Sunday, March 16, 2014

Majuli Island of Assam, the Largest River Island in the World




Majuli Island, a hidden jewel of Assam is not known many people. It is the world’s largest river island and is located in the Brahmaputra River and is considered as the cultural capital of Assam from the early times of 16th century. 


We decided to visit this place in the month of May, which is not an appropriate time because it is the commencement of monsoon season at this place. Due to this reason the Kaziranga National Park was shut but we could spot some rhinos and deer from the National Highway 37 that passes through this park. We had not much knowledge about Majuli and were very eager to explore the place. 

Attractions and Things to Do
As we had not much knowledge of the place, at first we were quite satisfied with relaxing in the pleasant atmosphere of Majuli and riding on our hired bikes along the sandy dirt roads, which had green paddy fields on the either side. But after speaking to some natives of the place we came to know that Majuli has 22 Satras or Hindu Monasteries that are dedicated to the worship of Lord Vishnu. Among the 22 Satras, Auniati and Uttar Kamlabari are the renowned ones.

 Due to the annual floods and constant land erosion, the present day Majuli is only a fraction of its original size that stretched over an area of about 1,256 sq. km. This has prompted to shift many of the Sattras to shift their base to Assam’s mainland. 

Fishing is another popular activity of this place. Located at a distance of about 2km before Naminighat, one can stop at Green View Resort, to catch some dish from a hole in the floor. Majuli is also popular as a bird watcher’s paradise, as it is home to several native and migratory species of birds like pelican, greater adjutant stork and the whistling teal.

A general walk through the villages of Majuli can be quite interesting as to experience the hospitality of the local people and their simple way of living. These people are mainly dependant on fishing, agriculture and weaving. Some of the other major activities of the native people worth admiring are pottery, dairy farming, boat making and handloom. The weaving is especially outstanding of this place, as the natives make use of a whole range of colors in cotton and silk, which are found only in Assam.

The place is also famous for holding festivals like Raseela, Ali-ai-ligang, Bathow Puja and Paal Naam. Among these Ali-ai-ligang is the most prominent one as it is celebrated by the Mishing tribe, especially with the commencement of the Ahu paddy cultivation. The festival is celebrated between the months of February or March and is organized to thank Mother Nature for the production of ahu paddy.

Getting to the island is quite easy but getting on and off of the island can be bit of a problem. The locals of this island hardly speak English or Hindi, so you may have trouble in communicating with them. The population of Majuli mainly comprises of tribal people. Several ferries are available from Naminighat to different ghats on Majuli.

 It is very essential to catch the right ferry. Due to the communication problem, we rode on a wrong ferry and then had to ride an additional distance of 20 odd km to Gramaur. In order to reach Lakhimpur, we got off on the northern bank and then from there we had to cross two rivers. The first river was a smaller one than the next, which had to be crossed by a smaller boat. 

Climate
As Majuli is a subtropical island, it experiences humid climate all around the year. The humidity of this place is at its highest during the summer months of March, April and May. The place also experiences heavy rainfall during the monsoon season from May to October. During winters the place experiences pleasant climate with the temperature ranging from 10 to 15 degree Celsius, from November to February. 

Food
Garamur in the island is dotted with a number of snack shops that offer regular dal rice, chowmein etc.  If you are staying at la Maison De Ananda, the caretaker will provide you a local Mishing Thali which is the staple food of the Mishing tribe who migrated to this island from Arunachal Pradesh. This thali includes rice, fried fish slices, fish curry, whole fired fish, fish pickle and vegetable. After taking the food, do not forget to try some local Chang or rice wine.

Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit the island is from October to March.
How to Reach
By Road and Boat: The Island is about 12 km north of Jorhat, which is about 310 km towards east from Guwahati city. The island can be reached through ferry from Namini ghat, which is about 12 km ride from Jorhat. The ferry rides from this ghat will take you to Kamlabari Ghat on Majuli. Kamlabari ghat is another 8-10 km away from Garamur, the main village on the island. Buses are available from the ferry drop to Garamur.

By Air: The nearest airport to this island is Rowriah airport in Jorhat. It operates regular flights from Kolkata, Guwahati and Shillong.  
By Rail: The nearest railway station to this island is in Jorhat and is well connected with Guwahati by rail.

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