Majuli

A Journey to the World’s Largest River Island

Nestled in the lap of the mighty Brahmaputra, Majuli is the world’s largest river island, an oasis of tranquility amidst the vast river waters. Hidden away in the northeastern frontier of India, this serene island, located in Assam, offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, culture, and spirituality. On November 28th, driven by a yearning to explore the unexplored, I embarked on a journey to this mystical land, where time seems to stand still.

Reaching Majuli: A Journey Through Nature

Getting to Majuli involves a journey that is just as memorable as the destination itself. You can reach Jorhat, the closest town to Majuli, by air, train, or bus. Jorhat Airport is just 24 kilometers away, while Dibrugarh and Guwahati airports are at distances of about 150 and 350 kilometers, respectively. From Jorhat, it’s a short drive to Neemati Ghat, where government ferries ply the Brahmaputra to Kamalabari Ghat, the gateway to Majuli.

I began my journey from my hometown, Guwahati, at the break of dawn. Traveling by road, I passed through the lush greenery of Kaziranga, stopping briefly at Hornbill Restaurant for an authentic Assamese lunch. The sight of the expansive Brahmaputra River at Neemati Ghat was breathtaking. I boarded the 4 PM ferry — the last one of the day — and watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

The ferry was bustling with life — locals, tourists, and vehicles all packed together, sharing stories of their own adventures. The sunset was spectacular; the water sparkled like molten gold, and I couldn’t help but capture a few shots to hold onto this magic forever.

The Heart of Majuli: Satras and Spirituality

Upon arrival at Kamalabari Ghat, I was warmly greeted by a friend’s relatives, who whisked me away to their home. The warmth and hospitality of the people of Majuli are unparalleled, making you feel at home the moment you step foot on this island.

The next day began with a visit to the famous Satras — the spiritual and cultural nerve centers of Majuli. The first stop was Auniati Satra, founded in 1653 by the Ahom King, Jayaddhaja Singha. This Satra is revered for its Vaishnavite practices and has been a center of learning, culture, and religious study for centuries. The daily prayer ritual, which has continued uninterrupted for over 350 years, fills the air with a sense of deep spirituality and peace.

I was fortunate to meet Mr. Nitul Dutta, a Bhakat (devotee) of Auniati Satra, who guided me through the intricate history and culture of the Satras. His knowledge and passion brought the stories of these sacred spaces to life, from the idol of Lord Krishna, brought from Puri, to the literary and cultural activities that make Auniati a vibrant hub of devotion.

We continued to explore other significant Satras, including the Sri Sri Natun and Purani Kamalabari Satras, Sri Sri Garmur Satra, and Sri Sri Dakhinpat Satra, each with its unique history, architecture, and spiritual significance. At the Samuguri Satra, I marveled at the exquisite art of mask-making, a craft that has been passed down through generations and is integral to the traditional performances of “bhaonas” — a form of storytelling through dance and drama.

Experiencing Majuli: Living in Harmony with Nature

My journey continued with visits to some of the most beautiful accommodations on the island. At Ygdrasill Bamboo Cottage, I experienced life in traditional bamboo huts on stilts, surrounded by water and wildlife. The tranquility of the place, combined with the friendliness of the people and the exquisite local cuisine, made it a truly immersive experience.

Next, I stopped at M E PO Okum, an eco-camp at Chitadar Chuk. This charming camp offers basic but comfortable bamboo cottages with clean facilities and an authentic village atmosphere. I was deeply touched by the commitment of the camp owner, whose dedication to promoting sustainable tourism is evident in every aspect of his service.

I also visited La Maison, one of the oldest and most popular places to stay in Majuli. Its rustic bamboo huts and the warm hospitality of its owner, Mr. Manjit, were delightful. Finally, I explored Dekachang, a new resort located right on the riverbank, where the rooms were spacious and offered stunning views of the Brahmaputra.

A Glimpse into Tribal Life

In the late afternoon, I ventured into the villages of the Deori and Mishing tribes. These communities, with their distinct cultures and traditions, have lived in harmony with nature for centuries. I bought some traditional handwoven textiles, a perfect souvenir of the island’s rich heritage. As the day ended, I returned to my friend’s relative’s house in Kamalabari, cherishing the kindness and warmth of the people who had welcomed me so wholeheartedly.

Leaving with Memories

As dawn broke on my last day in Majuli, I said my farewells with a heavy heart. This mystical island, with its unique blend of natural beauty, spiritual sanctity, and cultural richness, had left an indelible mark on my soul. I promised myself to return and, more importantly, to share the magic of Majuli with the world, encouraging both domestic and international travelers to experience this hidden gem of India.

My journey back to Guwahati was filled with reflection and a deep sense of gratitude. Majuli, with its whispering winds, the mighty river, and its vibrant community, had offered me more than just a trip — it had given me a story to tell, a piece of itself to carry with me forever.