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The Ziro Festival of Music is one of India's most famous outdoor music festivals, founded in 2012 by Bobby Hano and Anup Kutty. It celebrates a wide variety of music, featuring artists from both India and abroad. The festival is held in Ziro, a small town in Arunachal Pradesh, known for its picturesque landscapes and home to the Apatani tribe. Ziro's beauty and cultural richness have made it a proposed UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Where is Ziro?
Ziro is located in the Lower Subansiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, nestled on a plateau surrounded by pine-covered hills. The region is famous for its unique wet rice cultivation and mild climate. The town is home to the Apatani tribe, known for their rich cultural traditions, which add to the charm of the Ziro Festival. Visitors often marvel at Ziro's natural beauty, making it a perfect destination for this renowned music festival.
How to Reach Ziro
Getting to Ziro can be a bit of an adventure, but there are several ways to travel:
- By Air: The closest airport is the Holongi/Itanagar airport, approximately 100 kilometers from Ziro. While Lilabari and Dibrugarh airports are alternatives, they have limited services. Guwahati airport is about nine hours away. Foreigners need a Protected Area Permit (PAP), and Indian citizens require an Inner Line Permit (ILP).
- By Train: The Donyi Polo Express offers an overnight journey from Guwahati to Naharlagun, the nearest railway station. From Naharlagun, Ziro is a three-hour drive by shared taxi.
- By Road: Ziro is accessible by road, and the journey from Naharlagun is about three hours. Roads from Holongi airport and Lilabari airport take roughly four and 3.5 hours, respectively. However, during the rainy season, landslides can cause some travel delays, so it's essential to plan accordingly.
Key Highlights of Ziro Festival 2024
This year's festival will take place from September 26 to 29, 2024. Set in the breathtaking Ziro Valley, the event will showcase the rich cultural diversity of the Northeast. The festival focuses on sustainability, using eco-friendly materials like bamboo and involving the local community.
Accommodation and Tickets
Festival attendees can choose between camping at the site, staying in homestays, or booking hotels around Ziro Valley. It is recommended to book in advance due to high demand. Tickets for the event can be purchased online or, in limited quantities, on-site.
The Ziro Festival of Music offers a unique blend of culture, nature, and music, making it a must-visit event for both locals and international travelers.
