10 FAQS on Naga Heritage Village, Kisama (venue for the Hornbill Festival)
The Naga Heritage Village, Kisama is a cultural complex located near the state capital Kohima in Nagaland, India. It serves as the primary venue for the annual Hornbill Festival, which showcases the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the Naga people. The village is purpose-built to resemble a traditional Naga settlement and acts as a living museum exhibiting the heritage of the various Naga tribes.
Tourists visiting the Naga Heritage Village can expect to see traditional Naga morungs (youth dormitories), tribal houses, ceremonial gates, and a central arena where cultural performances and ceremonies take place. Arts and crafts exhibitions, food stalls featuring indigenous cuisines, and demonstrations of Naga sports and games are also prominent attractions.
The best time to visit the Naga Heritage Village is during the Hornbill Festival, which takes place from the 1st to the 10th of December each year. This is when the village comes to life with a flurry of activities, cultural events, and an influx of tourists. The weather during this period is also pleasant, as it is winter in Nagaland.
The Hornbill Festival is a prominent cultural extravaganza held in Nagaland annually, named after the revered hornbill bird. The festival is a celebration of the diverse culture and heritage of Naga tribes. It includes traditional dances, music, handicrafts, sports, food fairs, games, and ceremonies, and is aimed at promoting inter-tribal interaction and cultural preservation.
Tourists can reach the Naga Heritage Village, Kisama by road. It is located approximately 12 kilometers from Kohima, the capital city of Nagaland. Taxis and buses are available from Kohima to Kisama. The nearest airport is the Dimapur Airport, and the nearest railway station is also in Dimapur, from where tourists can hire vehicles to reach Kisama.
Yes, there is usually an entry fee for visitors to the Naga Heritage Village, especially during the Hornbill Festival when special tickets are sold that grant access to the various events and performances. It is advisable to check the latest fee structure and ticket availability in advance.
During the Hornbill Festival, the Naga Heritage Village offers traditional Naga huts and tents for tourists to stay in, providing an authentic cultural experience. In addition, there are several hotels and guesthouses in nearby Kohima that offer a range of accommodation options. It is recommended to book accommodation well in advance due to high demand during the festival season.
Yes, tourists are encouraged to participate in various interactive activities at the festival such as traditional games, workshops, and dance performances. It is an opportunity for visitors to engage with the local Naga culture and learn more about tribal traditions.
Tourists should be respectful of the local traditions and customs. One should avoid wearing revealing clothing, ask for permission before taking photographs of people or private property, and it is courteous to remove shoes before entering certain areas. Observing and enquiring about local customs from guides or hosts is appreciated.
Yes, visitors can buy a variety of Naga handicrafts at the Heritage Village. There are numerous stalls and shops that sell traditional Naga artwork, jewelry, textiles, and souvenirs. The purchases help support local artisans and the preservation of their craft.
