Majuli gives visitors a one-of-a-kind holiday experience that is not only educational but also memorable. The area is characterised by its verdant greenery, colourful culture, and peaceful scenery. There is something for every person to do in Majuli, whether it is bird watching, exploring the ancient Satras, or immersing yourself in the culture of the locals. If you want to make your vacation on this island an experience you will never forget, let's explore some of the most incredible Places To Visit In Majuli.
Exploring Satras
It is well known that Majuli is home to a number of Satras, which are Vaishnavite monasteries that were founded in the 15th century by the revered saint Srimanta Sankardeva. Not only are these Satras places of worship, but they are also centres of artistic expression, cultural activities, and educational institutions. Everyone who has an interest in Majuli should make it a point to visit each of the satras because each one has its own special appeal and importance. Providing a look into the artistic and spiritual past of Assam, the satras are an essential component of the cultural fabric of the island. The rich history that has been maintained in these monastic institutions can be explored by visitors, who can additionally observe traditional dance performances and listen to music that is dedicated to devotion.
Kamalabari Satra
It is widely acknowledged that the Kamalabari Satra is among the most prominent Satras in Majuli. It was founded in the sixteenth century and has since become a centre for the study of art, culture, literature, and classical disciplines. Visitors get the opportunity to see mesmerising performances of Sattriya dance, which is a classical dance style that originates from Assam. The monks who live here are skilled in a variety of ancient art forms. The Satra also serves as the location of a museum that displays historical artefacts, manuscripts, and traditional clothing. This museum provides visitors with an insight into the extensive cultural legacy of Majuli. Kamalabari Satra is an ideal location for meditation and introspection due to its peaceful atmosphere and the spiritual atmosphere that permeates the space.
It is separated into two parts, the “Sri Sri Natun Kamalabari Satra” and the “Sri Sri Uttar Kamalabari Satra”. The Natun Kamalabari Satra which was founded by Badala Padma Ata, is rich with various classical dance forms like Mati Akhara, Rajagharia Chali Nritya, Ankia Bhaona and among others. On the other hand, Uttar Kamalabari Satra, also established by Badala Padma Ata, has a specialisation in the performing arts such as Ankia Bhaona and Sattriya Nritya. Many world renowned artists who have staged performances both locally and internationally have been produced by both Satras, thus depicting Majuli’s cultural wealth.
Visit Garmur Satra
Another important name in Majuli is Garmur Satra, which is well known for its religious and cultural assistance. Jayaharideva established this Satra in 1656 that has become a preserve of the Vaishnavite tradition. Specifically, the Rasleela performances are among its popular events that use dances and dramas to portray Lord Krishna’s life on stage. The Ras Mahotsav is the time when these performances take place and it attracts people from different corners of the world who are devotees or tourists respectively. Furthermore, there are several ancient manuscripts, religious texts, old books and collections of traditional musical instruments found here which makes this place a storehouse of Assamese culture. Therefore, Garmur Satra possesses an environment such as a peaceful ambience with spiritual feelings where one can engage oneself.
What makes Garmur Satra stand out from other Satras is that both men and women can participate in its social activities which are very rare among others. This particular approach has made Garmur Satra a dynamic centre for cultural integration and education through which knowledge about different cultures is shared between individuals belonging to different regions. For instance, at this Satra there are many valuable things, including silver ornaments and ivory utensils, cartwheels for elephants, Umber statues, etc., all of them giving a more vivid view into the history of religion & culture in the place they were found. It also provides meditation spaces for visitors where quiet reflection may occur as it remains as clean as ever.
Visit Auniati Satra
Auniati Satra was established in 1653 by Niranjan Pathakdeva and is one of the oldest and most venerated Satras of Majuli. It is well-known for its uncompromising loyalty to Vaishnavism principles and practices. The Satra serves as a site for spiritual teachings or talks, cultural programs and social welfare activities. In the temple, there is a museum which holds an extensive collection of ancient artefacts such as old masks, musical instruments and manuscripts. Sattriya dance, performed during different occasions and events by monks from this place of worship, is also known all over the country as well. Those who like peace and tranquillity should visit Auniati Satra.
Auniati Satra is renowned for “Paalnaam” and “Apsara dance”. Paalnaam is a five-day recital session that brings together worshippers from across Assam state. Monks at the monastery perform an aesthetically pleasing dance called Apsara that people love to watch. All three Bihus, Krishna Janmashtami and Raas Leela Mahotsav are some of the holidays that are marked at this religious centre. They present an opportunity for tourists to see Majuli’s rich traditions in action over time while visiting various festivals celebrated here annually by devotees throughout out years not only gives visitors a chance to see these customs but also makes them active participants in this process.
The museum inside has numerous historical artefacts, such as old utensils used by Assamese people in those days, along with other items like jewellery, handicrafts, etc., which are representative of the rich culture on this island.
