A Spellbinding Celebration of Music, Nature, Adventure, Culture & Culinary Magic in Meghalaya awaits this December 6 & 7
Shillong, Meghalaya: Picture this:Imagine this: the fresh hilltop breeze, the shimmering surface of Umiam Lake mirroring the golden glow of the setting sun, and the hum of anticipation as The Hills Festival – The Spirit of Meghalaya returns, bigger, bolder, and more magical than ever. Supported by Meghalaya Tourism, the fifth season of this much-loved festival will take place on December 6–7, 2024. The festival promises to be an unforgettable weekend celebrating music, art, culture, and cuisine in the heart of Northeast India.
Whether you’re a seeker of soulful melodies, a culinary enthusiast, or an adventurer chasing thrills, The Hills Festival offers something for everyone. And yes, it’s completely family- and pet-friendly, making it the perfect gathering for loved ones, both human and furry.
Here’s all that one can do and more at this eclectic festival…
A Musical Lineup to Remember
The festival boasts a two-stage extravaganza with an eclectic mix of international stars and homegrown talent:
- Hills Live Stage: Acoustic, folk & bands performances set against the tranquil backdrop of Umiam Lake.
- Electric Hills Stage: High-energy beats and experimental sounds that will keep you grooving late into the night.
The Ultimate Artist Line-Up:
- Yashraj: Mumbai-based rapper redefining hip-hop with bold tracks such as Dhundhala and Ishq Nachaawe
- I Built The Sky: Melbourne-based guitarist Ro Han leads IBTS, crafting progressive metal
- Mookhuri: Khasi folk band bringing Meghalaya’s traditions to life
- Tiana Khasi (AUS): Samoan-Indian artist blending R&B, jazz, and contemporary sounds
- Lis (USA): Dynamic USA drummer energizing global audiences
- Robu (UK/IND): London-based producer delivering heavy drops and bouncy beats
- INSOWMYA: Electronic artist known for bass-heavy beats and Boiler Room hits
- Yung Sammy (NG/IND): Nigerian-Indian rapper mixing Afro and Desi vibes with global appeal
…and many more!
The Forage Aisle Experience by SUNRISE
Food takes center stage at The Hills Festival, with The Forage Aisle by SUNRISE delivering an immersive experience of Meghalaya’s wild edibles and traditional flavors. Under the guidance of culinary maestro Chef Nambie Jessica Marak, alongside Ridalang Tariang and Team Roma Eatery, local ingredients are transformed into innovative dishes that are both rooted in tradition and reimagined for today’s palate.
SUNRISE HILLSFEAST
For a truly expansive culinary journey, the SUNRISE HILLSFEAST offers a vibrant showcase of Meghalaya’s rich gastronomic heritage, bringing together over 20+ talented local food entrepreneurs. Here, the region’s most celebrated flavors come alive, from tantalizing local delicacies to hearty traditional meals that warm the soul. This is not just a feast—it’s where culture and cuisine converge, offering a deliciously immersive experience that captures the essence of Meghalaya’s culinary traditions.
Art & Culture
The Hills Festival goes beyond music and food, weaving an artistic narrative through its immersive art installations that transform the festival’s sprawling 43-acre venue into a vibrant canvas of creativity. These installations, designed to spark awe and wonder, seamlessly blend with the natural beauty of Meghalaya, creating a space where art and nature converge to tell stories that captivate the imagination.
Camping & Adventure
For those seeking a deeper connection with the festival’s enchanting surroundings, CampX, the official camping partner, offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity. Nestled amidst the serene landscape, the camping experience allows attendees to stay close to nature while immersing themselves in the festival’s electric vibe. With cozy tents, stunning views, and an air of adventure, CampX ensures that the magic of The Hills Festival extends long after the last performance ends.
Hot Air Ballooning Returns
Get ready to see Meghalaya like never before as hot air ballooning makes a grand comeback to The Hills Festival. Soar above Umiam Lake for panoramic views of the festival grounds, the rolling hills, and the endless blue skies. It’s an adventure that pairs adrenaline with breathtaking beauty!
A Tribute to Meghalaya’s Heritage
The Hills Festival isn’t just an event; it’s a celebration of Meghalaya’s soul. From the shimmering waters of Umiam Lake to the captivating Khasi folk performances, every aspect of the festival is a nod to the region’s vibrant culture. Visitors can also use the festival as a springboard to explore Meghalaya’s other wonders—living root bridges, mystical caves, and cascading waterfalls.
With the unwavering support of Meghalaya Tourism, this year’s festival reinforces the state’s position as a premier destination for cultural and experiential tourism.
Meet the Visionary Behind the Magic
At the helm of this cultural phenomenon is Ridalang Tariang and Sahil Majaw, the founders of The Hills Festival who envisioned a festival that would not only showcase Meghalaya’s stunning landscapes but also create a platform to celebrate the region’s rich heritage and contemporary artistry. Under their leadership, the festival has grown into a must-attend event, merging global appeal with local authenticity.
So, mark your calendars, and prepare to experience a festival like no other!
When: December 6 & 7, 1 pm onwards
Where: Umiam, Umbir Village, Shillong, Meghalaya
For Tickets: www.bookmyshow.com
