Experience The Melodies Of Ziro Music Festival

A picture of people enjoying at a music festival during nighttime

Ziro Music Festival, which takes place in the centre of Arunachal Pradesh’s beautiful Ziro Valley, has grown to be among the most well-known cultural and musical gatherings in India. Amidst the most amazing views available, this unusual festival presents all kinds of music. Together, these provide an amazing experience: the force of music combined with the magnificent beauty of nature. This varied combination of older and more contemporary sounds helped to explain the general popularity of the festival, which draws music lovers from all around the state and beyond.

Location

A picture of the beautiful Ziro Valley with green farms and trees on a sunny day

Photo: Arunachal2007 / Wikimedia Commons

Located in the Lower Subansiri district of the Ziro Valley in the northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh in India, is where the Ziro Music Festival is organised this venue is one of the best places to visit in Ziro. Ziro Valley, said to be the land of rich green rice fields, undulating hills, and the traditional Apatani people, presents this musical spectacular amid amazing settings. The valley’s natural beauty and kind hospitality make the festival’s ambience ideal for the audience to explore the musical spectacular alongside the core of nature.

Suggested Read: Discover The Vibrant Harvest Festival Of Arunachal Pradesh On Your Next Journey

How To Reach Ziro

A picture of beautiful valley that hosts Ziro Music Festival every year

Photo: Arunachal2007 / Wikimedia Commons

Different routes which one can take to reach the Arunachal Pradesh Music Festival are as follows:

By Air: The nearest airport is Lilabari Airport, located in North Lakhimpur, Assam, which is at a distance of about 100 kilometres from Ziro. Visitors may hire a taxi from there or board a shared vehicle and head towards Ziro.

By Road: Ziro is well connected with the major cities of Arunachal Pradesh and the neighbouring states. Regular bus services and shared taxis are available from the state capital, Itanagar, to Ziro. The journey is pictorial, with the scenery and landscapes of the region.

By Rail: The closest railway station is North Lakhimpur in Assam, which is 117 km away from Ziro. One can hire a taxi or take a bus from the railway station to reach their destination.

Places Explore Around Ziro In Arunachal Pradesh

Here are the places in Arunachal Pradesh celebrating the Ziro Music Festival:

1. Itanagar

 A picture of a street in the capital of Arunachal Pradesh which also enjoys Ziro music festival

Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons

Itanagar, being the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, gives the Ziro Music Festival an upper hand in its celebrations. At times, it hosts pre-festival events, exhibitions, and demonstrations of local talent in the form of local culture and a hint of the main festival. It allows one to go around Itanagar’s cultural landmarks while enjoying performances by emerging artists. The urban energy of the city, coupled with its rich cultural legacy, offers a distinctive setting for soaking up the spirit of the festival which makes these venuse one of the best places to visit in Itanagar. Itanagar’s participation takes the festival to the farthest reaches of the state, making this essentially a statewide festival of music and culture.

Timings: Events normally take place in the weeks prior to the main festival.

Suggested Read: Things To Do In Itanagar On Your Next Vacation To Arunachal Pradesh

2. Daporijo

A picture of a picnic spot where people are enjoying by the river surrounded by hills

Photo: Medhi Jyoti / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Part of the Upper Subansiri district, Daporijo is another venue that plays host to satellite events under the Ziro Music Festival umbrella, celebrating traditional music and dance forms. This enables the visitor to get a deeper view of the moored traditions of Arunachal Pradesh. Set amidst undulating hills and river valleys, the celebration at Daporijo showcases the indigenous traditions of this area. These range from authentic cultural performances to participating in workshops and learning about the multifaceted tribal cultures that make up Arunachal Pradesh.

Timings: Coincides with the main festival dates

3. Pasighat

A picture of a town in Arunachal where the Ziro music festival is enjoyed every year

Photo: Bhavikji / Wikimedia Commons

Known as the oldest town in Arunachal Pradesh, Pasighat brings its historical charm to the Ziro Music Festival celebrations. The town occasionally hosts events that highlight the musical traditions of the Adi tribe and other indigenous communities. Situated along the banks of the mighty Siang River, Pasighat offers a picturesque setting for cultural performances and exhibitions. These events provide a platform for local artists to showcase their talents and offer visitors a chance to experience the rich musical heritage of eastern Arunachal Pradesh.

Timings: Events may be held around the same time as the main festival

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Pasighat

4. Along

A picture of a village with green lands, trees and a scenery

Photo: Abhijit597 / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Along, the headquarters of the West Siang district joins the Ziro Music Festival celebrations with its own unique flavour. The town organises cultural events and music performances that complement the main festival, focusing on the traditions of the Adi and Galo tribes. Along’s beautiful surroundings, including the Siyon River and nearby hills, provide a stunning backdrop for these events. Visitors can enjoy local folk music, participate in traditional dance workshops, and sample indigenous cuisine, all while experiencing the warm hospitality of the local communities.

Timings: Events typically coincide with the main festival period

5. Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

Elephants moving through dense forest at Muthanga Wildlife Sanctuary.

Photo: Dumphasizer / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary, located just 30 km from Ziro, is a paradise for nature enthusiasts. The sanctuary is home to endangered species like clouded leopards and diverse flora, including orchids and bamboo. Dense forests, trekking trails, and birdwatching opportunities make it one of the most exciting Things To Do In Arunachal Pradesh. With its untouched beauty, Talley Valley offers an adventurous escape for eco-tourists and wildlife lovers visiting Ziro Valley.

Timings: 6 AM – 5 PM

Suggested Read: Wildlife Sanctuaries In Arunachal Pradesh For Every Wildlife Enthusiast

6. Hapoli, New Ziro

Scenic view of Gandhigram (Shidi) village nestled in Arunachal Pradesh’s Changlang hills.