Visit Dakhinpat Satra
The Dakhinpat Satra, one of the most popular visiting Satras in Majuli, is famous for its architectural beauty and cultural importance. One of Srimanta Sankaradeva’s disciples, Banamalidev, built it as a religious and cultural centre. During the Ras Mahotsav in November, there are Rasleela performances an this Satra.
Dakhinpat Satra is famous for the “Doul Utsav”, an annual festival that celebrates Lord Krishna’s stories. Every year, many tourists flock to Dakhinpat Satra to join in these vibrant celebrations and take part in the various religious activities that mark the occasion. Assam’s artistic heritage is displayed through intricate carvings and motifs in Satra’s architecture. Additionally, it has a museum where ancient manuscripts, holy scriptures, plus traditional musical instruments, among other valuables, are conserved there. Dakhinpat Satra offers serene surroundings and a spiritual ambience needed by those searching for a greater connection with their spirituality.
Visit Tengapania
Tengapania, which is a captivating place located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. It is famous for its fabulous natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. This lovely place is surrounded by Machkhoa, Dhakuakhana and the Disangmukh in all directions and is filled with green trees surrounding it and offers wonderful panoramas of the river as well as other beautiful parts of the landscape. Tengapania gives suitable environments for picnics, nature walks and photography. Also, this site has historical importance since it was once a major trading centre during the Ahom dynasty period. Even nowadays, we can still see ruins of an old walled-in market town which adds to its attractiveness.
Additionally, there is a golden temple in Tengapania, which exemplifies the style of Ahom architecture. The splendid figures and poles found in this temple are captivating hence attracting people who are interested in history and architecture alike. The calm atmosphere, along with scenic views overlooking the Brahmaputra River, make it perfect for relaxation and having some time out at Tengapania.
Visit Mishing Village
Mishing Village is a unique village where you can get to explore the culture and traditions of the Mishing tribe, one of the indigenous communities in Assam. The village has renowned traditional stilt houses, which are built in anticipation of the yearly floods from the Brahmaputra River. Known for their hospitality, visitors can see how Mishing people live, including sampling their traditional food, listening to their music and watching them dance, among other activities. Moreover, the village is known for its handlooms, particularly the famous Mishing shawls and Mekhela Chadors made by skilful artisans with colours obtained naturally. A visit Mishing Village offers an insight into the typical lifestyle and cultural wealth of this community.
The tribe is known for its vibrant festivals like “Ali-Ai-Ligang”, which are celebrated with great pomp and joy. Traditional dances as well as music are some of the events that will be witnessed by travellers during this festive season, depicting the rich heritage of Mishing society. Moreover, it also allows tourists to take part in normal activities like fishing, weaving or farming. Hand-woven artefacts produced by Mishing people have intricate patterns which make them quite popular due to their detailedness and bright colours used while making them. Through a visit to this village, one gets a real taste of what life was meant for the Mishing people as per their cultural practices.
Visit Molai Forest
Molai Forest is a man-made forest which covers 1,360 acres on the banks of the Brahmaputra River. Named after Jadav ‘Molai’ Payeng, an environmentalist who planted and nurtured it single-handedly for over three decades. This forest hosts many different species of flora and fauna, including elephants, deer and various types of birds. In relation to seeing a person’s tremendous endeavour in building up an entire ecosystem, Molai forest becomes a unique place worth visiting. It is also perfect for nature walks, bird watching and photography with its dense shade and quiet atmosphere.
The Molai forest represents what one individual can do in conservation efforts. Payeng’s commitment and never-say-die attitude have turned a hitherto barren land into a living, breathing woodland. Visitors are provided with guided tours around Molai Forest to learn more about its formation process. The calm atmosphere combined with dense undergrowth within Molai Forest makes it an ideal location for relaxation.
Bird Watching in Majuli
With its wide range of avian species, Majuli is a haven for birdwatchers. Majuli is a place where bird’s lives are richly varied because the island has fertile floodplains and productive wetlands that attract different types of birds, making it the best place for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts. It has more than 260 species of birds including over 90 migratory ones coming from places such as Tibet and Siberia each year. Spot-billed pelicans, slender billed vultures, greater adjutant storks and Siberian cranes are examples of well-known bird species.
Among the best birding sites on this island are Sakuli Beel near Kamalabari, Magurmari Beel at Dakhinpaat Satra, Verki Beel also near Kamalabari, Chakoli Beel and Rambolia in Duboritoli for their abundant presence of varied kinds of birds within an attractive setting. Between November and March is the ideal time to go bird watching in Majuli because it is when migratory birds settle there with good weather conditions prevailing. It is incomparable for somebody who likes seeing birds like me to visit such a site which has a peculiar ecosystem of the world in addition to its unique religious culture combined with beautiful landscape views. Visit Kaziranga National Park
