Ziro Music Festival 2024: India’s Best Music Event | Travel Guide

From securing your Ziro festival tickets to planning how to reach Ziro Valley, every detail adds to the adventure. The Ziro Festival of Music stands out with its commitment to sustainable practices at the Ziro Music Festival. 

Get ready to groove with the Ziro festival line up under the stars at the Ziro Music Festival and embrace the enchanting experience. Dive into the magic of the Ziro Music Festival!

Story of Ziro Music Festival

Beginnings and Early Struggles

Growing Bigger and Better

Cultural Melting Pot

Sustainability and Community

A Symbol of Unity and Culture

Whether you’re looking for Ziro festival tickets or planning your stay by camping in Ziro Valley, this festival promises something special for everyone, making it a must-visit destination for music and nature lovers alike.

Sustainability at the Heart of Ziro Music Festival

Eco-Friendly Infrastructure

Green Practices and Materials

Water Conservation and Waste Management

Community and Cultural Integration

Sustainable Visitor Management

Promoting Sustainable Practices

Legacy of Sustainability

This commitment to sustainability not only enhances the festival experience but also sets a benchmark for other events worldwide, proving that environmental responsibility and cultural celebrations can go hand in hand.

Ziro Festival Line Up 2024

• Ballimaaraan – The Piyush Mishra Project (Mumbai): Led by the versatile artist Piyush Mishra, Ballimaaraan blends Hindi poetry, music, and storytelling. The band’s music is known for its thought-provoking lyrics and unique sound that resonates with the socio-political landscape of India.

• Parvaaz (Bengaluru): A contemporary rock band from Bengaluru, Parvaaz blends elements of rock with Kashmiri and Urdu poetry, creating a soulful and immersive soundscape that has gained them a dedicated following across India.

• Kailasa: Founded by the iconic Kailash Kher, Kailasa combines traditional Indian music with contemporary sounds. Known for their powerful lyrics and Kailash Kher’s distinct voice, the band has made a significant mark in the Indian music scene.

• Sushant KC (Nepal): A rising star from Nepal, Sushant KC is known for his heartfelt lyrics and melodious tunes. His music, often sung in Nepali, touches on themes of love, life, and personal experiences.

• Tamikrest (Mali): This Malian band blends traditional Tuareg music with rock, creating a powerful and rhythmic sound that reflects the culture and struggles of the Tuareg people. Their music is both a celebration of their heritage and a call for change.

• Saskia Laroo (Netherlands): Dubbed the “Lady Miles Davis of Europe,” Saskia Laroo is a jazz trumpeter from the Netherlands. Her music combines jazz with hip-hop, funk, and world music, making her performances dynamic and eclectic.

• Dobom Doji Collective (Arunachal Pradesh): This group from Arunachal Pradesh fuses traditional folk music with modern genres. Their performances are vibrant, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region while blending it with contemporary sounds.

• G Force (Sikkim): Hailing from Sikkim, G Force is known for their energetic performances and unique blend of rock and local folk music. Their sound captures the essence of the Northeastern musical landscape.

• Amateur Takes Control (Singapore): An instrumental rock band from Singapore, Amateur Takes Control is known for their intricate guitar work and expansive soundscapes. Their music is often described as post-rock, blending melodic and atmospheric elements.

• Hollow Ship (Sweden): Hollow Ship from Sweden is a psychedelic rock band that creates immersive and experimental soundscapes. Their music often features complex layers and hypnotic rhythms, taking listeners on a sonic journey.

• Fakira (Kolkata): Fakira is a Bengali folk band that brings the Baul tradition to the modern stage. Their music combines traditional lyrics and tunes with contemporary arrangements, creating a fresh yet nostalgic sound.

• Gowwli (Kerala): A band that fuses traditional Kerala folk music with modern elements, Gowwli creates a sound that is both rooted in tradition and forward-looking. Their performances often include traditional instruments and rhythmic patterns.

• Hanita Bambri (Mumbai): Hanita Bambri is a singer-songwriter from Mumbai known for her soulful voice and introspective lyrics. Her music often explores themes of love, self-discovery, and emotional experiences.

• Pink Moss (Goa): This band from Goa blends rock with electronic music, creating a vibrant and danceable sound. Their performances are energetic, often featuring a mix of live instruments and electronic beats.

• The Gluttones (Nagaland): A rock band from Nagaland, The Gluttones are known for their raw sound and powerful performances. Their music is influenced by classic rock and blues, with a Northeastern twist.

