Majuli is the largest river island in
the world and is located on the Brahmaputra river. Majuli
is in Jorhat district of Assam. The place is the nerve centre
of Assamese Vaishnavite culture.
The attraction of seeing the largest human
inhabitant River Island in the world along with an opportunity
to see the colourful and rich cultural tradition of the people
is the chief attraction of Majuli island.
Majuli island is located 20 kms from the
Jorhat town and 330 km from Guwahati, the capital of Assam.
The island connects to the rest of the country through Jorhat.
The Rowriah Airport of Jorhat and the Jorhat rail station
are the nearest airport and rail head. Jorhat is also well
connected by road. Since Majuli is an island, the visitor
has to use a ferry to reach the island. There are three main
ferry routes – Nimatighat near Jorhat, Dhokuakhana from Dhemaji
and Luit-Khabolughat from North Lakhimpur.
The Majuli island has one hundred and forty
four villages with a population of 150,000 and a population
density of 300 individuals per square km. Locals at the island
mostly comprise of tribal.
Local economy is mainly dependent on agriculture.
The rich soil produces a variety of rice such as Komal Saul,
Bora Saul etc. Handloom is also a common occupation. Majuli
is an ecological hotspot and is home for a wide variety of
flora and fauna. Apart from a large number of resident avifauna,
many migratory birds from Himalaya and beyond visit here during
the winter months. Greater Adjutant Stork , Pelican, Siberian
Crane and the Whistling Teal are among some of the more common
varieties of birds found here.
The Majuli island till the 16th century
was a narrow strip till a number of earthquakes and flood
gave it its present form. Majuli has played a critical role
as the cultural center of Assam. The satras (monks) set up
preserve antiques like weapons, utensils, jewelry and other
items of cultural significance. The local handloom has received
internationally fame due to its intricate design. Every year
a three day long Raas festival is organized at Majuli which
depicts the life of lord Krishna. People from all over Assam
and beyond assemble here during the Raas festival. |
