Jatinga Bird Festival is one of the iconic festivals of the Dima Hasao district of Assam. It is one of the newest editions of the list of festivals of the Dima Hasao district as it was started in the year 2019. This annual gathering is organized with the dual purpose of raising awareness for the protection of migratory birds that flock to the Borail Range during winter and promoting tourism in the district. It is organised by North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council (NCHAC).
Why Jatinga Bird Festival is organised?
The Jatinga Bird Festival is organised to raise awareness about the conservation of various species of Birds that commit suicide (?) or die at Jatinga village every year due to some mysterious reasons. It is also organised to boost the tourism potential of Jatinga village and its neighbouring town like Haflong and Umrangso.
What is Jatinga famous for?
Jatinga village is famous for the phenomenon of birds ‘committing suicide’. It is often known as The Bermuda Triangle for Birds. Every year, thousands of local and migratory birds come to Jatinga, typically in September and October and they die under mysterious circumstances.
You can read more about the mysterious death of birds at Jatinga Village in this blog.
When and Where Jatinga Festival is Organised?
Jatinga Bird Festival is organised every year during the month of October. Earlier, it used to be held at Jatinga Village. From 2023, a new location of the Jatinga Festival Venue is selected near N.Leikul village.
The venue of the Jatinga Bird Festival 2023 is Natun Leikul Village. The venue of the festival is 24 km from the Haflong (district headquarter of Dima Hasao). It is generally organised for 2/3 days. In 2023, the festival was held on two days i.e. October 21 and October 22.
Main Attractions of Jatinga Bird Festival
Jatinga Bird Festival offers a diverse range of attractions and activities for its visitors. The most unique and instagram-worthy activity is the canopy. The organisers of Jatinga Bird Festival construct a light canopy with hills in the background. Visitors can stroll and click some really beautiful pictures.
Musical Events: The music concert is the main event of Jatinga Bird Festival. The locals of Dima Hasao is known for its taste of music. Rock and pop music is very famous here, with many local rock bands perform in the Jatinga Music Festival. Besides, various national award winning artists were also invited
Local Cuisine: During Jatinga Bird Festival, visitors have the opportunity to savor local flavors and experience the rich food culture of the region. The tribal dishes of Dima Hasao with unique ingredients like Bamboo Shoot, Bhoot Jolokiya, Mesenga Tenga, Khar, Kosu etc are the savours. If you are a lover if non-vegetarian food then you will get ample opportunities to savour pork, duck, mutton and variety of fishes.
Cultural Exhibits: The festival may feature exhibits that highlight the cultural heritage of the region, including traditional dances, rituals, and customs. This can include traditional artwork, handicrafts, and other cultural artifacts, allowing visitors to learn more about the indigenous heritage of Dima Hasao.
Community Engagement: Festivals often serve as a platform for community engagement. Local communities may actively participate, sharing their knowledge and traditions with visitors, fostering a sense of community and cultural exchange. Quiz competition, beauty contests are organised at the community level.
Bird Watching, Nature Walks and Eco-Tours : Jatinga is known for the variety of local and migratory birds found in the region, especially around Jatinga Village. Jatinga Bird Watching Tower and Jatinga View Point are the main centers of attractions. Besides bird watching, the hill and valley view from those locations are also amazing. Depending on the festival’s location, organizers may arrange nature walks or eco-tours to explore the natural beauty of the surroundings. This can complement the bird-watching experience and provide additional recreational opportunities.
Jatinga Bird Festival Tickets and Booking
It seems like there has been a change in the policy for the Jatinga Bird Festival, and starting from 2023, attendees are required to purchase tickets for entry. The tickets cost 200 rupees each, and there is no online option available for buying tickets. Instead, you can book tickets by visiting the festival site or the tourism office of the Dima Hasao administration. Tickets are not limited, so there is no need to pre-book.
How To Reach Jatinga?
Haflong, the headquarter of Dima Hasao district, is the nearest town to Jatinga.Haflong to Jatinga is 12 min (5.4 km) road journey via NH 627. Haflong is well-connected to the Guwahati – state capital of Assam and it is located southeast of Guwahati approximately 330 km away. It can be reached through various modes of transport like train, bus and hired taxi.
Where to Stay near Jatinga?
As Jatinga is very close to Haflong, it is advisable to stay in Haflong. There are many hotels, lodges and resorts offering good services. You don’t need to pre-book as abundant hotels are available. If you are travelling with family, staying at Hotels and resorts ner Haflong would be the best option.
If you are solo-travelling or travelling with a young group, you can choose to stay at campsite which is organised by event organisers. The cost is 2500 rupees per person, inclusive of tent accommodation and three meals.
Places to Explore near Jatinga
TongHaam / Tongham Waterfall
As it is situated at Natun Leikul village, it is also known as Natun Leikul Waterfall. Waterfall is just 700 meter away from the camping location of Jatinga Bird Festival. It is just 20 km away from Haflong and the waterfall can be reached via NH 27. You have to park your vehicle at the village and trek from there. The road to the waterfall is not properly demarcated and we all know the accuracy of Google Maps in exploring! So, It’s better to ask the locals in advance or take a guide. You can bathe in the pool of the waterfall. All you need to do is bring extra pairs of clothes and towels.
Tourist Places of Haflong
The whole of Dima Hasao district of Assam is blessed with beautiful landscapes. Haflong being the headquarter of Dima Hasao district act as central point if you are to explore all the important places of Dima Hasao. You must check out this list of tourist places of Haflong.
