Ziro Festival of Music

An Outdoor Music and Arts Gathering in the Apatani Valley

Against a canvas of verdant rice fields and pine-clad hills, the Ziro Festival of Music transforms the Apatani Valley every September into a vibrant, temporary hub for sound and community. Far from the typical urban festival settings, this event embraces its location, weaving together the unique atmosphere of the Arunachal Pradesh highlands with a diverse lineup of independent musicians from across India and beyond. It's a confluence of diverse musical styles, from rock and folk to electronic and world music, presented on stages constructed primarily from bamboo.

History & Context

The Ziro Festival of Music was founded in 2012 by Bobby Hano and Menwhopause guitarist Anup Kutty. Their vision was to create a platform for independent music set amidst the distinctive landscape and culture of Ziro, the valley traditionally inhabited by the Apatani people. The festival sought to not only offer a unique musical experience but also to promote tourism and responsible cultural exchange in the region. Over the years, it has steadily grown in reputation, drawing attendees and artists from various parts of the globe, solidifying its position as one of India's premier outdoor music gatherings.

What Makes It Distinctive

What truly sets this festival apart is its deeply integrated relationship with the local environment and the Apatani culture. Unlike many commercial festivals, the Ziro Festival of Music encourages ethical and sustainable practices, often incorporating local materials like bamboo into its infrastructure. The festival’s location within the Apatani Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site tentative list nominee known for its unique agricultural practices and a close-knit community, provides an unparalleled backdrop. Visitors often have the opportunity to engage with the Apatani way of life, from observing their traditional bamboo and wood houses to understanding their sustainable wet rice cultivation methods. The festival also actively collaborates with local communities for various services, contributing to local livelihoods. The blend of international and national independent music acts with the serene, almost untouched landscape creates a distinct vibe that prioritises discovery and community over commercial glamor.

Best Time to Visit

The Ziro Festival of Music typically takes place in late September. This period marks the transition from monsoon to autumn in Arunachal Pradesh. While the preceding months might bring heavy rainfall, late September generally offers clearer skies and pleasant daytime temperatures, ranging from 15°C to 25°C. Nights can be cool, dropping to 10°C or lower. The valley is lush green from the monsoon rains, offering spectacular views. It is advisable to prepare for occasional light showers, as mountain weather can be unpredictable.

How to Reach

The Ziro Festival is held in the Apatani Valley, near the town of Ziro. The most common entry points are through Assam:

By Air: The nearest airport is Lilabari Airport (IXI) in Assam, approximately 100 km / ~3-4 hours by road from Ziro. Alternatively, Guwahati's Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (GAU) is a major hub, approximately 450 km / ~10-12 hours by road from Ziro. From Guwahati, shared taxis or buses are available to North Lakhimpur, from where further connections to Ziro can be made.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Naharlagun (NHLN), approximately 100 km / ~3-4 hours by road from Ziro, with direct trains from Delhi and Guwahati. Another option is North Lakhimpur (NLP) in Assam, approximately 115 km / ~4-5 hours by road from Ziro, also well-connected to Guwahati. From both stations, private taxis and shared sumos are available for the onward journey to Ziro.
By Road: Ziro is accessible by road from various towns in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh. From Guwahati, a common route is via Tezpur and North Lakhimpur. The journey from Itanagar, the capital of Arunachal Pradesh, is about 110 km / ~3-4 hours, though road conditions can vary.

Permits & Entry

For Indian citizens: An Inner Line Permit (ILP) is mandatory for entry into Arunachal Pradesh. This can be obtained online from the official government portal (arunachalilp.com) or in person from resident commissioner offices in major cities like New Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, or Tezpur. Applications should be made well in advance of travel.
For foreign nationals: A Protected Area Permit (PAP) is required. This permit can be obtained through registered tour operators or from the Commissioner (Home), Government of Arunachal Pradesh, New Delhi, Kolkata, Tezpur, or Guwahati. It is essential to apply for a PAP in advance and typically requires a minimum of two persons travelling together.

Nearby Attractions

Tarin Fish Farm (Hong Village): Witness the unique Apatani practice of pisciculture coexisting with paddy cultivation.
Meghna Cave Temple: An ancient cave temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located about 30 km from Ziro, offering panoramic views.
Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to clouded leopards and various flora and fauna, ideal for nature enthusiasts and trekkers, requiring special permits.
Hapoli Town: The main administrative and commercial center of Lower Subansiri district, offering local markets and basic amenities.
Dolo Mando: A hilltop offering a scenic view of the Apatani plateau and its surrounding villages.

Traveller Tips

Connectivity: Mobile network coverage can be sporadic, especially outside Hapoli. BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited) generally offers the best connectivity, but expect limited data speeds. Consider carrying an offline map.
ATMs: ATMs are available in Hapoli, but it's wise to carry sufficient cash, especially for purchases at the festival or in remote areas.
Accommodation: Book accommodation well in advance. Options range from homestays (often the most authentic experience) to guesthouses and temporary camps during the festival.
Weather Preparedness: Pack layers of clothing, including warm wear for evenings, and rain gear. Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes are essential.
Ethical Interaction: Be respectful of local customs and traditions, particularly when visiting villages. Always ask for permission before taking photographs of people.
Waste Management: The festival encourages responsible waste disposal. Carry a reusable water bottle and minimise plastic usage.
Transportation within Ziro: Local taxis and shared sumos are the primary modes of transport between Hapoli and the festival grounds, as well as to nearby villages.
Altitude: Ziro is at an elevation of approximately 1,600 meters (5,500 ft). While not extremely high, those sensitive to altitude should take it easy on the first day.

Living Roots Expert Notes

We consciously schedule our Arunachal Pradesh expeditions to coincide with the Ziro Festival of Music when our guests express interest in a deeper dive into contemporary culture alongside traditional experiences. Our guests are consistently surprised by the genuine warmth of the Apatani people and the festival's intimate scale, despite its growing popularity. Unlike larger, more commercial festivals, Ziro retains a distinct, community-driven feel that encourages interaction over mere spectatorship. We advise bringing robust power banks and being prepared for 'digital detoxes' as phone charging points and reliable internet are scarce. The local Apatani homestays offer an unparalleled opportunity to learn about their ingenious agricultural system and interact directly with families, which is invaluable. We highly recommend exploring beyond the main festival grounds into some of the surrounding Apatani villages like Hong and Hari. This offers a calmer perspective on daily life and highlights the stark yet harmonious contrast between the traditional lifestyle and the temporary influx of modern music culture.

Frequently asked

When does the Ziro Festival of Music usually take place?

The festival is typically held in late September each year. It's advisable to check the official festival website for exact dates as they can vary slightly.

Do I need a special permit to visit Ziro for the festival?

Yes, Indian citizens require an Inner Line Permit (ILP) and foreign nationals need a Protected Area Permit (PAP) to enter Arunachal Pradesh. These must be obtained in advance.

What kind of music can I expect at the festival?

The festival primarily showcases independent music across various genres, including rock, folk, electronic, and world music, featuring artists from India and international acts.

What are the accommodation options during the festival?

Accommodation ranges from local homestays which offer an authentic experience, to guesthouses and temporary camping facilities set up specifically for the festival period. Booking well in advance is recommended.

How cold does it get during the festival?

While daytime temperatures are pleasant (15-25°C), nights can be cool, dropping to 10°C or lower. It's essential to pack warm clothing and rain gear.

Is food available at the festival?

Yes, the festival grounds usually have numerous food stalls offering a variety of local Arunachali cuisine, Indian dishes, and some international options, catering to different tastes.

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