This is the World’s Largest River Island and You Must See Before It’s Gone

In the heart of Assam’s mighty Brahmaputra River lies Majuli, the world’s largest inhabited river island. Spread over roughly 880 square kilometres, Majuli is not just a geographical wonder but also a living museum of Assamese culture and traditions.

The island is home to numerous satras (Vaishnavite monasteries) established by the 15th-century saint Srimanta Sankardev, which continue to preserve classical dance, music, and art forms. Villages here are dotted with bamboo houses, handloom weaving centres, and warm hospitality that reflects the island’s slow-paced charm.

Nature lovers will find Majuli equally captivating. During winter, the island becomes a birdwatcher’s paradise with migratory species like pelicans, storks, and Siberian cranes. The lush green landscapes, rice fields, and wetlands make it an ideal escape from crowded tourist trails.

However, Majuli faces a grim reality. The island is shrinking due to severe riverbank erosion caused by monsoon floods. Once spread across more than 1,200 square kilometres, Majuli has lost a significant portion of its landmass in recent decades. Experts warn that if the erosion continues at this pace, much of the island could vanish within our lifetime.