Majuli Travel Guide

Visit Majuli, India's largest river island. This comprehensive travel guide offers a list of places to visit, what to do in Majuli, food and drinks, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Majuli

Majuli is India’s largest river island located in Upper Assam, and is a hidden gem nestled between the Brahmaputra River and its tributaries. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, and unique festivals. Majuli offers a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life and is a perfect destination for nature lovers who want to witness the unspoiled beauty of Assam.

List of Places to Visit in Majuli

Majuli offers several attractions that cater to people with different interests. Here are some of the most popular places to visit in Majuli:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Satras: The Satras are the Vaishnavite monasteries of Assam, each famous for their unique architecture and religious practices. The most popular Satras in Majuli are Kamalabari Satra, Auniati Satra, and Dakhinpat Satra. Visitors can witness the daily prayers and performances of the monks.

  • Garmur Satra: This Satra is home to a museum that showcases the traditional masks, utensils, and clothing of Assam. The museum also displays handicrafts made by the Satra artisans.

  • Tengapania: Tengapania is a village that is famous for its pottery. Visitors can witness the making of pottery by the locals and also buy handmade pottery as souvenirs.

Natural Attractions of Majuli: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Dibru-Saikhowa National Park: This national park is located near Majuli and is known for its diverse flora and fauna. Visitors can take a jeep or elephant safari to witness wild animals like tigers, elephants, and water buffalos in their natural habitat.

  • Bhakat Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary: The sanctuary is a birdwatcher’s paradise as it hosts hundreds of different species of birds.

  • Kamalabari Satra Bamboo Grove Cottage: The Bamboo Grove Cottage is a serene getaway in the heart of nature. Visitors can relax and rejuvenate in the midst of dense bamboo forests.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Majuli

Majuli is ideal for hiking and biking enthusiasts as it has several scenic routes. Some popular routes are:

  • Kamalabari-Bengenaati Trek: This trek starts from Kamalabari Satra and ends at Bengenaati Village. It is a scenic trek that showcases the vibrant culture and natural beauty of Majuli.

  • Bakori-Bhakat Chapori Trek: This trek starts from Bakori and is a five-day trek that leads to the Bhakat Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary. The trek offers beautiful scenery and is ideal for avid hikers.

Best Things to Do in Majuli: Activities and Tours

  • Auniati Satra Mask-Making Workshop: Visitors can attend a mask-making workshop at Auniati Satra and learn about the Vaishnavite traditions of Assam. The masks made by the visitors can be taken home as souvenirs.

  • Bhokua Fishing: Visitors can go Bhokua fishing and experience the local way of catching fish.

  • Cooking Class at a Homestay: Visitors can attend a cooking class at a homestay and learn to cook authentic Assamese dishes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Majuli

Here is a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Majuli:

Day Activity
1 Visit Kamalabari and Auniati Satras
2 Trek to the Tengapania Village and visit the Subansiri River
3 Visit Bhakat Chapori Wildlife Sanctuary
4 Explore Garmur Satra and take part in the mask-making workshop
5 Visit Samaguri Beel and witness the traditional tribal dance
6 Attend a cooking class at a homestay
7 Relax at the Bamboo Grove Cottage

Food and Drink Scene of Majuli

Majuli is renowned for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of local and traditional flavors.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Misa Mach Poora: It is grilled fish prepared in banana leaf and is a local delicacy.

  • Khar: It is a signature Assamese dish made with a mixture of vegetables and a unique ingredient called khar, made from the ashes of banana leaves.

  • Pitha: It is a dessert made from rice, jaggery, and coconut and is served during festivals.

Local Beverages

  • Apong: It is a traditional beer made from rice, and it is a must-try when in Majuli.

  • Cha: Assam is famous for its tea, and visitors must try the local tea found in the local tea gardens.

Where to Stay in Majuli: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Majuli offers several lodging options for visitors, ranging from luxurious hotels to cozy homestays. Here are some of the most popular options:

  • La Maison de Ananda: This hotel offers luxurious amenities such as air-conditioned rooms, an outdoor pool, and a fitness center.

  • Majuli Bamboo Resort: The resort offers eco-friendly bamboo cottages overlooking the Brahmaputra River and is an ideal place to relax and enjoy the peaceful scenery.

  • Majuli Cultural Stay: This homestay offers visitors an insight into the local life and culture of Majuli. Visitors can stay with a local family and learn about the traditional customs and practices of Assam.

What to Buy in Majuli: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Pottery: Majuli is famous for its traditional pottery, and visitors can buy handmade pottery as souvenirs.

  • Masks: Visitors can buy masks made by the artisans of Auniati Satra as a unique memento.

  • Traditional Clothes: Visitors can buy traditional Assamese clothes like the mekhela chador and gamosa as souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Majuli

Majuli is home to the Vaishnavite monasteries of Assam, and cultural festivals are celebrated in the Satras throughout the year. Visitors should dress conservatively while visiting the Satras and remove their shoes before entering the temples. The locals of Majuli are warm and friendly towards tourists and visitors should be respectful of their culture and customs.

Best Time to Visit Majuli

The best time to visit Majuli is from October to March when the weather is mild and pleasant. The monsoon season from April to September brings heavy rainfall and flooding; therefore, it is not a recommended time to visit Majuli.

Do’s and Don’ts of Majuli

Do:

  • Dress conservatively while visiting the Satras.

  • Remove shoes before entering the Satra temples.

  • Try the local food and drink.

Don’t:

  • Do not litter as Majuli is eco-sensitive.

  • Do not smoke in public areas.

  • Do not take pictures without permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in Majuli

Majuli is a safe destination for travelers, and there are minimal instances of crime reported. Visitors should take the usual precautions while traveling, such as keeping valuables safe and being aware of their surroundings.

Health in Majuli

Visitors should take the necessary precautions when traveling to Majuli and consult their doctor before the trip. Mosquitoes are prevalent in the area, and visitors should take measures to avoid mosquito bites to prevent diseases like Malaria and Dengue fever.

Getting to Majuli: Transportation Options and Logistics

Majuli is accessible via both water and air transport.

Airports Near Majuli

The nearest airport to Majuli is Jorhat Airport, which is around 20 km from Neematighat, the main ferry point to Majuli.

Bus Stations Near Majuli

The nearest Bus Station is in Jorhat, which is connected to all major cities in Assam.

Other Options

Visitors can take a ferry from Neematighat to reach Majuli. Ferries operate regularly every day and are a popular way to reach the island.

How to Get Around in Majuli

Bicycles, motorcycles, and taxis are available for rent in Majuli. Bicycles are the most popular way to explore the island as the roads are flat and traffic-free, making it an ideal way to experience the natural beauty of Majuli.

Where to Go Next from Majuli: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Kaziranga National Park: The national park is around 150 km from Majuli and is home to the One-Horned Rhinoceros.

  • Sivasagar: It is a historical town located around 80 km from Majuli and is renowned for its historical monuments like Rang Ghar and Talatal Ghar.

  • Shillong: Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, is around 350 km from Majuli and is known for its scenic beauty and colonial architecture.

Conclusion

Majuli is a must-visit destination for those who want to witness the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Assam. The island offers something for everyone, from relaxing retreats to outdoor adventures, and visitors can enjoy the warm hospitality of the locals while experiencing the unique culture and customs of Assam.

A fisherman out to catch fish next to Majuli. A fisherman out to catch fish next to Majuli. Dakhinpat Xatra Dakhinpat Xatra Raas leela at Majuli Raas leela at Majuli