Kohima: Nagaland is set to inaugurate the 26th edition of the Hornbill Festival on December 1, with six partner countries joining this year’s 10-day celebration, Tourism Minister Temjen Imna Along said on Sunday.
The opening coincides with Nagaland Statehood Day.
First held in 2000, the Hornbill Festival has grown into the state’s biggest cultural and tourism showcase, bringing together all Naga tribes at Kisama, about 12 km from Kohima on the NH-29.
Over the years, it has evolved into an international platform with multiple venues across the state.
Along said France, Ireland, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Malta and Austria will participate as country partners, while Arunachal Pradesh will join as the state partner. All 18 major Naga tribes will present cultural performances, crafts and traditions.
The Governor of Nagaland will formally host the festival alongside delegations from partner nations and the Arunachal Pradesh chief minister.
The minister said the 2025 edition places stronger emphasis on cultural collaboration and strengthening Nagaland’s global presence.
Festival extensions will also be held across the state, including Mon (Dec 8–10), Dimapur (Hornbill Carnival from Dec 6), Wokha (Doyang Festival), and Zünheboto.
Despite delays caused by heavy rain and damaged roads, preparations are complete, he said, crediting round-the-clock efforts by the tourism, power, PHED, police and district administration departments.
To ease foreign tourist entry, the government has relaxed Protected Area Permit (PAP) procedures.
While the permit remains mandatory, on-arrival counters at airports now process approvals in about 15 minutes, depending on connectivity.
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has twice written to the Union Home Minister seeking additional relaxations.
The eased rules apply to all foreign tourists except those from restricted countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh and China.
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Along said Nagaland continues to benefit from sustained global partnerships in education, culture and skill development, noting Japan’s engagement through JICA — including the newly inaugurated Kohima Eco Park and biodiversity projects.
On the economic front, he cited last year’s festival, which generated an estimated Rs. 189 crore from the largely unorganised sector, though he believes the actual figure is higher due to earnings by homestays, transporters, artists and local businesses.
Thousands of temporary jobs are created during the festival each year, he added.
The state aims to eventually keep the Hornbill venue open year-round to support sustainable tourism.
Along urged citizens and visitors to participate fully and showcase Nagaland’s unity, culture and hospitality.
Entry tickets to Kisama have been fixed at Rs. 150 per person, Tourism Director Viyelo Duolo said.
