The First-Ever Amur Falcon Conservation Week & Festivals in Wokha, Nagaland

They fly far and they fly strong--Amur falcons travel upto 22,000km per year from South Eastern Siberia and Northern China to Somalia, Kenya and South Africa, their final destinations. Every year, on the way, they roost in Nagaland and few other parts of northeast India (Umrongso in Assam and Tamenglong in Manipur). Doyang, in Pangti village of Wokha district, witnesses one of the biggest congregation of these migratory birds because of which now Nagaland is a declared 'Falcon Capital of the World'. The Amur Falcon Conservation Week & Festivals will be held from November 8 to 10 every year and this year (2018) is its first edition. This indeed is a big and happy news when it comes to Amur falcon conservation. Nagaland and these falcons have come a long way from the days of rampant hunting to Nagaland's present-day status as a safe haven to these winter visitors.

The main objective behind this initiative is not only to spread the word on the importance of wildlife conservation but also to highlight the fragile human-nature relationship and the need to understand it. The three-day event is a combination of wildlife conservation and many festivals that will highlight the rich culture, tradition and custom of the Lotha Nagas. The primary focus will be given on eco-tourism by promoting homestays, local guides, boating and workshops with experts in the field. In honour of wildlife conservation, there will be activities like screening of conservation-related movies, nature treks, cross country race, birdwatching, nature photography exhibition and painting competition. Keeping the multi-dimensional nature of the event in mind, there will be cultural activities too showcasing indigenous games of greased bamboo pole climbing, fire making, traditional dance and music and exhibitions of indigenous arts, crafts, handicrafts and handlooms.

The event will also have a three-day music festival water sports food festivals (indigenous recipe contest, open air ethnic cooking competition to name a few) outdoor activities like angling, camping, trekking, cycling adventure sports like off-roading, ziplining, mountain terrain biking competition. May Amur Falcon Conservation Week & Festivals be the reason you pack your bag for Nagaland.

Entry Permits For Foreigners
Though Protected Area Permit (PAP) is no longer needed, registering with the Foreigner's Registration Officer (FRO) is required.

Entry Permits For Indians
For Indians, it is necessary to obtain the Inner Line Permit issued by the Deputy Residential Commissioner, Nagaland House, New Delhi/Kolkata/Guwahati and Deputy Commissioner Dimapur/Kohima.

How To Get There
Nearest airport and railhead is Dimapur (Dimapur-Kohima-Wokha). There will be daily taxi and bus services to the festival venue.

Accommodation
Homestays, tourists' lodges, field huts, resorts, hotels and camps for more than 500 guests.