Majuli Satras & Mask-Making

Majuli's satras are living centres of the neo-Vaishnavite tradition founded by Srimanta Sankardeva in the 15th–16th centuries. A satra tour introduces you to their distinctive layout — a long prayer hall (namghar) surrounded by monks' quarters — and to the daily rhythm of prayers, music and teaching. Kamalabari and Uttar Kamalabari are known for Sattriya dance, one of India's classical dance forms; Auniati has a museum of royal gifts; Dakhinpat hosts the Raas festival.

At Samaguri Satra, artisans continue a centuries-old tradition of mask-making for Bhaona, devotional theatre that retells episodes from Hindu epics. Masks of gods, demons, birds and animals are built from bamboo frames, cloth, clay and cow dung, then painted in vivid colours. Some giant masks cover the full body. Artisans often demonstrate the process and explain the characters; you can buy small masks directly.

Evening prayer services (naam-prasanga) with cymbals and drums are open to respectful visitors. Combine the satras with a cycling tour of Mising villages and a sunset on the river.