Photo: Rohit Naniwadekar / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Hapoli, also called New Ziro, is the commercial hub of Ziro Valley. It is well known for its vibrant markets, showcasing Apatani handicrafts, handlooms, and traditional food. Travelers can explore local shops, taste authentic Arunachali cuisine, and interact with the Apatani tribe, famous for their unique culture and lifestyle. Hapoli also offers a range of stay options, making it a convenient base for exploring Ziro’s attractions and enjoying the local festivals, especially the Ziro Music Festival.

Timings: 9 AM – 7 PM

7. Meghna Cave Temple

Ornately carved Chalukya pillars inside Saraswati shrine at Gadag’s Trikuteshwara Temple.

Photo: Dineshkannambadi / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Meghna Cave Temple, located near Daporijo, is an ancient Shiva temple perched on a hill 300 feet above sea level. Surrounded by picturesque mountains and rivers, it offers both spiritual peace and panoramic views of Arunachal Pradesh’s pristine landscapes. Pilgrims and tourists alike are drawn to its historical significance and natural beauty. Visiting Meghna Cave Temple combines cultural heritage with adventure, making it a memorable stop for travelers exploring nearby regions of Ziro and Daporijo.

Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM

Suggested Read: Monasteries In Arunachal Pradesh

Where To Stay

A picture from the garden area of a resort with chairs and umbrellas

Photo: Pixabay / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Accommodation options in Ziro cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. For those seeking luxury, the Ziro Valley Resort stands out with its comfortable rooms and modern amenities, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Travellers looking for mid-range options can consider Siiro Resort and Ziro Hidden Resort, which provide decent facilities at reasonable prices.

Where To Eat

picture of a famous Naga dish served at a restaurant near Ziro Music Festival

Photo: Dina Said / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The culinary scene at the Ziro Music Festival is as diverse and exciting as its musical offerings. The festival grounds come alive with numerous food stalls, presenting a wide array of local and international cuisines to satisfy various palates. For those venturing into Ziro town, small restaurants and cafes serve up traditional Apatani dishes, giving visitors a taste of the local flavours.

Suggested Read: Arunachal Pradesh Picnic Places

Best Time To Visit Ziro

 A picture of a town clicked from a street showing trees and houses

Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wikimedia Commons

The Ziro Music Festival typically takes place in late September, coinciding with the pleasant post-monsoon weather. This period offers comfortable temperatures and clear skies, ideal for outdoor performances and exploring the valley.

Other Factors To Consider

A picture of the landscape of the town where the Ziro Music Festival takes place

Photo: Ganesh Mohan T / Wkimedia Commons

Average Cost Of The Trip

A budget traveller can expect to spend around ₹2,000-3,000 per day, including accommodation, food, and local transport. Mid-range travellers might spend ₹4,000-6,000 daily, while luxury travellers could spend ₹8,000 or more. Festival tickets are an additional cost, with prices varying based on the type of pass.

Tips For Travelers

  • Book accommodation and festival tickets well in advance.
  • Carry warm clothing, as evenings can be cooler.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when interacting with the Apatani community.
  • Carry sufficient cash as ATMs may be limited.
  • Be prepared for basic amenities, especially if camping at the festival site.
  • Try local dishes to experience the authentic flavours of Arunachal Pradesh.

Suggested Read: Top Valleys In Arunachal Pradesh

The Ziro Music Festival is a captivating fusion of music, culture, and natural splendour, offering an unforgettable experience for music enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This immersive event showcases Arunachal Pradesh’s rich heritage and stunning landscapes, from mesmerising melodies to warm local hospitality. Plan your Ziro Music Festival adventure with TripXL today and embark on a journey that will resonate in your heart long after the last note fades.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Cover Photo: Wendy Wei / Pexels / Image For Representation Only

Frequently Asked Questions

The festival showcases a diverse range of music genres, including indie, folk, rock, electronic, and traditional tribal music from the Northeast.
The festival is generally open to all ages, but some areas or performances may have age restrictions. It's best to check the official festival guidelines.
Yes, many visitors take time to explore the beautiful Ziro Valley, its rice fields, and nearby attractions when not attending performances.
Essential items include comfortable clothing, rain gear, warm layers for evenings, comfortable shoes, a reusable water bottle, and any camping equipment if you plan to camp
Yes, the festival often includes cultural workshops, traditional dance performances, and opportunities to interact with local Apatani people, providing insights into their unique culture and traditions.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Tickets for Ziro Music Festival can be booked online through the official website. Early bird passes and student discounts are often available for music enthusiasts.
The Ziro Music Festival is usually held in late September every year, celebrating indie music amidst the scenic beauty of Arunachal Pradesh’s Ziro Valley.
The Ziro Music Festival is celebrated to promote indie music, showcase Arunachal Pradesh’s tribal culture, and attract global travelers to the scenic Ziro Valley.
Harshit Bhatia

Harshit Bhatia

Passionate about music and songwriting, Harshit Bhatia is a writer who found his muse in the mountains. Having travelled across the hills of Uttarakhand, Himachal, and Kashmir, he transforms the landscapes into compelling blogs and personifies their allure. When away from his job, you can find Harshit tuning into some hip-hop or working on an about-to-be hit melody.

Harshit’s Top Travel Highlights
For Harshit, travelling has two extremes. Either a cosy staycation in a quiet hillside village, or a rigorous trek where you don’t have time to breathe properly. There’s no in between.

First Snowfall Experience
Went on an abrupt Shimla trip with friends in February 2022, and none of them checked the weather forecast. Outcome? They were hit by a beautiful yet scary snowstorm an hour before reaching Shimla. They never reached Shimla. Failed twice in two days. Instead, went on to explore the town of Solan.

Recommended Articles

Leave a Reply

Top Travel Destinations by Month