7 standout Festivals of Northeast India that you simply shouldn’t miss in September to December

Northeast India is a treasure trove of vibrant cultures and breathtaking landscapes, and its festivals are the perfect window into this richness. Here are seven standout celebrations that you simply shouldn’t miss:

Ziro Festival (Arunachal Pradesh)
- Held in September in Ziro Valley
- A 4-day outdoor music and cultural event hosted by the Apatani tribe
- Features over 30 indie, folk, and electronic bands
- Eco-friendly setup with bamboo stages and zero plastic
- Local treats: bamboo shoot dishes, smoked meats, and rice beer

Hornbill Festival (Nagaland)
- Celebrated December 1–10 in Kisama near Kohima
- Brings together all 16 Naga tribes
- Includes traditional dances, crafts, fashion shows, and rock concerts
- Famous for smoked pork, bamboo shoot curry, and millet beer

Sangai Festival (Manipur)
- Held in November, named after the endangered Sangai deer
- Showcases Manipuri arts, martial arts, and cuisine
- Key venues: Imphal and Loktak Lake
- Highlights include boating, cultural performances, and local dishes like Eromba and Chak-hao kheer

Cherry Blossom Festival (Meghalaya)
- Takes place in November in Shillong
- Celebrates the blooming of cherry blossoms with music, art, and food
- Features K-pop, indie bands, and international DJs
- Try Khasi dishes like Jadoh and Tungrymbai

Majuli Music Festival (Assam)
- Held in December on Majuli, the world’s largest river island
- Combines folk, fusion, and classical music
- Includes workshops on mask-making, pottery, and weaving
- Enjoy Assamese cuisine like pita and fish delicacies

Pawl Kut (Mizoram)
- A post-harvest thanksgiving festival in December–January
- Features Cheraw (bamboo dance), folk songs, and tribal attire
- Local delicacies include rice cakes, rice beer, and bamboo shoot dishes

Lasoong (Sikkim)
- Celebrated in December as the Sikkimese New Year
- Observed by Bhutia and Lepcha communities
- Highlights include Cham masked dances at monasteries
- Dishes to try: Gundruk, See roti, and traditional meat and rice meals

Each festival is a unique blend of tradition, nature, and community spirit. If you're planning a cultural tour, aim for September to December when most of these festivals light up the region.