Wangala Festival 2026: The 100 Drums Festival of the Garo Hills (Dates, Venue and How to Go)
Wangala, the Garo harvest festival known as the 100 Drums Festival: 2026 dates (12–14 November at Asanang near Tura), what happens, how to reach Tura and where to stay.
Wangala is the harvest festival of the Garo people of western Meghalaya, a thanksgiving to Saljong, the sun god, for the year's crops. Its best-known form is the 100 Drums Wangala Festival at Asanang, about 18 km from Tura, where troupes from across the Garo Hills dance in long lines to the beat of a hundred long drums. The 2026 edition runs from 12 to 14 November and marks 50 years of the festival in its present form.
Wangala at a glance
| Detail | Wangala 2026 |
|---|---|
| 2026 dates | 12–14 November |
| Venue | Asanang, about 18 km from Tura, West Garo Hills |
| Usual timing | November, after the harvest |
| Entry | Open to the public |
| Nearest base | Tura |
| Permit | None needed |
What happens at Wangala
In the villages, Wangala begins with rituals led by the nokma (village chief) and offerings of rice beer and the first harvest. At Asanang, the festival is a showcase: dozens of troupes take the ground in turn, the men beating long, narrow drums (dama) and blowing buffalo-horn trumpets, the women in colourful dakmanda wraps and beads moving in two parallel lines. Dancers wear headdresses of hornbill and other feathers. Between performances there are food stalls, crafts and, in the evenings, cultural programmes.
How to reach Tura
- From Guwahati: about 220 km and 5–6 hours by road, the easiest route. Guwahati airport has flights from all major cities.
- From Shillong: there is no short road west, so most people go back via Guwahati, a full day of 8–9 hours.
- From Tura to Asanang: about 30–40 minutes by taxi. Go early on the main day to find a good spot.
Where to stay
Tura has a small number of simple hotels and guest houses, and they fill up for Wangala, so book as early as you can. Expect clean, basic rooms rather than resorts.
What else to see in the Garo Hills
Stay a few extra days for Nokrek National Park, home of the wild orange; the Siju caves on the Simsang river; Balpakram National Park with its canyon; and the hidden gorge of Wari Chora. In early December Tura also hosts the Me·Gong music and culture festival.
Tips for visitors
- Carry cash: ATMs in Tura can run dry during the festival.
- November days are pleasant and sunny but the ground is dusty; bring a hat, sunscreen and water.
- Ask before photographing dancers up close, and stay behind the ropes.
See all the festivals of Meghalaya, or our Meghalaya tour packages if you'd like a private car and plan for the Garo Hills.
Frequently asked questions
When is the Wangala festival in 2026?
From 12 to 14 November 2026 at Asanang, near Tura in the West Garo Hills.
Why is Wangala called the 100 Drums Festival?
Because at the main celebration a hundred long drums are played together while the troupes dance.
Which tribe celebrates Wangala?
The Garo people of Meghalaya's Garo Hills, and Garo communities in neighbouring Assam.
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