Nagaland’s biggest cultural celebration, the Hornbill Festival, is gearing up for one of its most globally spotlighted editions yet. The state government has confirmed the United Kingdom as the official Country Partner for the 2025 festival, bringing a renewed wave of cultural exchange, tourism opportunities, and international attention to the Naga Highlands. Set to take place from December 1 to 10, 2025 at Kisama, Kohima, this partnership signals a deeper ambition to position Hornbill as not just a national draw but a global cultural showcase.
The collaboration was formalised in New Delhi, where Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio and British Council India’s Country Director Alison Barrett MBE signed the agreement, witnessed by British High Commissioner Lindy Cameron. For both sides, the moment symbolised far more than diplomatic paperwork—it reflected a shared appreciation for arts, heritage, and people-to-people connections.
This isn't the first time the UK has engaged with the festival, but the 2025 partnership marks a strengthening of intentions. The British Council, working alongside the British Deputy High Commission in Kolkata, will curate immersive programming, including performances, workshops, and cultural showcases. This year, Scottish musician Ruairidh Maclean (RuMac) will perform on December 2, bringing the sounds of the Highlands to the hills of Nagaland.
For Nagaland, the UK partnership comes at a moment when the state is steadily emerging on the international travel map. Known for its tribal heritage, vibrant crafts, and dramatic landscapes, Nagaland has long charmed domestic visitors, but global awareness has remained limited. The Hornbill Festival, which is already a major driver of tourism, is now positioned to reach wider audiences across Europe and beyond.
Chief Minister Rio highlighted that the renewed partnership reflects shared values of cultural exchange, adding that such collaborations enrich the festival and strengthen global connections. High Commissioner Cameron described the ties as part of a “living bridge” between the UK and India, an ongoing flow of ideas, artists, and stories.
Further elevating the festival’s reach is another key announcement: Air India Express has been named the Official Travel Partner for Hornbill Festival 2025. In an event held at the airline’s Gurugram headquarters, Advisor to Chief Minister Abu Metha and Air India Express Managing Director Aloke Singh unveiled the partnership alongside senior officials.
To commemorate the festival, the airline introduced a special Tsüngkotepsü-themed livery, inspired by the Ao Naga tribe’s warrior shawl. The vibrant design appears on one of its newest Boeing 737-8 aircraft under the Tales of India initiative, which celebrates regional art across the country. The aircraft will make a ceremonial arrival in Dimapur on November 22, welcomed by Chief Minister Rio.
To make travel more accessible, the airline is offering a 15 percent discount on direct and one-stop flights to Dimapur for bookings made between November 20 and 30, valid for travel from November 20 to December 15.
The dual partnerships signal a new chapter for Nagaland’s tourism story—one that blends indigenous identity with global collaboration. With increased accessibility, creative programming, and international participation, Hornbill Festival 2025 stands poised to be one of its most significant editions yet.ac
As cultural tourism continues to rise worldwide, Nagaland’s flagship festival is becoming a model for how regional celebrations can build global bridges—one performance, one collaboration, and one visitor at a time.
1. When is the Hornbill Festival 2025 taking place?
The Hornbill Festival 2025 will be held from 1 to 10 December 2025 at Kisama Heritage Village in Kohima, Nagaland.
2. Which country is the official partner for Hornbill Festival 2025?
The United Kingdom (UK) has been named the official Country Partner for Hornbill Festival 2025.
3. Why is the UK partnering with Hornbill Festival?
The partnership aims to enhance cultural exchange, promote creative collaborations, and bring global visibility to Nagaland’s heritage.
4. What will Air India Express offer for the festival?
Air India Express, the Official Travel Partner, is offering a 15% discount on flights to Dimapur (Nov 20–30 booking window).
5. What special programming will the UK bring to the festival?
Expect British Council-curated performances, workshops, artists, and a concert by Scottish musician Ruairidh Maclean (RuMac).
6. Where is the Hornbill Festival held?
It is hosted at Kisama Heritage Village, located 12 km from Kohima, Nagaland.