Remember seeing Apatani women with huge nose piercings and facial tattoos?
Welcome to ZIRO VALLEY and the lives of the Apatani tribe.
Ziro Valley, the scenic state of Arunachal Pradesh, is the home of the Ziro Music Festival. This annual event has become a haven for music lovers from all over the world and for good reason. With a lineup of local and international artists, it’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The Ziro Valley, situated in the Lower Subasiri district of Arunachal Pradesh, is a picturesque haven known for its vibrant greenery. This enchanting valley is home to the renowned Ziro Music Festival, a globally acclaimed event that takes place annually.
Ziro is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a cultural experience like no other. It is located at a distance of approximately 420 km from Guwahati. The festival is held for four days at the heart of Ziro Valley, 5500 feet above sea level, offering breathtaking views and the kind of memories that last a lifetime. In 2012, Bobby Hano and Anup Kutty, guitarist of Menwhopause, came up with the concept. The festival takes place in the breathtaking Ziro Valley, situated 5500 feet above sea level, and lasts for four days.
This year you can look forward to performances by Lee Ranaldo, Louw Majaw, Steve Shelley, Shaair n Func, Indus Creed, Peter Cat Recording Co, Menwhopause, Guru Reuben Mashangva, and Barmer Boys.
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How To Reach
By Road: To access the Zero Music Festival by road, one can hire a taxi from Guwahati, which is approximately 470 km away and takes around 7 hours to reach via NH27 and NH15. Alternatively, government buses are available from Itanagar to Ziro at a reasonable price, and driving to the destination is also an option.
By Air: While Likabali and Tezpur are the nearest airports, Guwahati Airport is the more dependable choice due to its wider range of flight options.
By Rail: The nearest railway station is Naharlagun.
What Ziro offers?
Ziro is not just about music. It’s a journey through nature, culture, and stunning landscapes, all set to a beat.
The Ziro Musical Festival is your chance to explore a world filled with wonder, where the Apatani people and their unique culture thrive. From their unique facial tattoos and nose piercings to their traditional music, you’ll get a glimpse into a way of life that’s rapidly disappearing. And, above all, you’ll have the opportunity to taste the authentic cuisine of Arunachal, perfectly complemented with local Rice Beer, Kiwi Beer, or Apong.
And what makes this festival stand out is its conscious effort to promote sustainability and eco-friendliness. They’ve made it a point to reduce waste, encourage recycling, and promote responsible practices. Ziro Musical Festival has a strong commitment to protecting the environment, making it an event with a conscience. So while you dance to the beats and lose yourself in the music, you can also feel good about being part of a sustainable movement.
READ MORE: Ziro Festival of Music
At this festival, creativity knows no bounds. You’ll find awe-inspiring art installations, captivating workshops, and interactive experiences that add an extra layer of magic to the overall atmosphere. The Ziro Musical Festival is all about fostering a sense of unity and togetherness. This year the Ziro Festival starts on 28 September 2023.
Every Indian citizen, except those from Arunachal Pradesh, must obtain an ILP or Inner Line Permit. The ILP can be conveniently applied online through the ILP Arunachal website. It is recommended for travelers book their accommodation well in advance as there are limited options available in Ziro. In Ziro Valley music is a way of life. It’s an expression of love, a medium for telling stories, and a way to connect with each other.
Entry tickets to the Ziro Festival of Music are available on the official Website of the Ziro Musical Festival