How to Visit the World’s Largest River Island

A place of unparalleled beauty and tranquility in India, Majuli Island is not surprisingly one of India’s top off the beaten track destinations. Step back in time where people lived off the land in tight agrarian communities. This is the world’s largest river island, nestled amidst the mighty Brahmaputra River.

From its sandy banks, Majuli Island spans over 420 square kilometers in size, although it is shrinking due to erosion. During the monsoon season, the island shrinks to less than half its size. It is important to heed ecological reports, as in 20 years this farming community may cease to exist entirely. Therefore, there’s no time to waste if you wish to see this highlight of the North East region.

Where is It?

Majuli Island is located in the state of Assam. Situated in the Brahmaputra River, it is 20 kilometers from the city of Jorhat and 326 kilometers from Guwahati. Consequently, Majuli Island is accessible only via a one-hour ferry ride from the tiny town of Nimati Ghat (about 12 kilometers from Jorhat).

There are two towns on the island, Kamalabari and Garamur, along with many little villages scattered throughout the landscape. Kamalabari is the first town you’ll encounter, about 3 kilometers from the ferry, with Garamur just a couple of kilometers further. Both towns have basic provisions available.

Getting There

From Jorhat, you’ll need to head to the ferry departure point at Nimati Ghat, located about 20 minutes from the town center. It’s economical (though not the most comfortable) to take the bus or shared auto rickshaw; otherwise, expect to pay between 500-1,200 rupees for a private auto rickshaw or taxi.

Ferries depart Nimati Ghat multiple times a day. According to the latest timetable, there are hourly departures at 8:30 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. From Kamalabari Ghat on Majuli Island, return departures occur at 7:00 a.m., 7:30 a.m., 8:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:00 p.m. It is noteworthy that the frequency reduces during the monsoon season, and services may be suspended in bad weather.

A ferry ride costs 15 rupees per person one way, with an additional 700 rupees if you wish to take your car. This service is government-operated, so do not expect luxury (the ferry is essentially a large wooden boat with benches). Having a car is advantageous due to limited transportation options on the island, although you can also rent a bicycle once you arrive. Based on the recommendations from Kipepeo, a reputable North East India Tour operator, we arranged a private vehicle starting at 2,000 rupees per day for both vehicle and driver.

If you plan to take a vehicle, it is advisable to call the day prior to ensure they reserve a spot for you; bookings are exclusively in Assamese, so seek assistance from a local. You can contact the Ferry Manager at +91 9957153671.

If you lack your own vehicle, you may hop onto one of the packed buses or shared auto rickshaws that arrive with the ferries and will transport you to Kamalabari or Garamur. However, these will not drop you exactly at your accommodation. Alternatively, private jeeps can be hired for a few hundred rupees; consider sharing with fellow travelers to reduce costs.

Jorhat is well-connected by road and train. Bus services regularly run to and from major towns in Assam, including Guwahati, Tezpur, and Sivasagar, as well as Kaziranga National Park. Additionally, there is a Shatabdi train service (12067) from Guwahati to Jorhat departing daily except Sundays at 6:30 a.m., arriving in Jorhat at 1:30 p.m. For those driving, the roads are fairly decent; the new highway from Guwahati allows for a six-hour journey.

Furthermore, there is a daily non-stop flight to Jorhat from Kolkata operated by IndiGo.

When to Visit

Majuli Island is accessible throughout the year, depending on weather conditions. However, the ideal time to visit is during winter, between November and March, when water levels recede and migratory birds flock to its shores. During the wet season (from July to September), much of the island is submerged, but visits are still possible, albeit with potential challenges in navigating.

What to See and Do

The majority of Majuli Island is inhabited by tribal and farming communities. Renting a bike allows you to enjoy picturesque views of rice paddies, small villages, and roads lined with bamboo archways. Along the roadside, you can observe villagers practicing the traditional craft of hand looming, a cultural hallmark of the region. Additionally, brightly colored textiles can be purchased at local roadside stalls.

For many Hindus, Majuli Island holds significance as a pilgrimage site. With 22 satras (Vishnu monasteries) scattered across the island, visitors can explore each or just select a few. Here, teachings, plays, and prayers are conducted, with activities centered around a large hall. Some of the older satras date back to the 1600s and remain functional, though they show signs of wear.

The prominent satras include Uttar Kamalabari (near Kamalabari town), Auni Ati (approximately 5 kilometers from Kamalabari), which is the oldest satra, and Garmur. Auni Ati also features a museum open for visitation from 9:30 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., and noon to 4:00 p.m. (entry fees are 10 rupees for Indians and 50 rupees for foreigners).

You should also visit Chamaguri Satra, a smaller family-run satra, to witness traditional masks being crafted, which depict characters from the Ramayana and Mahabharata used in local performances. However, note that theatrical plays and dances at the satras are typically scheduled for religious occasions and may not be open for general tourist attendance.

Majuli Island is renowned for bird watching, especially between November and March when the wetlands attract numerous migratory birds. Species that can be spotted include pelicans, storks, Siberian cranes, and whistling teals, along with wild geese and ducks traversing the wetlands. The island offers three primary bird watching areas: the southeast, the southwest, and the northern tip.

Travel Tips

Majuli Island hosts two significant festivals that visitors may attend.

The Majuli Mahotsav is a local festival celebrating the island, held in January in Garamur town. Here, visitors can mingle with locals, enjoy local dances, see tribal women preparing traditional dishes, and shop for local crafts. Look out for vibrant handloom textiles and bamboo products.

Ras Mahotsav is a Hindu festival occurring around November during the full moon of the Kartik month. It celebrates Lord Krishna’s life with three days of dancing. Consequently, this time attracts a multitude of pilgrims to the island, providing a unique opportunity to experience local culture.

Although the festivals are intriguing, the essence of visiting Majuli Island lies in reconnecting with nature and experiencing rural island life as it has been for generations. Thus, take your time and relish the serene pace of life here, as there is little need to hurry.

Where to Stay

Accommodation options on Majuli Island are limited, but thanks to Piran from Kipepeo, we connected with a friend who operates the best establishment on the island, La Maison de Ananda (the House of Happiness). This quaint place offers various accommodations, ranging from traditional bamboo huts on stilts to air-conditioned rooms in a new concrete building. The bamboo stilt huts, priced around 1,800 rupees per night for up to three people, provide basic yet comfortable amenities, including 24-hour bucket hot water.

The owner, Jyoti, and manager, Monjit, are accommodating and helpful. They offer scooter and bicycle rentals, and you can indulge in a delicious and filling tribal thali for dinner while watching the preparation unfold in the welcoming kitchen. The tribal thali is priced at 350 rupees per person, and local rice beer is also available.

While staying at some of the satras is possible, facilities are typically very basic, catering mainly to pilgrims.