Dwijing Festival 2026: The Grand Return of Bodoland's Riverside Extravaganza
One of Bodoland's most recognised winter tourism celebrations is preparing for a return in December 2026. The Dwijing Festival, also known as the Aie River Festival, is scheduled to take place from 11 to 22 December along the scenic banks of the Aie River in Chirang district, Assam. After a five-year interruption, the festival is expected to bring back its combination of indigenous culture, live music, adventure activities, traditional food and riverside experiences.
Located near the iconic Hagrama Bridge in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), the festival offers visitors an opportunity to experience the traditions and hospitality of Bodoland while exploring the natural beauty of the Aie River landscape.
The 2026 edition is attracting attention for its proposed musical programme featuring Bollywood performers Jubin Nautiyal, Neha Kakkar and Nora Fatehi. Visitors can also look forward to traditional Bodo cultural performances, ethnic food stalls, handicraft exhibitions and outdoor activities. However, individual artist appearances, performance dates and activity schedules should be checked against the organisers' final announcements.
With its riverside setting and emphasis on culture and tourism, Dwijing Festival 2026 is expected to be an important attraction on Assam's winter events calendar.
Dwijing Festival 2026: Important Details at a Glance
| Particular | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival name | Dwijing Festival 2026-27 |
| Also known as | Aie River Festival |
| Dates | 11 to 22 December 2026 |
| Duration | 12 days |
| Venue | Aie River bank, near Hagrama Bridge |
| District | Chirang, Assam |
| Region | Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) |
| Organising and tourism partners | Bodoland Tourism and Assam Tourism |
| Main attractions | Music, cultural programmes, food, handicrafts and adventure activities |
| Artists mentioned in event announcements | Jubin Nautiyal, Neha Kakkar and Nora Fatehi |
| Ticket price | Final 2026-27 pricing to be confirmed |
| Event contact numbers circulated | 6003069798 / 9864987854 |
The dates and venue are being promoted for the 2026-27 edition. Ticket prices, artist appearances, daily schedules and activity availability should be reconfirmed through the event organisers before making travel arrangements.
What Is Dwijing Festival?
Dwijing Festival is a major riverside cultural and tourism celebration in Bodoland, organised along the banks of the Aie River in Assam. It is also popularly known as the Aie River Festival.
The event was first introduced in 2016-17 as the Aie River Winter Festival and was later renamed Dwijing. The name is commonly explained through the Bodo words "Dwi", associated with water, and "Jing", associated with a riverbank. The festival's identity is closely connected with the river and the communities that live in the surrounding region.
The main idea behind the festival is to showcase the cultural heritage of Bodoland, encourage tourism, create opportunities for local businesses and artisans, and bring visitors to the river landscapes of Chirang.
Over the years, Dwijing has developed into a multi-day celebration featuring music concerts, folk performances, exhibitions, traditional food, handicrafts and adventure activities. It provides a platform for local communities to share their culture while introducing visitors to a lesser-explored part of Assam.
The 2026-27 edition is particularly significant because it is being promoted as the festival's return after a five-year break.
History of Dwijing Festival: From Aie River Winter Festival to Dwijing
The festival began in 2016-17 under the name Aie River Winter Festival. It was developed as a tourism initiative to highlight the Aie River, the cultural traditions of the Bodo community and the tourism potential of the Bodoland region.
The event subsequently adopted the name Dwijing, giving it a distinct identity connected with the local language and riverside setting.
Its concept extends beyond a conventional cultural fair. The festival brings together local craftspeople, food producers, performers, tourism businesses and visitors in one large event space. It also creates opportunities for rural communities to participate in tourism-related activities and showcase their products.
Previous editions have featured national and regional musical performers, traditional dance, food exhibitions, adventure activities and temporary cultural displays. These attractions helped establish Dwijing as a recognised winter festival in Assam.
After a five-year interruption, the festival is being promoted for a return from 11 to 22 December 2026. The upcoming edition is expected to renew interest in river-based tourism and cultural experiences across Bodoland.
Where Is Dwijing Festival 2026 Held?
Dwijing Festival 2026 is scheduled to take place on the banks of the Aie River near Hagrama Bridge in Chirang district, within the Bodoland Territorial Region of Assam.
