Photo by Omkar Thali on Unsplash
Location
Jowai, Meghalaya
Duration
3–4 days
Frequency
Annual
Language
Jaintia, Khasi, English, Hindi
Upcoming confirmed & estimated dates
2026
11 Jul – 14 Jul
The Behdienkhlam Festival is a significant religious and cultural observance of the Pnar people (Jaintia tribe) in Meghalaya, primarily centered in Jowai, West Jaintia Hills. Celebrated annually after the sowing season, its core purpose is to ward off evil spirits, plagues, and diseases, and to seek blessings for a bountiful harvest and community prosperity. The festival is deeply rooted in the indigenous Niamtre faith, with unique rituals such as young men symbolically beating rooftops with bamboo sticks and a competitive wooden ball game called Dad-lawakor. It attracts thousands of locals and some tourists interested in indigenous traditions, ancient rituals, and vibrant cultural displays. The celebration culminates in a procession of tall, decorated bamboo structures that are immersed in a sacred muddy pool, symbolizing the banishment of negativity.
What to experience at this festival
Travel Tips
The festival occurs during the monsoon season in July, so pack waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, and an umbrella. The weather can change quickly.
Accommodation in Jowai during the festival period is limited and can be in high demand, leading to price surges. Book your stay several months in advance.
Jowai becomes very crowded during the festival. If traveling by road from Shillong, allow extra time for potential traffic and congestion, especially on the main event day.
Many local establishments in Jowai may not accept UPI or card payments; it's advisable to carry sufficient cash for food, local transport, and purchases.
As a religious ceremony, respect local customs. Avoid touching sacred items or entering designated sacred areas. If photographing rituals, ask for permission first.
Restrictions
Women do not participate in the ritualistic dancing during the festival; their role is traditionally focused on offering sacrificial food to ancestral spirits.
