Baukhungri fest returns in Kokrajhar with culture, trek, traditions from April 12

Kokrajhar, Apr 11: The 13th Baukhungri Festival returns in vibrant colours and cultural splendour from April 12 to 14, 2026, at Horinaguri in Kokrajhar, promising three days of tradition, adventure and community celebration.

The announcement was made by BTC MCLA and chairman of the Baukhungri Festival Organising Committee, Dhaneswar Goyari, during a press meet held at the venue on Saturday.

“As in previous years, the festival will include the traditional hill trekking competition, indigenous game competitions and ethnic food stalls, along with vibrant cultural programmes such as Bwisagu dance, Bagurumba dance and performances of songs and dances representing various communities,” said Goyari.

Adding to the excitement, the hill trekking competition will offer attractive cash prizes, with winners in both male and female categories set to receive Rs. 50,000, Rs. 30,000, and Rs. 20,000 for first, second, and third positions, respectively.

Traditional indigenous games will also take centre stage, including Khomlainai, Gila Gelenai, and Bifang Bukhunai. Winners of the Khomlainai competition will be awarded Rs. 10,000, Rs. 7,000, and Rs. 5,000 for the top three positions across both men’s and women’s categories.

Goyari noted that participants from across the country are expected to take part in the trekking competition. He extended an open invitation to people from all walks of life to join the celebrations, particularly the traditional mass hill trekking scheduled for April 14.

Organised annually by the BTC authorities, the Baukhungri Festival aims not only to celebrate indigenous heritage but also to position Baukhungri Hill as a prominent tourist destination through a structured development roadmap.

Deeply rooted in tradition, the festival coincides with Baukhungri Hajw Gakhwnai, the ceremonial climbing of Baukhungri Hill, observed by the Bodo community on April 14, marking the last day of the Choitra month.

Regarded as a significant cultural event in the Bodoland region, it also heralds the arrival of Bwisagu, the Bodo New Year, drawing people from across communities in a spirit of unity and festivity.

Set against the backdrop of Baukhungri’s scenic natural beauty, the festival attracts visitors not only from across Assam and India but also from neighbouring Bhutan and beyond.

A multi-community cultural demonstration was also organised on the day to mark the celebration of the festival.