Baokhungri Festival 2026: Every year in early April, the hills of Harinaguri in Kokrajhar (Bodoland, Assam) witness a vibrant confluence of faith, tradition, sport, music and community spirit. The Baokhungri Festival (also locally called Baukhungri Hajw Gakhwnai) is today one of the marquee festivals of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) — and 2026’s edition has been no exception.
Discover the vibrant traditions of Baokhungri Festival 2026 in Bodoland, Assam — a blend of sacred hill trekking, Bodo culture, local cuisine, indigenous sports, and tourism attractions.
What is Baokhungri Festival?
Baokhungri Festival is a unique cultural and spiritual event celebrated annually in Kokrajhar, the heart of Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), Assam. Traditionally observed by the Bodo community, the festival involves a sacred trekking ritual up the Baokhungri Hill on Chaitra Sankranti (mid-April), marking the Bodo New Year.
Over the years, the festival has evolved into a major tourism and cultural event, showcasing indigenous sports, ethnic food, music, crafts, and adventure tourism.
Baokhungri Festival 2026 – Quick Overview
| Festival Name | Baokhungri Festival |
| Location | Baokhungri Hills, Harinaguri, Kokrajhar, Assam |
| Dates | April 12 – April 14, 2026 |
| Organizer | BTR Government & Tourism Department |
| Main Attraction | Sacred hill trekking, Bodo cultural performances & Adventure sports |
History and Cultural Significance of Baokhungri Festival
The Baokhungri Festival originated from a spiritual tradition where Bodo people climb Baokhungri Hill to offer prayers to local deities like Sibrai and Bwrai Bathou. This annual ritual represents renewal, reverence for nature, and cultural identity.
Now, the festival has transformed into a pan-community celebration that draws thousands of visitors — from spiritual pilgrims to cultural enthusiasts and tourists looking for offbeat experiences in Assam.
Also read, Dwijing Festival 2025-26 Date, Schedule, Celebrities & Significance
Baokhungri Festival 2026 Activities
Sacred Hill Trekking (Main Ritual)
The hill trekking event take place on the auspicious day of Sankranti, the pilgrims climb Baokhungri Hill located in Harinaguri village of Kokrajhar, is a stunning hill station rising to 1,491 feet above sea level. Nestled within the Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary, the hill is home to the endangered golden langur.
It remains the core spiritual activity of the festival and symbolizes the connection between humans, land, and divine.
Cultural Performances & Ethnic Dances
Traditional Bodo dances
- Bagurumba (Bodo butterfly dance)
- Bardwi-Sikhla (Bodo folk dance)
- Jekhai-Khobai etc.
These performances were crowd favorites and reflected the rich tribal heritage of the Bodo community.
Ethnic Food Festival
Food stalls featuring:
- Bodo delicacies like Onla, Pitha, Zumai (rice beer)
- Local street food stalls.
A cooking competition also promoted traditional recipes and healthy local ingredients.
Indigenous Sports & Adventure Activities
Baokhungri Festival 2026 featured:
- Khomlainai (Traditional wrestling)
- Dongfang Bukunai (Bamboo games)
- Marathon races (Various categories)
- Gila gelenai (Traditional Bodo sport)
- Mountain biking (Indigenous)
These adventure activities made the festival more exciting for youth and tourists.
Craft Fair & Handicrafts
Visitors enjoyed browsing through handwoven Bodo textiles, bamboo products, and tribal jewelry. This promoted local artisans and sustainable tourism.
Why You Should Visit Baokhungri Festival?
Whether you’re a spiritual seeker, cultural explorer, or adventure enthusiast, the Baokhungri Festival offers something for everyone:
- Experience authentic Bodo tribal culture
- Witness one of the most unique hill trekking rituals in India
- Support eco-tourism and local livelihoods
- Enjoy offbeat travel in Northeast, India.
How to Reach Baokhungri Festival, Kokrajhar
- Nearest Town: Kokrajhar (10 km away)
- Railway Station: Kokrajhar Railway Station
- Airport: Rupsi Airport (~70 km from the venue)
- By Road: Well connected via NH-31 and state roads.
Tip: Use Google Maps to locate Baokhungri Hills, Harinaguri for exact directions.
Travel Tips for Baokhungri Festival Visitors
- Arrive Early: The hill trekking starts before sunrise
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: For the moderately steep climb
- Avoid Plastic: Carry reusable water bottles.
Conclusion: Baokhungri Festival – More Than Just a Festival
Baokhungri Festival is a vibrant celebration of tradition, faith, food, art, and community unity — all set against the scenic backdrop of Baokhungri Hills, Harinaguri, Kokrajhar, Assam.
If you’re planning your Assam travel itinerary or looking to explore hidden gems in India, mark Baokhungri Festival on your calendar. It’s not just a festival — it’s an unforgettable experience.