Uttar Kamalabari Satra — Attraction in Assam

Kamalabari Satra is considered as one of the most influential Satra of Assam. It has been not only the center of Vaishnavism but also cultural center of the region. Satra is the most powerful and unique religious institutional trend started by Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva, the father of the Neo-Vaishnavite Movement in Assam. It is said that Sankaradeva established the first Satra by planting a Bilva tree and naming the place Belguri (Bilva Tree shelter) in Majuli (then known as Dhuwahat), the largest river island in the world. Kamalabari satra has been a centre of art, cultural, literature and classical studies for centuries. Due to the damages done by flood, one branch of the Satra is recently established in the mainland Assam. But the a branch of the original Kamalabari Satra still continues from the Majuli island in the midst the river Brahmaputra, the Kamalabari Satra has been producing great figures in Assam the cultural sector. It is the home to legendary musicians and performing artists like the Late Maniram Dutta, Muktiyar Bayan and Raseswar Saikia Barbayan, who contributed greatly towards the conferment of the Classical status upon Satriya Dance. The disciples and artists trained in the satra still performs nationally and internationally today. The satra is known for creating sculptures of mythological characters and also crafting beautiful boats. The current Kamalabari Satra can be reached by ferry from Nimatighat port near Jorhat. The best season to visit Majuli and the Satra is in the winter...

Satra-s are a sort of templesara seen in Assam and adjoing states of North-East India. These are associated with a religious school and residence or hostels for monks called " Bhakta"-s. This is as per tradition established by Srimant Shankar Deva, the famous 15th-16th century Vaishnava Saint from Assam.

The Satra-s structurally have a common design - they all have an entrance gate called Torana, a big garden, ponds and a temple surrounded by long barrack-like hostels for monks. The temple has an elongated rectangular hall or Mandapa in front and a sanctum with a tower behind. The sanctum houses the Bigraha-s or idols of Lord Krishna and others.

Uttara Kamalabari Satra, situated in Majuli island, the largest riverine island of the world formed naturally inside the mighty river Brahmaputra in Assam, is a beautiful Satra along Srimant Shankar Deva's line.

The beautiful Torana (gate), the spacious garden full of trees, the long barrack-like residential hostels for the monks called Bhakata-s and above all, the beautiful temple with a rectangular Mandapa (Hall) and a sactum with Bigrahas (idols) of Lord Krishna - all are eye-catching...

Here’s a review you can use for Kamalabari Satra on Google Maps:

Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

I had the privilege of visiting Kamalabari Satra and it was truly an unforgettable experience! Located in the heart of Majuli, this historic satra is a spiritual and cultural hub, offering a peaceful environment that radiates serenity. The architecture of the satra is stunning, with its traditional Assamese style and intricate carvings that tell the story of its rich history.

The monks(BHAKAT) and locals were incredibly welcoming, and I appreciated learning about the satra's role in preserving the Vaishnavism tradition and its cultural significance. The prayers, devotional songs, and rituals were deeply moving, giving me a sense of connection to the region's heritage.

If you're visiting Majuli, I highly recommend making time to visit Kamalabari Satra—it's a perfect blend of spirituality, culture, and history. I left with a deeper appreciation for Assamese culture...