Majuli - The largest riverine Island

It is the hub of the Assamese neo-Vaishnavite culture. For its unique culture and festivities, it is known as the cultural capital of Assam since the 16th century. Naghamar is its main village to host important festivals, prayers, and events. It will help you learn about vaishnavite philosophy.

There are as many as 22 Satras. Sankardeva, the father of Assamese culture, built the first Satra.

Brahmaputra River and the Kherkutia Xuti form the island. Subansiri River in the north flows into Kherkutia Xuti, which is an anabranch of Brahmputra. The course change by the Brahmaputra and its tributaries is the reason for the formation of the island.

Raas is the main festival of Majuli with a dance performance to showcase the life events of Lord Krishna. The Raas Purnima falls in the Kartik month. Cultural troupes arrive at the island during the Majuli festival for special occasions.

The Paal Naam at the end of autumn and Bathow Puja are other festivities on Lord Shiva.

Agriculture is the main economic activity in the town. Local tribes grow 100 different varieties of rice. Locals eat Komal Saul(rice) as breakfast, and Bora Saul(brown rice) is the main ingredient for making Pitha(traditional cake).

Fishing, boat-making, handloom, and pottery are other sources of livelihood. Pottery and face masks are the souvenirs to buy from Majuli Island.

Majuli island tourism offers plenty of places for tourists to explore on the island.

• Kamlabari Satra

Kamlabari Satra is famous for its architecture, art, literature, and culture. Intricate designs beautify the walls and ceilings of this tourist place, and ceilings exhibit deities' images. Visitors learn more about the culture and rich historical past of Assam.

• Dakhinpat Satra

Vamsi Gopal built the historical monument of Dakhinpat Satra in 1584. Paintings and sculptures on the walls highlight this touristic place's aesthetic architecture, and the Rasotsava festival reflects the heritage and rich culture of Assam.

• Auniati Satra

Niranjan Pathakdeva founded Auniati Satra to treasure a rich collection of artifacts, jewelry, and utensils. Exquisite architecture with lion idols on the gateway is the main attraction of this historical building. Auniati Satra is the hub of Satriaya and Vaishnavism culture in Assam. You can see Satriya dances and songs.

• Tengapania

The structure of Tengapania is akin to that of the golden temple. Pointed pillars and statues are the embodiment of Ahom architecture. This green picnic spot is located near the Brahmaputra river to spend quality time.

• Garmur

Garmur is a religious hub of Vaishnavite tradition. Intricate pillars prop up the roof of the edifice. You will find literature and artifacts on the Vaishnavite practice to learn more about Assamese culture.

How to Reach Majuli Island

Jorhat is 20 kilometers from Majuli Island. From Jorhat, you have to board a private bus to reach Kamlabari Ghat and Neemati Ghat for a ferry ride. Ferry timings are 10 am and 3 pm from these jetties.

• Air: Jorhat Airport at Rowriah is around 7 kilometers from the Jorhat city. Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi is the international airport at Guwahati, about 323 kilometers from Jorhat.
• Train: Jorhat is the nearest railhead to Majuli Island. It is connected to Guwahati and other parts of the train network.
• Road: Regular state and private buses ply to Jorhat from Guwahati and other places. At Jorhat, go to Kamlabari Ghat or Neemati Ghat and take a ferry ride to reach the island in an hour.

Address

Majuli, near Jorhat town in Assam

Timings

24 hours

Tickets

Free Entry

Best time to visit

The island celebrates Raas Leela festival during mid-November for three days. Its vibrant cultural life makes it the 'cultural capital of Assam' since the 16th century. The period between October and December is the best time to experience Majuli Island. You can plan your holiday and be part of the festivities here.

Things to Do

You can be part of numerous activities to make the most of your holidays on Majuli Island.

Village Life

Farming is the mainstay on the island, and tribes form the leading community. You can explore distinct tribal cultures, customs, practices, and traditions. Be witness to the old art of hand-looming.

Pilgrimage

The island is home to 22 Satras, which portrays Assamese culture and traditions. You can watch play and prayers at these Vaishnavite institutional centers that impart knowledge as well.
Chamaguir is the main Satra, and some old satras date back to the 17th century. Local artisans make masks on the characters of Ramayana and Mahabharata. Thus, Majuli is an ideal destination for pilgrimage.

Bird Watching

Winter season witness the arrival of migratory birds. So many local birds also throng to the island. Siberian cranes, whistling teals, pelicans, and storks are the feather creatures you can spot on Majuli Island.

Roads and wetlands are dotted with wild geese and ducks all around. Bird watching is a must-do activity on Island.