The Ziro Music Festival is an outdoor celebration of independent music in the Apatani-hosted Ziro Valley. Held over four days every September and started in 2012 by Bobby Hano and Menwhopause guitarist Anup Kutty, this festival showcases a brilliant lineup of artists from the Indian indie scene and beyond. It blends local culture, bamboo built stages and emerging artists, one reason it’s become a must-visit on every India-festival lover’s list.
When is the Ziro Music Festival in 2025?
The Ziro Festival of Music for 2025 is scheduled from September 25th to September 28th. This is the perfect time to experience the valley as the post-monsoon season begins, leaving behind lush green landscapes and pleasant weather, ideal for an outdoor music event.
How do I get from Guwahati to Ziro?
There is no direct flight or train to the valley, so a multi-leg journey is required, typically starting from Guwahati.
Step 1: Guwahati to Itanagar/Naharlagun
- By Train: The Donyi Polo Express is an overnight train from Guwahati to Naharlagun (the closest station to Ziro). It’s a popular and budget friendly option.
- By Flight: You can fly from Guwahati to Hollongi Airport in Itanagar. This is the fastest option.
Step 2: The Final Leg to Ziro Valley
From Naharlagun or Itanagar, you must travel about 4 to 5 hours by road. The complete road journey from Guwahati to Ziro is around 450 km and can take 12 to 14 hours. A private car rental from Guwahati to Ziro with a professional driver who knows the route is a wise choice.
Taxi Nation specializes in Northeast travel, offering a fleet of well-maintained Cars and experienced drivers. Booking a dedicated taxi to Ziro ensures you can arrive ready for the festival, not exhausted by the journey. A comfortable car rental to Ziro is the smartest way to begin your adventure.
What About Special Permits?
To enter Arunachal Pradesh, all visitors need a special permit. Do not leave this for the last minute.
- Indian Citizens: You need an Inner Line Permit (ILP). This can be easily applied for online through the official Arunachal Pradesh government portal.
- Foreign Nationals: You need a Protected Area Permit (PAP). This is typically arranged through an authorized Indian tour operator.
You will be checked for your permit at multiple points. No permit, no entry.
Step-by-step checklist to Plan the Ziro Festival
- Book Ziro festival tickets early; passes can sell out.
- Apply for your Ziro festival permit ILP (Indians) or PAP (foreigners) well before departure.
- Reserve Ziro festival accommodation near venue or camping spots, homestays fill up fast.
What does Ziro festival camping offer?
Yes, camping is core to the experience. Bring a warm sleeping bag, strong tent, waterproof layers (monsoon often stays till September), personal first-aid, and eco-friendly toiletries to make your camping experiences better. Follow the festival’s cleanliness rules and support local food stalls.
Is the Ziro Music festival safe and accessible?
Ziro is considered very safe and community-oriented, but treat it like any remote festival and travel in groups where possible, use registered taxis (book car rental from Guwahati to Ziro or a reputable Taxi to Ziro), and keep emergency contacts handy.
What Should I Pack?
Packing for Ziro means preparing for all conditions.
- Clothing: Pack in layers. T-shirts for the day, sweaters and a warm jacket for the chilly nights.
- Footwear: Gumboots are a lifesaver. The ground can get very muddy. Also, pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes.
- Rain Protection: A good quality raincoat or poncho is essential. The weather is unpredictable.
- Health & Hygiene: A basic first-aid kit, insect repellent, sanitizer, and your personal medications.
- Electronics: A high-capacity power bank is a must. Electricity can be erratic.
- Documents: Printed copies of your ILP/PAP, your ID, and your festival ticket.
- Cash: Carry sufficient cash. The nearest reliable ATM is in Hapoli town, a few kilometers away.
Where can I find the Ziro festival lineup 2025?
Official lineup updates and artist announcements are on the festival website and their social channels, bookmark the festival page to catch changes and day-wise programming.
Conclusion
Secure your Ziro festival tickets, sort permits (ILP/PAP), and book your transport early, disconnect from the noise and reconnect with music, nature, and humanity. The journey may be long, but the destination is, without a doubt, worth every mile.
