Beyond Hornbill
Nagaland
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3rd-12th December 2025 / 10 Days
Nagaland is known for its pristine beauty, rich culture, and serene landscapes. It offers a unique experience for nature lovers, with forests, hills and a cultural experience unlike any other. Combined with the famed Hornbill festival, this trip is diverse like no other.
At A Glance
ITINERARY
Day 01
Arrive at Dimapur airport, the gateway to Nagaland. Set out on a scenic drive to Kohima, the state capital. The drive through winding roads offers serene views of the Naga hills, quaint villages, and lush landscapes. Upon arrival in Kohima, check-in at your hotel or guesthouse. You can spend the evening relaxing or walking around the nearby area if you are not too tired.
Day 02
After breakfast, drive to the Puliebadze Wildlife Sanctuary, located on the outskirts of Kohima. From here, embark on a short day hike to the Puliebadze Peak. The trek is fairly moderate, taking you through thick forests, bamboo groves, and offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and Kohima town below. At the summit, you'll be rewarded with a view of the entire Kohima town, surrounding valleys, and distant mountains. After the hike, return to Kohima for the evening.
Day 03
The Hornbill festival, held at Kisama Heritage Village outside Kohima, is one of the biggest cultural festivals in Nagaland, showcasing traditional Naga culture, dance, music, and art. Spend the entire day at the festival, which typically features tribal dances, folk music, craft exhibitions, tribal games, and local food stalls. The festival is a vibrant celebration of Naga heritage, and you’ll have a chance to witness colourful performances, shop for unique crafts, and interact with locals. You'll spend the entire day immersed in the rich cultural performances, traditional food, and crafts of various Naga tribes.
Day 04
Today, the adventure begins! After an early breakfast, you’ll set off for the Dzukou Valley. The trail begins with a steep ascent through dense oak forests, bamboo groves, and rhododendron flowers. The forest is alive with bird calls and the sound of rustling leaves. The terrain can be challenging, with some rocky sections, but the gradual climb will reward you with stunning views of the surrounding valleys. It will take about 5 to 6 hours to reach Dzukou Valley. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted with expansive meadows, streams, and panoramic views of the valley. After setting up your camp or settling into the guesthouse (if available), take some time to explore the surroundings, photograph the stunning scenery, or unwind by the streams. The beauty of Dzukou Valley is primitive and pristine, soaked in a tranquil environment.
Day 05
After breakfast in the valley, spend the morning hiking to one of the best viewpoints. From this elevated spot, you’ll be able to take in panoramic views of the entire Dzukou Valley, its meadows, rivers, and the distant hills. Take some time to explore the valley’s meadows, waterfalls, and caves. The morning is a perfect time for some photography, nature walks, or simply sitting by the streams. Afterward, begin your descent back to Zakhama Village. The return trek is a bit easier as it's mostly downhill, but still requires attention due to rocky terrain.
Day 06
Today, you’ll drive back to Kohima. On arrival, check into your accommodation, unwind, and spend the rest of the day exploring Kohima’s local markets, which are bustling with local crafts, textiles, and fresh produce.
Day 07
The Hornbill festival, held in Kohima, is one of the biggest cultural festivals in Nagaland, showcasing traditional Naga culture, dance, music, and art. Spend the entire day at the festival, which typically features tribal dances, folk music, craft exhibitions, tribal games, and local food stalls. The festival is a vibrant celebration of Naga heritage, and you’ll have a chance to witness colourful performances, shop for unique crafts, and interact with locals.
Day 08
Head back to the Hornbill festival for more exploration. Each day brings new performances, crafts, and traditional events, and the festival atmosphere is vibrant throughout. You can immerse yourself in more cultural displays, try local dishes, and shop for handmade goods. Even if you’re not actively participating in the festival, there are plenty of chances to explore and interact, offering you a deeper understanding of Nagaland's diversity.
Day 09
Begin the drive back to Dimpur, where you get a chance to interact with Naga heritage one last time.
Day 10
Fly Back (Breakfast and airport drop.)
What Our Adventurers Say
Read testimonials from fellow explorers who’ve journeyed with Snowfox Escapes and discovered more than just landscapes.
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