The festival ground is approximately 5 km from Chapaguri along the NH-31C corridor, making it accessible from Bongaigaon and other nearby towns.
The Aie River is an important natural feature of the region and provides the festival with its distinctive riverside setting. The surrounding landscape, open riverbank and views of the bridge create a suitable location for cultural programmes, exhibitions and outdoor attractions.
The river's course and local ground conditions can change over time, so visitors should follow the organisers' latest directions for the exact entry point and festival layout.
Dwijing Festival 2026 Bollywood Artists and Musical Lineup
Live music is one of the major attractions associated with Dwijing Festival. The 2026-27 edition is being promoted with a proposed lineup featuring well-known Indian performers alongside regional artists and cultural groups.
The Bollywood names being circulated for the event include:
1. Neha Kakkar
Neha Kakkar is a popular Indian playback singer known for her work in Hindi film music and contemporary Bollywood songs. Her energetic stage performances and widely recognised songs have made her a familiar name among music audiences.
She is among the artists mentioned in the promotional information for Dwijing Festival 2026-27.
2. Jubin Nautiyal
Jubin Nautiyal is an Indian playback singer known for romantic songs, film soundtracks and popular independent music. His performances attract audiences across different age groups, making him a prominent name in India's live music scene.
He is also being associated with the upcoming Dwijing Festival lineup.
3. Nora Fatehi
Nora Fatehi is an actor, dancer and performer known for her work in Indian films and music videos. Her dance performances and stage presence have made her a recognised entertainer in the Indian entertainment industry.
Her name has also appeared among the proposed headline attractions for the 2026-27 festival.
Regional Music and Cultural Performances
Alongside popular artists, the festival is expected to provide a platform for regional singers, folk musicians and local performers. These performances are an important part of Dwijing because they help introduce visitors to the music and cultural traditions of Bodoland and neighbouring areas.
Important artist update: The names above are associated with the event's promotional lineup, but visitors should check the final organiser-issued programme for confirmed appearances, performance dates and timings. Do not assume that every advertised artist will perform on a particular day until the official schedule is published.
Major Attractions and Things to Do at Dwijing Festival
Dwijing is designed as a multi-experience festival where visitors can spend the day exploring exhibitions and outdoor activities before enjoying cultural and musical programmes in the evening.
1. Bodo Cultural Performances and Traditional Dance
The festival provides an opportunity to experience the rich cultural identity of the Bodo people through traditional music, dance and community performances.
One of the best-known traditional dances of the Bodo community is Bagurumba. Often associated with graceful movements inspired by nature, the dance is an important expression of Bodo cultural heritage.
Visitors may also encounter other regional folk performances, traditional costumes and musical presentations representing the diversity of Bodoland.
2. Traditional Bodo Village Experience
Cultural displays and village-style installations offer visitors an introduction to traditional Bodo houses, lifestyle, household practices and indigenous architecture.
Such displays help visitors understand local traditions beyond the main performance stage. They can also provide an opportunity to interact with local communities and learn about their cultural heritage.
3. Indigenous Handloom and Handicrafts
Local artisans and rural entrepreneurs are an important part of the festival experience. Exhibition stalls generally provide opportunities to explore traditional textiles, handloom products, bamboo and cane crafts, handmade accessories and other locally produced items.
These exhibitions help promote indigenous craftsmanship and provide a marketplace for local producers.
4. Adventure Sports and Outdoor Activities
The riverside setting makes adventure tourism one of the distinctive attractions associated with Dwijing.
Activities promoted at previous editions and in festival information include:
Hot-air balloon rides: An aerial experience offering views of the river and surrounding landscape.
Helicopter tours: An opportunity to view the festival area and nearby countryside from above, subject to operational arrangements.
River rafting: A water-based adventure activity that depends on river conditions and safety arrangements.
Kayaking: A recreational activity for visitors interested in exploring the river.
Jet skiing: A motorised water activity that may be offered where facilities and permissions are available.
Paragliding: An aerial adventure activity that may form part of the wider adventure programme if arranged by the organisers.
