DIMAPUR — This year’s edition of Hornbill
Festival saw a 33.7% increase in the number of total visitors compared to last
year, according to a DIPR update on Wednesday.
As reported, the total number of visitors this year was
2,05,968; last year, it was 1,54,057. “As per the data given by the Directorate
of Tourism, this year’s festival attracted a diverse crowd, with 2,527 foreign
tourists, 56,217 domestic visitors, and 1,47,224 local attendees.
“Day-10 saw the highest attendance, with 32,081 visitors,
making it the peak day in terms of turnout. The final day of the festival also
witnessed the highest number of local attendees, with 23,816 people in
attendance. The first day of the festival recorded the highest number of
foreign visitors, with 513 tourists, while day-8 saw the largest number of
domestic visitors, reaching 9,342. On the other hand, day-4 had the lowest
turnout, with 14,502 visitors,” it stated.
The number of foreign tourists increased from 2,108 in 2023
to 2,375 in 2024. Domestic visitors also saw a sharp rise: from 37,089 last
year to 56,217 this year.
Local attendance also grew from 1,14,860 to 1,47,224,
“reflecting the festival's deepening connection with the local population and
its appeal to a wider audience,” it stated.
“The Hornbill Festival, known for showcasing the diverse
cultures and traditions of Nagaland, continues to grow in prominence as a major
cultural and tourism event in India.
“As the 'Festival of Festivals' celebrated its 25th edition,
it further cemented its position as one of the most anticipated events of the
year, attracting tourists from around the world and fostering a stronger
appreciation for the region’s heritage,” it added.
