s most famous cultural event held every December at Kisama Heritage Village. It is known as ‘Festival of Festivals’ and brings together all the major Naga tribes to present their customs through dance, music and traditional crafts. Indigenous sports such as wrestling, archery and Naga chili eating competitions are on show for visitors. There are also craft exhibitions, folk performances and a busy night bazaar with local delicacies. The Hornbill Festival is a cultural and contemporary event with a blend of Nagaland’s heritage.

2. Bihu Festival, Assam

Bihu is Assam’s biggest festival celebrated three times in a year, namely, Bohag Bihu (New Year), Magh Bihu (harvest) and Kati Bihu (pre harvest). The most vibrant of all is Bohag Bihu in April, with dance, traditional songs and feasting. The Bihu dance is lively and people dress in colorful attire, enjoy festive treats such as pitha and laru. It is a representation of new beginnings, unity and gratitude towards nature’s gifts. The infectious energy of Bihu unites people in grand celebrations irrespective of being in urban centers or rural villages.

3. Ziro Festival of Music, Arunachal Pradesh

Ziro Festival of Music is an unmissable event for the music lovers which is held in the picturesque Ziro Valley. This eco friendly festival spread over four days has independent artists and bands from India and all over the world. With turf on a scatter as a backdrop, it makes for a surreal open air concert. The festival has a bamboo structure and organic food stalls on top of that and they also promote sustainable tourism. They make this festival so magical as it’s camping under the starry sky to enjoy live music performances.

4. Wangala Festival, Meghalaya

It is the grand harvest celebration of the Garo tribe in Meghalaya, known as the ‘Festival of a Hundred Drums’ the Wangala Festival. It is dedicated to the Sun God and is the end of the agricultural season with traditional drum performances, folk dances and rituals. Dressed in traditional attire, men and women dance in rhythmic movements to the beat of long drums. The festival showcases the deep connection between the Garos and nature, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into their customs. It is a must experience event with lively atmosphere, music and cultural displays.

5. Losar Festival, Sikkim & Arunachal Pradesh

The Tibetan New Year, Losar, is one of the most important festivals for the Buddhist communities in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh. Prayer ceremonies, offerings and the famous masked Cham dance are celebrated with grandeur. The monasteries are beautifully decorated, people are performing cultural performances, feasts, rituals to welcome a prosperous year. The festival has a spiritual touch and is a joyous celebration, making it a fascinating experience for the visitors. Combining serene Buddhist traditions with vibrant festivities, the Himalayan culture is seen at its best with a peaceful yet exciting way to witness.

6. Dree Festival, Arunachal Pradesh

The Dree Festival is a celebrated agricultural festival of the Apatani tribe in Arunachal Pradesh. It is a ritual of praying for a bountiful harvest, and it has rituals, folk dances and traditional sports. In addition to the community feasts, the festival also has locals preparing and sharing the traditional Apatani dishes. The event allows visitors to see preparations of rice beer and indigenous songs performed during the event. This festival is a unique cultural experience in Northeast India because the Apatani people have a deep spiritual connection with nature.

Conclusion

These festivals are one of the best ways to get into the heart of Northeast India’s traditions. There are centuries old customs that define the cultural essence of the region in each festival. These events are electrifying beats of the Wangala Festival to tranquil rituals of Losar, which are unforgettable moments for travelers.

If you need to visit them yourself, we suggest our Northeast Tour Package. Special care has gone into these specially curated trips and it is on these trips that you will experience the best of Northeast India’s culture, landscape and warm hospitality.