Coursing through the current of the mighty Brahmaputra on a swift little Ferryboat in Assam, Vibhor Yadav spots the ever shifting sandbanks of the world’s largest river island - Majuli. Within minutes, he knew this was a shore he was truly fortunate to set his feet upon. In October, Yadav was lucky enough to travel alongside other artists, filmmakers, musicians, photographers and creative thinkers on a road trip to Northeast India; even getting to spend a week completed immersed in the culture and ways of the Majuli Islanders. Along with his stunning photographs, he has shared his bit on how to wade through these waters, and make the most of your experience on this ecologically sensitive Island.
On Getting There and Where To Stay
There are two ferry boats to Majuli from Neemati Ghat, one at 10:00 am and the other at 3:00 pm. The ferry ride lasts about an hour. Once in Majuli, you can stay in a Bamboo cottage, tree house or a cozy home stay. It is to be noted that a lot of establishments are built on stilts as the river encroaches upon a large part of the land. It is said that the Island will be gone in the next 15-20 years. As for Yadav, he says “Our stay was planned by RTX in a riverside bamboo lodge. The food (in Majuli) is simply amazing - you must try an Assamese thali while you’re there.”
On The Islanders
Yadav told us that the people are very open to new faces on the Island. He, for one, just “approached the local villagers, sat and had lunch with them. More than that, I played football with the local football team next to the river, just by asking if I can play. In the evening you’ll see kids running and jumping into the river for a swim, again you can join them without any hesitation.”
On What To Do On The Island
The best thing to do would be to jump into the river! Yadav also tells us that during their trip, they witnessed the 500-year-old mask making culture of the Island. The masks were used in the enactment of the Ramayana at one of the monasteries. Not all Sattras practice this art form, but it is a crucial part of their heritage.
Morning walks by the river and through the forests are highly recommended. Once the sun sets, make sure to find yourself a comfortable spot to gaze out into the sky and see thousands and thousands of stars.
On Getting Around
Yadav told us that they had their Innova taxi with them, which came across via the ferry, but bikes are available to rent, and it’s the best way to explore the length and breadth of the island.
Important Things To Remember
This is an ecologically-sensitive area, and the locals have tried their best to retain the balance. Nature has her way, and the only thing requested of travellers is to be as conscious as one can be when disposing of waste and trash.
On the highlights of his time there
“Trying the local food in a village in a traditionally built house was memorable - they even offered us home-made rice beer, which was surprisingly strong. After the meal, you can buy hand crafted shawls and other products which you won’t find anywhere else, because they make them for their own use.”
Click here for more of Vibhor’s stunning photographs of Majuli Island.