In the North East of Assam, there is the most gorgeous river island called the Majuli. It is formed by the KherkutiaXuti combined with the Subansiri river in the north and the great Brahmaputra in the south. Earlier Majuli used to cover an area of 1255 sq km but at present because of soil erosion, it has come down to 876 sq km.
This island has lush green landscape, with a high diversity of flora and fauna. Because of its location, Majuli not only a wetland but also has high biodiversity. Here you can witness some rare trees, animals and birds. You can find the one- horned Rhino and other migratory birds.
According to recent sites, the island is said to disappear soon. It is a 400 year old island and because of constant land erosion, there is reduction in land mass. According to experts, if this doesn’t stop then within a few decades this place will not exist.
Regardless of this fact, Majuli is like heaven on earth. The inhabitants of this small island lead a very simple life. They grow their own vegetables. At times they also find some wild edible plant that can only be found here. Locals here have small wooden boats if they want to go fishing or if they want to reach the nearest commercial town called Kamalabari.
This stunning island is also known as the cultural capital. The island is known for its Satras. It is basically a socio- religious centre. Majuli has the first Satra to ever be built. Originally there were 65 Satras but slowly they dropped down to 22.They have also treasured the arts and crafts of this state. One of the most enlightening Satra is the Dakhinpat. It is place where the locals have preserved the Assamese culture and tradition for ages. Another Satra, known as the Garmur displays weapons that were used in the older times.
In mid of November, the Garmur Satra hosts the Rasleela festival. At this time, the entire island has this different atmosphere. People from all around the world come to witness this festival. The celebration is spread across three days of traditional dancing, singing and eating the authentic Assamese cuisine. Locals show the eternal love story Lord Krishna and Radha. There are many more festivals that are celebrated on this island. They have the Ali-ai-ligang, which symbolizes the beginning of the paddy sowing season. Then there is the tribal festival called the Bathow puja,this is to worship Lord Shiva. As the autumn comes to an end, people here have a huge fair called the Paal Naam which takes place in the Auniati Satra. This is where the famous Apsara dance is performed.
On your visit here, you must try the local food. A typical Assamese cuisine includes Khar, Tenga, Laksa and different variety of rice. Locals also say that you must have the Saul cereal and the pitha.
The best time to visit this amazing island is between the months of January to March and then September to December. At these times the weather is also amazing.
This picturesque island is approximately 200kms from Guwahati. You can reach Majuliby taking a bus from the nearest town that is Jorhat and is 20kms away. This bus will take you to the Neamati Steamer Ghat, and further form here you can take the ferry to Majuli.
The beauty of this island cannot be described in words. Hence, you should definitely go and visit this place, while you still have a chance.
