Majuli Island

A Magnificent Visit to The World's Largest Riverine Delta Majuli, Assam

• Majuli the Heritage of Assam- Majuli, the largest river island in the world, is endowed with unmatched beauty and a vibrant culture that will astound you when you arrive for the first time. Tucked away from the din of contemporary life, this well-liked tourist destination in Assam is a peaceful haven. People can be seen living in bamboo huts, crafting goods by hand, and cooking over a fire on this island, which is a world lost in time. There is a wealth of stunning natural scenery, a wide variety of fauna, and complete tranquillity. At this must-see Assamese tourist destination, the locals are amiable and welcoming, and you can see them there sporting vibrant outfits and intricately made masks. Majuli Island has also been one of the most important cultural centers of Assam since the 16th century. Majuli has been listed as a potential World Heritage Site by UNESCO since 2004. The island itself extends for a length of about 80 km and for about 10-15 km north to south direction with a total area of about 875 Sq km. It is 85 -- 90 m above the mean sea level. It is formed in that stretch of the river where the largest number of tributaries drains out and forms their deltas on the Northern and Southern banks. Tribal groups such the Musings, Deoris, and Sonowal Kacharis live on the Island. Due to frequent floods, causing erosion and siltation, Majuli island is susceptible to climate change. Additionally, a major issue with water-related vector- borne diseases is contributing to the negative effects of climate change on the health and well-being of the populace.
• Rich biodiversity of Majuli- Majuli is an enigmatic wildlife and plant paradise. Majuli takes great pride in the quantity of wetlands that attract a vast influx of migratory birds. Majuli is home to over 186 different species of birds, many of which are migratory and include the critically endangered stork. This may be the reason Majuli has been designated as one of India's Important Bird Areas (IBAs). This location is good for seeing both domestic and migratory birds, such as storks, kingfishers, egrets, purple moorhens, and white-breasted waterhens. Other than the birds Majuli is the home of at least ten different varieties of turtles. This important riverine delta has more than 150 wetlands or beels, more than 20 mammals, nearly 10 amphibians and more than a hundred verities of local fish, including 65 verities of ornamental fishes. Majuli receives an abundance of rainfall and humidity, facilitating the development of both evergreen and deciduous forests. The major bird-watching sites of Majuli are – Sakuli bheel, Borhula Pathar, Doriya Dubi, Bhereki Bheel, Dowkpara, Borbilla, Duboritoli, Rambolia etc.
• The unique culture and society to learn- The principles of Neo-Vaishnavism, the monasteries in Majuli, known as Satras, and numerous villages serve as the hubs for the development of vibrant Assamese classical dance and music, known as Satriya Nritya and geet, as well as theatrical productions, art, and craft. The historical property of the Satras - the antiques, manuscripts, relics etc. and its religious and cultural activities are a treat for the tourists and researchers alike. There is ample scope of interacting with the locals and to know their rich culture and heritage.
• The mask artists of Majuli- Majuli is also famous for masks. None of the masks on exhibit are for sale because there is such a high demand for these masks in theater art and street plays. They are all only produced on demand and sent directly to the designated destination. The materials to make a mask – clay and bamboo – are provided by the Brahmaputra. The continued erosion of land in Majuli has made it harder to source the clay required for mask-making and made the situation vulnerable for the artists.
• Plan Your tour- Majuli is inviting you to unravel its hidden natural treasures and embark on a journey that goes beyond the ordinary. Whether you seek the solace of vibrant hills, or you want to witness the most magnificent sunset vistas through the vast Brahmaputra that will leave you stunned, or the cultural richness intertwined with nature, Majuli promises an enriching experience for the knowledge-seeking traveller.