In Depth
Majuli Raas Mahotsav – The Soul of Assamese Vaishnavite Culture
Celebrated on Raas Purnima during the Aghun month (usually in November), the festival transforms Majuli into a sacred pilgrimage site. For four days, the island resonates with devotion as Satras (Vaishnavite monasteries), Naamghars, open grounds, community halls, and temporary pandals host magnificent Bhaonas or religious dramas depicting the life, childhood, mischief, and divine love of Lord Krishna.
What makes Majuli Raas Mahotsav truly unique is that Majuli is the only place in Assam where Raas Leela is traditionally enacted by local devotees themselves. People from all walks of life participate wholeheartedly – children perform on stage, teachers lend their voices, artisans craft masks and props, while farmers, shopkeepers, and officials recite devotional songs. The performances continue throughout the night, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of ancient times, free from modern distractions.
The festival beautifully blends Vedic traditions with theatrical expression. Raas Leela performances are held both in open spaces following Vedic rituals and on structured stages incorporating dramatic storytelling. Dakhinpat Satra was the first to introduce Raas Leela more than three hundred years ago, and today nearly 20 out of Majuli's 50 stages host Vedic-style performances.
Masks made at Natun Samuguri Satra, pottery, boat-making traditions from Kamalabari Satra, folk music, Satriya dance, and vibrant exhibitions form an essential part of the celebrations. A food festival showcasing traditional, tribal, and native Assamese cuisine further enhances the experience.
How to Reach Majuli Raas Mahotsav
The nearest airport is Jorhat Airport, located about 30 km away. The closest railway station is Jorhat Railway Station, approximately 18 km from Neemati Ghat. From Jorhat, travelers must reach Neemati Ghat by road and then take a ferry across the Brahmaputra River to Kamalabari Ghat in Majuli. Ferries operate during daylight hours, and during Raas Mahotsav, advance planning is highly recommended due to heavy tourist inflow.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Majuli is during Raas Purnima in November, when the Raas Mahotsav is celebrated on a grand scale. This period offers pleasant weather and the best opportunity to witness Majuli's living cultural heritage.
Where to Stay in Majuli
If you are planning to tour Majuli, here are some best hotels at Majuli.
Hotels in Majuli Assam
The river island of Majuli is among the important tourism places in Assam, and especially during the festival of Raas fair, it can get crowded. Not everyone who visits Majuli stays in the island, and a number of people stay in nearby Jorhat, and commute from there. There are no luxury hotels in Majuli, but a few decent accommodations of private and governmental ownership, in which you can enjoy your stay for a few days.
There are quite a few governmental bunglows and guest houses which offer you a good holiday experience. There is the Circuit House in Garmur, which has two VIP suites along with a number of two bedded rooms.
There are a few PWD Inspection Bunglows in and around Majuli in which you can put up. Also the Satras host Guest houses for the convenience of the tourists.
If you are looking for some other places to stay, there are three private guest houses, namely, La Maison de Anand, the Ygdrasil bamboo cottage, and the Dekasong Resort, which offer you a taste of exotic living along with the regular facilities.
Best Hotels in Majuli List
1) Dekasang Resort: Dekasang is a traditional-style resort seated in the river island of Majuli.
Address: Sitadar Chuk, Near River Luit, Garmur, Chariali, Majuli, Assam 785104
Phone Number: +91 - 9854715435, 8134074656, 8724994315.
2) Prashaati Cottages Complex
Address: NLK Road, near Kamalabari Ferry Ghat, Kamalabari Satra, Bhogpur Satra, Majuli, Assam 785106
Phone Number: +91 3775-2730901, +91 - 9854858353, 9435734138, 9401094734
3) Ygdrasill Bamboo Cottage
Address: Jengraimukh Rd, Doria Gaon, Majuli, Assam 785104
Phone Number: +91 8876707326
4) Sunrise Resort
Address: Borun Chitadar Chuk Sunapur, Bukura, Majuli, Assam 787052
Phone Number: +91 8811987272
5) Okegiga Homes
Address: Chitadar Chuk, Garamur Phutuki Chapori, Majuli, Assam 785104
Phone Number: +91 8822390306
6) MAHABAHU BAMBOO COTTAGE
Address: KB Rd, Pohar Dia, Kamalabari Satra, Majuli, Assam 785106
Phone Number: +91 7578057332, 6000746273, 7578057332
Organized By
Tourist Information Center
Nayanmoni Pamegama
Alimur Mur Kamalabari 785106, Majuli
Phone Number: +91 -8486770913
Email : directorate-tourism[at]assam[dot]gov[dot]in
Quick Info Table on Majuli Raas Mahotsav Festival
| Particulars | Details |
|---|---|
| Festival Name | Majuli Raas Mahotsav |
| Location | Majuli Island, Assam |
| Celebrated On | Raas Purnima (November) |
| Duration | 4 Days |
| Main Attraction | Raas Leela, Bhaona |
| First Started At | Dakhinpat Satra |
| Nearest Airport | Jorhat Airport |
| Nearest Railhead | Jorhat Railway Station |
| Ideal Visit Time | November |
| Entry Fee | Mostly Free |
FAQs on Majuli Raas Mahotsav
Q1. What is Majuli Raas Mahotsav famous for?
Majuli Raas Mahotsav is famous for Raas Leela performances depicting the life of Lord Krishna through devotional plays.
Q2. When is Majuli Raas Mahotsav celebrated?
It is celebrated on Raas Purnima in the month of Aghun, usually in November.
Q3. Where is Majuli Raas Mahotsav held?
The festival is held across Satras, Naamghars, and open spaces throughout Majuli Island, Assam.
Q4. How many days does the festival last?
The Raas Mahotsav generally continues for four days.
Q5. Which Satra started Raas Leela in Majuli?
Raas Leela was first started at Dakhinpat Satra more than three hundred years ago.
Q6. How can I reach Majuli for Raas Mahotsav?
Reach Jorhat by air or train, travel to Neemati Ghat, and take a ferry to Majuli Island.
Q7. Is Majuli Raas Mahotsav suitable for tourists?
Yes, it is one of the best times to experience Assamese culture, art, and spirituality.
Q8. Are tickets required for Raas Leela performances?
Most performances are free, though some Satras like Garamur Satra may require advance booking.
Q9. What cultural activities are seen during the festival?
Bhaona plays, mask making, pottery, boat making, folk music, and traditional dances.
Q10. Where can tourists stay during Raas Mahotsav?
Tourists can stay in guest houses, bamboo cottages, Satras guest houses, or nearby Jorhat hotels.