Not every activity is guaranteed to operate during every edition. Visitors should check age restrictions, safety requirements, booking arrangements and availability before planning around a particular adventure experience.
5. Ethnic Food and Local Cuisine
Food is another major attraction at Dwijing Festival. Visitors can explore regional flavours through food stalls featuring traditional Bodo dishes and cuisines from other communities of the Northeast.
Depending on the participating vendors, the food area may include traditional rice preparations, rice cakes, smoked and slow-cooked dishes, local meat preparations, snacks, beverages and regional delicacies.
The festival also offers an opportunity to discover local tea and food products while supporting small businesses and community entrepreneurs.
6. Exhibition and Entertainment Zones
Beyond the main stage, visitors can explore exhibition areas, local business stalls, cultural installations and entertainment spaces. These attractions add variety to the festival and allow families and visitors with different interests to enjoy the event throughout the day.
Dwijing Festival 2026 Ticket Price and Entry Information
The official entry ticket price for the 2026-27 edition has not been confirmed in the event information available for this article.
Past editions have had different entry arrangements, and some historical references mention general admission prices starting around Rs 100. However, this should not be treated as the confirmed ticket price for the upcoming festival.
The final entry arrangements may distinguish between general admission, vehicle access, special concert areas or premium experiences. Any separate charges for adventure activities may also apply.
Before visiting, check the latest ticket announcement through the organisers or official Bodoland tourism channels. Avoid paying through unofficial links or unverified agents.
Event Contact Numbers
The following contact numbers have been circulated in connection with Dwijing Festival information:
6003069798
9864987854
Visitors should confirm that these numbers are currently authorised festival contacts before sharing personal details or making payments.
Where to Stay During Dwijing Festival 2026
Visitors attending Dwijing Festival can consider three main accommodation options: temporary riverside campsites, hotels in Bongaigaon and stays in nearby towns such as Bijni and Kajalgaon.
Bongaigaon is generally the most practical accommodation base for travellers looking for a wider choice of hotels, restaurants and transport services.
1. Riverside Camping at the Festival Ground
Temporary campsites and winter-themed camping arrangements may be organised near the Aie River during the festival.
Staying near the riverbank can provide a different experience from a conventional hotel. Visitors may enjoy the surrounding landscape, proximity to festival activities and early morning views of the river.
However, camping arrangements, prices, facilities, availability and booking procedures should be confirmed with the organisers or authorised accommodation providers. Do not assume that campsites are available without a reservation.
2. Hotels in Bongaigaon
Bongaigaon is a convenient base for visitors attending the festival. It offers hotels, restaurants, shopping facilities and railway connectivity.
The following properties are accommodation options mentioned for the Bongaigaon area. Contact details and addresses should be verified directly before booking.
Cygnett Park Meghna
Address: NH 27, Chapaguri, Bongaigaon, Assam 783380
Contacts: +91 85954 50450 / +91 85951 92192
Additional contacts supplied: +91 97068 12399 / +91 97068 12428
Himalaya Hotel
Address: National Highway 31C / NH-27, Chapaguri, Bongaigaon, Assam 783380
Contact: +91 60001 69380
Additional contacts: +91 69130 06381 / +91 88764 49280
SONA HOTEL
Address: Near Roumari Bazar, Chapaguri, Salbari Pt., Bongaigaon, Assam 783380
Contacts: +91 98644 86710 / +91 84533 52931
Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels
Address: Ward No. 4, Chapaguri Road, Bongaigaon, Chirang, Assam 783380
Contact: +91 3664 299 929
Additional contacts: +91 92871 01980 / +91 92871 01981 / +91 92871 01983 / +91 92871 01984
Universal Hotel Bongaigaon
Address: Universal Studio Mall, Chapaguri, Bongaigaon, Assam 783380
Location reference: Near Agarwala S.M. Hospital and Diagnostic Centre
Contact: +91 60022 12268
Hotel Nest Corner
Address: Chapaguri Road, near Rolling Mill Market, Gwjwnpuri, Chapaguri, Bongaigaon, Assam 783380
3. Alternative Accommodation in Bijni and Kajalgaon
Visitors who prefer to stay closer to other parts of Chirang district can also explore accommodation in Bijni and Kajalgaon.
