Majuli Raas Festival
Around Kartik Purnima, usually November (lunar calendar)
Raas celebrates the Raas Leela of Krishna, the dance with the gopis of Vrindavan, and his life more widely. In Majuli it has become the island's biggest festival, held over three to five nights around the full moon of the Assamese month of Kati, which usually falls in November. The satras, the Vaishnava monasteries founded in the tradition of Srimanta Sankardeva, are at its heart.
Performances take place in satras and village halls across the island, with large casts of monks and villagers. Plays draw on the bhaona tradition, with masks, painted backdrops, music on khol drums and cymbals, and Sattriya dance. Rehearsals start weeks ahead, and the whole community is involved in building sets, sewing costumes and cooking for guests.
Raas brings pilgrims and visitors from across Assam, and Majuli's few rooms fill quickly. Performances often run late into the night. We plan two or three nights on the island, arrange seats at a satra performance through local contacts, and pair the festival with Kaziranga, which is open and comfortable in November.
How to do it well
- Book Majuli rooms several months ahead; capacity is very small.
- Ferries are busier during Raas; cross in the morning and allow extra time.
- Bring a warm layer and a cushion for late-night performances in open halls.
Questions travellers ask
Good to know
When is Majuli Raas?
Raas is held over several nights around Kartik Purnima, the full moon of the Assamese month of Kati, usually in November and occasionally late October. Exact dates follow the lunar calendar and are confirmed closer to the time. Check current status before you travel.
Where are the Raas performances held?
In satras and village halls across Majuli island, with major performances at satras such as Garamur and Auniati. Several performances happen on the same nights, and your guide can help choose. Some are ticketed; others are open to all.
How do I get to Majuli for Raas?
Fly to Jorhat or drive from Kaziranga, then take the vehicle ferry from Nimati Ghat to the island, about 1 to 1.5 hours. Ferries are busy during Raas, and none run after dark. Plan to arrive in the morning and stay at least two nights.
Can I combine Majuli Raas with Kaziranga?
Yes. Kaziranga is about 2.5 hours from Nimati Ghat, and November is a good month for safaris. A typical plan is two or three nights on Majuli for Raas and three at Kaziranga, with Hoollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary on the way.
Festival journeys
Routes built around the calendar
