Majuli,Assam: The Unknown Destination
Assam, located in the far-flung North-eastern part of India is a rich blend of soothing natural splendour, zealous culture and fascinating history. It is a land of mystery that boasts of offbeat tourist destinations, sacred river, unique landscape, sprawling tea gardens, formidable mountain ranges, wildlife reserves and spiritual ambience.
Far away from the cacophony of the modern world, this popular tourist place in Assam is an oasis of tranquillity. This island is an archaic world in itself where people can be seen living in bamboo huts, making things by hand and cooking on the fire. You will find an abundance of natural beauty, diverse wildlife and impeccable serenity. Situated in the heart of Assam is the Majuli Island Majuli is a lush green environment-friendly, a pristine and pollution-free freshwater island in the river Brahmaputra, just 20 km from the Jorhat city and located 347 Kms from Guwahati. Majuli means a land in the midst of two rivers. With a total area of 1250 sq. km, Majuli is the world’s largest river island and it attracts tourists from all over the world. Among one of the most surreal places in India, Majuli is also a strong contender for a place in UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. Mostly inhabited by tribals, the culture of Majuli is unique and quite interesting and is one of the key reasons why people love this place so much. It is also called the cultural capital of Assam. The festivals celebrated here are all joyous and vibrant. Also, Majuli is not a single island but a combination of cluster of islets formed and developed in the mid-river stream.
Majuli island once held a Guinness World Record for being the world’s biggest river island, but it’s slowly but surely being washed away by the fast-moving waters of the Brahmaputra river.
Things To Do In Majuli
The festival of Ali aye ligang is celebrated during mid February with great pomp and show. It is celebrated for five days starting from second Wednesday of February month till the next week. Various kinds of local dishes like purang apin (rice wrapped in special leaves), apong (rice beer) and cuisines made of pork, fish and chickens are served. Traditional mising dance Gumrag Soman is performed in every village worshiping the almighty Donyi polo (mother son and father moon) asking for good year of harvest.
1. Satras:
Devotees visit in hordes to Satras every year, especially during the Raasleela festival. Dakshinpat Satra is one of the popular Satra on the island. It was built in 1584 that features an ornate gateway etched with motifs, flowers and animals. It is not just the Satra that is captivating but also the countryside roads that lead to it are entrancing. Kamalabari Satra, Garmur Satra and Auniati Satra are some of the other beautiful Satras on the Island. Exploring these Satras is a soul-enriching experience. These are home to several cultural relics and artefacts like ancient weapons, literary manuscripts and jewellery. You will need a day or even more to visit these Satras. Each Satra has its own distinctive characteristics. Originally there were 64 Satras, but now only 31 are in use.
2. Tengapania :
Peter Andersen The golden structure of Tengapania is a popular attraction in Majuli. Away from the hustle-bustle of the city, you will find yourself in the midst of beautiful nature in Tengapania. The structure is built in the unique Ahom architectural style.
3. Majuli masks:
The traditional masks of Majuli island are quite famous. Hemchandra Goswami conducts workshops on the island known as Natun Samaguri Satra. If you want to learn more about the interesting process of making a variety of masks then it is a must visit the place. Depending on the complexity and design, the mask can take a couple of weeks to months in order to complete. Traditionally, the masks are used for theatrical performances and festivals.
4. Festivals In Majuli :
Arshadur Rahman Sumantbarooah Raas Leela Festival is celebrated zealously in the month of November. Thousands of people visit the Satra to witness this much-awaited festival. Raas Leela is a festival of music, dance and theatre. Ali aye Ligang is yet another popular celebration where local beverages and food are served.
5. Drink the local rice beer:
You can find rice beer all over the northeast, and Majuli is no exception. This homemade concoction is delicious and cheap, and one of the best ways to befriend the locals is to hang out with for a night of drinking and chatting.
6. Visit local craftsmen and women:
Throughout the island, you can find craftsmen and women making all sorts of handicrafts. From the pottery mentioned above to beautiful woven saris and even boats. If you like handicrafts, Majuli island is a perfect place to visit. If you want to know more about the local craftspeople, talk to Beda, who runs a local NGO to help Majuli’s villagers find new work.
7. Cycle around countryside:
Majuli island is perfect for cycling. The slow pace of life and relatively empty roads, the lush countryside, the waterways, and the wildlife you might encounter make Majuli a great spot to great spot to grab a bike and explore to your heart’s content.
8. Bird Watching:
Bird watching is a certainly a must thing to do in Majuli Island. The island is home to numerous locals and migratory birds that can be seen during the winter time. Some feather creatures that you can expect to see are storks, pelicans, whistling teals and Siberian cranes. Ducks and wild geese are the most common birds that can be seen traversing the wetlands and roads.
Best time to visit Majuli
The best time to visit Majuli island is generally between October and March. This is generally considered the dry season, minimizing the risk of getting stuck in a freak storm that floods the island.The monsoon season between April and July is best avoided. Parts of the island flood, houses are sometimes taken away by the rushing water, and sandbanks might disappear into the river.
How to get to Majuli river island in Assam
Your best bet is to start from Guwahati, the capital city of Assam. From there, you’ll need to catch a bus or private transport to Jorhat, another town close to the Brahmaputra’s banks.