These towns may offer smaller hotels, guest houses and local stays. However, the number of larger hotel properties may be more limited compared with Bongaigaon.
Check the distance from your chosen accommodation to the festival ground and arrange transport in advance.
Accommodation Booking Tips
Book your room early because festival dates can increase demand in nearby towns.
Confirm the exact location and distance from the Aie River festival ground.
Ask whether the property offers parking, breakfast and late-night check-in.
Arrange return transport after evening concerts.
Confirm room rates and cancellation conditions directly with the hotel.
For riverside camping, check sanitation, security, electricity and weather arrangements before booking.
How to Reach Dwijing Festival 2026
Dwijing Festival is held near Hagrama Bridge on the Aie River in Chirang district, Assam. The festival area is accessible from Guwahati, Bongaigaon and other towns in western Assam.
1. By Road
The festival ground is approximately 5 km from Chapaguri along the NH-31C corridor.
From Guwahati: The road journey to the Dwijing Festival area is approximately 180-185 km, depending on the route. Travel time is generally around four hours under favourable road conditions, but traffic and road conditions can increase the duration.
From Bongaigaon: Bongaigaon is one of the nearest major commercial centres. Visitors can use local taxis or other road transport to reach Chapaguri and continue towards the festival ground.
From Chapaguri: The festival venue is approximately 5 km away. Local taxis and other transport options can be used for the final stretch.
2. By Train
Bongaigaon and New Bongaigaon are useful railway stations for visitors travelling to the festival.
These stations are connected to several important cities through long-distance and regional train services. From the railway station, visitors can arrange a taxi or local transport towards Chapaguri and the Aie River festival area.
Check the latest train schedules and station details before planning your journey.
3. By Air
For visitors arriving by air, Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in Guwahati is a practical gateway.
From the airport, travellers can continue towards Bongaigaon and Chirang by road. Another option is to combine air travel with rail or road transport depending on available connections.
After reaching Bongaigaon, local taxis can be arranged for the journey to the festival ground.
Is Dwijing Festival 2026 a Family-Friendly Event?
Dwijing Festival has a strong cultural and tourism focus, with activities that can appeal to families, children, music lovers and visitors interested in local traditions.
The riverside setting, food stalls, handicraft exhibitions and cultural performances offer a range of experiences beyond the evening concerts.
There has also been a community push for a cleaner, greener and more family-oriented festival environment, including discussion around an alcohol-free atmosphere. Visitors should check the organisers' final rules and venue policies rather than assume that a particular restriction has been formally implemented.
Families attending the event should keep children away from restricted river areas, follow safety instructions for adventure activities and plan transport for returning to their accommodation after evening programmes.
Why Visit Dwijing Festival 2026?
Dwijing Festival offers a different way to experience Assam's winter tourism season. Instead of focusing on a single performance or exhibition, it brings together river tourism, indigenous culture, local food, adventure and community participation.
Here are some reasons to include it in your travel plans:
Experience Bodo culture: Discover traditional music, dance, textiles, crafts and local heritage.
Enjoy live music: Follow the announced artist programme and regional musical performances.
Explore the Aie River: Experience the natural setting of one of Bodoland's recognised river tourism destinations.
Try local food: Discover traditional dishes and regional culinary specialities.
Support local artisans: Explore handloom, handicrafts and locally made products.
Enjoy outdoor activities: Check the availability of rafting, kayaking, balloon rides and other adventure experiences.
Explore Bodoland: Combine the festival with visits to nearby destinations and other attractions across the region.
The festival also creates opportunities for local communities and businesses to participate in tourism and benefit from increased visitor activity.
Places to Explore Around Dwijing Festival
If you are travelling to Chirang for the festival, consider extending your visit to explore other destinations in Bodoland. Depending on your available time, you can plan trips to natural attractions, wildlife destinations and cultural sites in the wider region.
Some destinations worth researching include:
Manas National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its wildlife, grasslands and forest ecosystems.
Bornadi Wildlife Sanctuary: A protected natural area in the Bodoland region.
Chakrashila Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for its golden langur habitat and biodiversity.