• Sarthak Mudgal (Delhi): A percussionist and composer from Delhi, Sarthak Mudgal is known for his innovative use of Indian percussion instruments in contemporary music. His performances are rhythmic and engaging, showcasing his deep understanding of rhythm.

• Teesta Troupers (West Bengal): This group from West Bengal performs traditional folk music, often incorporating elements of dance and theater. Their performances are a vibrant celebration of Bengali culture.

• Dr. Ramprasad (Chennai): A Carnatic musician from Chennai, Dr. Ramprasad is known for his deep understanding of classical music. His performances are a blend of traditional and contemporary interpretations of Carnatic compositions.

• The Paradise Bangkok Molam International Band (Thailand): This band from Thailand brings the traditional music of Isan (Northeastern Thailand) to the world stage, blending it with funk and blues to create a unique and danceable sound.

• Aayna (DJ Set) (Kolkata): Aayna is a DJ from Kolkata known for her eclectic mixes that blend electronic music with Indian rhythms. Her sets are energetic, creating a lively atmosphere on the dance floor.

• Hanumankind (Bengaluru): A rapper from Bengaluru, Hanumankind is known for his powerful lyrics and dynamic flow. His music often explores social issues and personal experiences, making his performances both thought-provoking and engaging.

• Murder in Space (Meghalaya): An indie rock band from Meghalaya, Murder in Space combines elements of alternative rock with local influences. Their sound is edgy and energetic, reflecting the contemporary music scene of the Northeast.

• Alboe (Live) (Delhi): Alboe is an electronic music producer from Delhi known for his melodic and atmospheric tracks. His live sets often feature a mix of electronic beats and live instruments, creating a rich and immersive experience.

• Bottlesmoker (Bio-plant Sonic Meditation Set) (Indonesia): This electronic duo from Indonesia creates ambient music using plant bio-feedback and electronic sounds. Their performances are meditative and experimental, offering a unique auditory experience.

• Jay Pei (Live) (Delhi): A music producer and DJ from Delhi, Jay Pei is known for his deep house and techno tracks. His live sets are often immersive, blending electronic beats with live instrumentation.

• Flux Vortex (Live) (Goa): An electronic music project from Goa, Flux Vortex creates psychedelic and ambient soundscapes. Their live performances are often visual and auditory experiences, blending music with immersive visuals.

• Hamza Rahimtula + Rajasthan Folkstars (Live) (Delhi/Rajasthan): This collaboration between electronic music producer Hamza Rahimtula and traditional Rajasthani musicians brings together the best of both worlds. The result is a fusion of electronic beats with traditional Indian melodies.

• Shantam (Live) (Goa): An electronic music producer from Goa, Shantam is known for his deep and atmospheric tracks. His live sets are often immersive, featuring a mix of electronic and organic sounds.

• Modest Crow (Live) (Israel): An experimental electronic music project from Israel, Modest Crow blends elements of downtempo, ambient, and world music to create unique and introspective soundscapes.

• Parallel Voices (Live) (Madhya Pradesh): An experimental music project from Madhya Pradesh, Parallel Voices blends electronic and acoustic elements to create a unique and evolving sound. Their live performances are often immersive and thought-provoking.

• Jamna Paar (Live) (Delhi): A band from Delhi, Jamna Paar combines traditional Indian music with contemporary sounds. Their music is a celebration of Delhi’s rich cultural heritage, with a modern twist.

• Strings Attached (Bengaluru): This band from Bengaluru is known for their acoustic and unplugged performances, often featuring a mix of Indian classical and contemporary music.

• Benjamin Sum (Mizoram): A singer-songwriter from Mizoram, Benjamin Sum is known for his heartfelt lyrics and soulful voice. His music often reflects the culture and traditions of his homeland, with a modern touch.

• Dynamite Disco Club Showcase (DJ Set) (Bengaluru): A DJ collective from Bengaluru, Dynamite Disco Club is known for their funky and groovy sets. Their music is a blend of disco, house, and electronic beats, creating a lively atmosphere on the dance floor.

• Sutej Singh (Himachal Pradesh): A guitarist and composer from Himachal Pradesh, Sutej Singh is known for his instrumental rock music. His compositions are melodic and emotive, often inspired by the natural beauty of his homeland.
• H.O.M. (Mizoram): H.O.M. is a band from Mizoram known for their unique blend of rock and local folk music. Their sound is energetic and powerful, reflecting the vibrant music scene of the Northeast.