Bhairabkunda: A scenic destination near the Assam-Bhutan-Arunachal Pradesh border region.
Raimona National Park: A biodiversity-rich destination in western Assam.
Bogamati: A popular riverside and nature destination in the foothills of Bhutan.
These destinations are not all located immediately beside the festival venue. Check distances, access conditions and the time required before combining them with your Dwijing Festival visit.
Responsible Tourism at Dwijing Festival
The Aie River and the surrounding landscape are central to the identity of Dwijing Festival. Visitors can help protect the destination by following a few simple practices.
Avoid throwing plastic, food waste or other rubbish into the river.
Use designated waste collection points.
Respect local customs and community spaces.
Buy local products and support regional artisans.
Follow safety instructions around water sports and adventure activities.
Avoid entering restricted riverbank or operational areas.
Use authorised transport and accommodation providers.
Respect the natural surroundings and avoid disturbing wildlife.
A clean and responsible festival environment benefits both visitors and the communities that host the event.
Conclusion
Dwijing Festival 2026-27 is expected to bring the cultural and tourism spirit of Bodoland back to the banks of the Aie River from 11 to 22 December 2026. With its riverside setting near Hagrama Bridge, traditional Bodo performances, local food, handicrafts, adventure attractions and proposed Bollywood music lineup, the festival offers a wide range of experiences for visitors.
The return of Dwijing after a five-year interruption is an opportunity to renew interest in Chirang and the wider Bodoland region as winter tourism destinations. Whether you are interested in music, culture, food, adventure or discovering a different side of Assam, the festival is worth keeping on your travel calendar.
Before travelling, check the final artist schedule, ticket prices, activity availability and accommodation arrangements through the organisers. A little advance planning will help you make the most of this riverside celebration.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. When will Dwijing Festival 2026 be held?
Dwijing Festival 2026-27 is scheduled from 11 December to 22 December 2026. The festival is planned as a 12-day event.
2. Where is Dwijing Festival held?
The festival is held on the banks of the Aie River near Hagrama Bridge in Chirang district, within the Bodoland Territorial Region of Assam.
3. Why is Dwijing Festival also called the Aie River Festival?
Dwijing is closely associated with the Aie River, where the festival takes place. It was originally known as the Aie River Winter Festival before adopting the name Dwijing.
4. Which Bollywood artists are associated with Dwijing Festival 2026?
The names being promoted for the 2026-27 edition include Jubin Nautiyal, Neha Kakkar and Nora Fatehi. Visitors should confirm their appearances and performance dates through the final organiser-issued programme.
5. What is the ticket price for Dwijing Festival 2026?
The final entry ticket price for the 2026-27 edition has not been confirmed in the event information available for this article. Visitors should check the organisers' latest announcement.
6. How can I reach Dwijing Festival from Guwahati?
Visitors can travel by road from Guwahati towards Bongaigaon and Chirang. The festival area is approximately 180-185 km from Guwahati, depending on the route.
7. Which railway station is nearest to Dwijing Festival?
Bongaigaon and New Bongaigaon are useful railway stations for reaching the festival area. Visitors can arrange local transport from the station to the venue.
8. Where should I stay during Dwijing Festival?
Bongaigaon is a practical accommodation base because it offers hotels and transport facilities. Visitors can also check temporary riverside camping arrangements and stays in nearby towns such as Bijni and Kajalgaon.
9. What activities can visitors enjoy at Dwijing Festival?
The festival is known for cultural performances, live music, traditional food, handicrafts, exhibitions and adventure activities. The availability of specific activities depends on the final event programme and operating arrangements.
10. Is Dwijing Festival suitable for families?
The festival's cultural programmes, food stalls and exhibitions can appeal to families. Visitors should check the final venue rules, safety arrangements and activity restrictions before attending with children.
11. What is the meaning of Dwijing?
The name is commonly explained through the Bodo words "Dwi", associated with water, and "Jing", associated with a riverbank.
12. Why is Dwijing Festival important for Bodoland tourism?
The festival promotes the cultural heritage, local food, handicrafts, river tourism and adventure opportunities of Bodoland. It also creates opportunities for local communities, artisans and businesses to participate in tourism.