Ziro Festival Tickets Information

1. Ticket Pricing and Details

• Day 1 (Thursday 26 Sept 2024): ₹2,600.00
• Day 2 (Friday 27 Sept 2024): ₹3,500.00
• Day 3 (Saturday 28 Sept 2024): ₹3,500.00
• Day 4 (Sunday 29 Sept 2024): ₹3,500.00
• Four Day Festival Ticket (Phase 1): ₹8,500.00

Tickets for the Ziro Music Festival are specifically designed to cater to various preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy the rich tapestry of music and culture at one of the most anticipated indie music festivals in India.

2. Entry Requirements

3. Ticket Usage

4. Refund Policy

5. Age and Pet Policies

6. Payment and Recording Policies

7. Prohibited Items and Festival Rules

8. Liability and Contact Information

9. General Agreement

10. Refund and Credit Conditions

This comprehensive ticket information ensures that attendees can fully prepare and immerse themselves in the unique and vibrant atmosphere of the Ziro Music Festival, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of Arunachal Pradesh at this renowned outdoor music festival.

Beyond the Music: Discovering the Culture of Ziro

1. Exploring Traditional Arts and Culture

The Ziro Festival of Music goes beyond just being a musical extravaganza. It serves as a vibrant platform for experiencing the rich cultural heritage of the Apatani tribe. Festival-goers can engage in various workshops that highlight traditional arts and crafts, offering hands-on experience in painting, crafts making, and even learning to play the indigenous Apatani flute (elu), crafted from paddy straw. Additionally, yoga, meditation, dance, and movement sessions are available to enhance your spiritual and physical well-being during the festival.

2. Signature Masterclasses and Local Gastronomy

A unique aspect of the festival is the opportunity to participate in Signature Masterclasses, such as those hosted by celebrity mixologist Yangdup Lama. These classes use local ingredients to create exceptional cocktails, showcasing the culinary diversity and sustainable practices at Ziro. The festival’s commitment to sustainability is also mirrored in these sessions, which emphasise the use of local resources and traditional methods.

3. Cultural and Natural Excursions

Outside the musical venue, the Ziro festival offers guided tours to nearby Apatani villages, where visitors can enjoy ethnic meals and understand the community’s way of life. For wine enthusiasts, a tour of Naara-Aaba winery in Hong village offers a taste of India’s first kiwi wine, a local enterprise featured in Shark Tank India Season 2.

4. Natural Wonders and Wildlife

Ziro’s natural beauty is on full display with several attractions within easy reach. From majestic waterfalls and innovative paddy-fish farms to the scenic beauty of Kile Pakho ridge, where the views of the plateau and the snow-clad Himalayan range, Nyime Pembu, are truly breathtaking. The Shri Sidheshwar Nath Temple near Hapoli, known for the world’s tallest naturally formed Shivling, is another must-visit for both spiritual enrichment and its stunning architectural design.

5. Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary offers an adventurous escape, with potential sightings of exotic species like clouded leopards, black giant squirrels, and the Asian palm civet. Bird watchers can also delight in spotting rare birds such as the black eagle and golden-breasted fulvetta.

6. Plan Your Visit

To make the most of your visit, check the Ziro festival timings and plan your activities around the music performances. This allows you to fully immerse yourself in both the sonic and cultural offerings of the festival. Remember, engaging in these activities supports the sustainable practices at Ziro, contributing to the preservation of this unique cultural and natural haven.

Accommodations at Ziro Festival of Music: Tents, Homestays, and Hotels

1. Camping Options in Ziro Valley

For those looking to fully immerse themselves in the festival atmosphere, camping in Ziro Valley offers a variety of options. Campsites range from basic setups to luxury accommodations, ensuring that every festival-goer’s needs are met. Notably, Camp Zingaros, Kite Manja, and Stay High Adventures offer prime locations close to the festival grounds, making them popular choices for both convenience and their longstanding association with the festival.

In line with sustainable practices at Ziro Valley, Signature Packaged Drinking Water is introducing luxury camps that are both eco-friendly and comfortable. These camps allow you to enjoy the festival while contributing positively to the environment. Additionally, Encamp Adventures provides a BYOT (bring your own tent) option, appealing to those who prefer a more personalised camping experience.

2. Homestay Experience

Homestays are a fantastic way to connect with the local community. Many Ziro residents open their homes to festival attendees, offering a unique and authentic lodging experience. These homestays can be booked online, and many visitors return year after year, building lasting relationships with their hosts. This intimate accommodation option not only supports local households but also helps visitors experience the true essence of Ziro’s hospitality.

3. Hotel Accommodations

While Ziro does not host large hotel chains, several local hotels provide comfortable accommodations. The Ziro Valley Resort and Ziro Palace Inn, located less than 1km from the festival grounds, offer convenience and comfort close to the festival activities. For those looking to explore more of Ziro outside of the festival times, Hotel Blue Pine located in the market area offers a good base from which to venture into the valley.

4. Sustainable Lodging Practices

All accommodation options are encouraged to adopt sustainable practices at Ziro Valley, from waste management to the use of local resources, contributing to the preservation of Ziro’s natural beauty and cultural integrity. Whether you choose to camp, stay in a homestay, or book a hotel, your stay can contribute to sustainable tourism in the area.

What To Eat And Drink 

Local cuisine in Ziro revolves around the use of bamboo, fermentation, boiling, and steaming. Vegetarians can savour dishes like bamboo shoots with rice or opt for traditional staples like rice and dal paired with locally grown vegetables. Ziro residents are accommodating and can customise dishes to suit vegetarian or vegan diets.

For those who enjoy meat, Apatani delicacies include roasted and boiled pork in bamboo stem, beef stew, or roast. Fish is a popular item on the menu due to the unique paddy-fish cultivation practised by the Apatani tribe. Adventurous eaters can try roasted grasshoppers, a local snack on the go.

To quench your thirst, indulge in Apong, a rice or millet-based drink that resembles wine. The region also offers delicious apple or kiwi wine, with Arunachal Pradesh being India’s largest producer of kiwis. The kiwi production is certified organic, reflecting the Apatani tribe commit

Travel Tips To Keep In Mind

1. Plan Ahead

• Research your destination: Learn about local customs, weather conditions, and essential sights. Knowing what to expect can help you pack appropriately and create a fulfilling itinerary.
• Book in advance: Secure accommodations, transportation, and tickets for attractions ahead of time to avoid last-minute stress and potentially higher prices.

2. Pack Smart

• Essentials first: Always pack important documents, medications, and valuables in your carry-on. Make sure you have copies of your passport, travel insurance, and emergency contacts.
• Pack according to weather: Check the forecast for your destination a week before you travel and pack clothes that can be layered if necessary.
• Limit luggage: Try to pack light to move more freely. Use packing cubes or rolling techniques to maximise space and keep your belongings organised.

3. Stay Safe

• Keep valuables secure: Use hotel safes or keep important items close to you in a secure bag, especially in crowded areas.
• Stay informed: Keep up with local news and be aware of any travel warnings or safety advisories for your destination.
• Health precautions: Depending on your destination, you may need specific vaccinations or health precautions. Consult a travel clinic before your trip.

4. Money Matters

• Notify your bank: Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any fraud alerts or blocks on your cards while abroad.
• Local currency: While it’s important to carry some local currency, consider using credit cards or travel money cards as safer alternatives to carrying large amounts of cash.
• Budget wisely: Keep track of your expenses to avoid overspending. Consider using budgeting apps to manage your finances on the go.

5. Local Interaction

• Learn basic phrases: Knowing simple phrases in the local language can enhance your interaction with locals and show respect for the culture.
• Respect local customs: Be mindful of local traditions and etiquette, especially when visiting religious sites or participating in local festivals.

6. Sustainable Travel

• Respect the environment: Practise eco-friendly habits such as recycling, using public transportation, and avoiding single-use plastics.
• Support local businesses: Opt for local eateries, stay in local accommodations, and purchase souvenirs from local artisans to help support the local economy.

7.  Stay Connected

• SIM card or roaming: Depending on the length of your stay, consider buying a local SIM card for data and calls or arrange a roaming package with your current provider.
• Portable charger: Keep a portable charger handy to ensure your phone and other devices never run out of battery when you need them most.

How to Reach Ziro Valley

By Air

• Primary Airports: Fly to Guwahati Airport or Itanagar Airport for reliability.
• Transport: Bus pickup and drop-off from Itanagar to Ziro available for INR 2000.

By Rail

• Nearest Station: Naharlagun, about 3 hours from Ziro.
• Options: Overnight trains from Guwahati; Shatabdi Express runs three times a week.
• Transport: Bus service from Naharlagun station to Ziro for INR 2000.

By Road

• Route: Drive from Guwahati to Ziro, which takes about 7 hours via NH27 or NH15.
• Scenery: Enjoy scenic northeastern landscapes along the way.

Travel Tips

• Advance Bookings: Essential during festival season for all modes of transport.
• Travel Light: Makes for easier and more comfortable journeys, especially on winding roads.
• Stay Informed: Keep up with travel updates and maintain contact with transport providers.

Conclusion