I have always been drawn to places with hidden stories, where history sleeps in old stones, and traditions live on through the people. Assam, a land of rivers and rolling hills, holds such secrets. It is not just about tea gardens and the mighty Brahmaputra; it is also about forgotten kingdoms, ancient tribal traditions, and lost monasteries that whisper the tales of time.
Table of Contents
The Legacy of the Ahom Kingdom
The Ahoms ruled Assam for over 600 years, leaving behind a rich history of warfare, culture, and administration. Their influence can still be seen in the old ruins, temples, and traditions that continue today. They merged with the local tribal cultures, creating a unique blend of Assamese identity. But what intrigued me most were the hidden monasteries scattered across Assam, each holding its own forgotten story.
Assam’s Lost Monasteries
The Umananda Monastery – The Island Treasure
My journey began at Umananda Island, located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River. A small boat ride took me to this peaceful place, home to the Umananda Monastery. The setting was breathtaking—an island wrapped in lush greenery with the sound of flowing water all around. The monastery, built centuries ago, is dedicated to Lord Shiva and holds deep spiritual significance. I met a monk who shared stories of how the place survived many invasions and still stands strong today. The calmness here was something I had never felt before. I sat by the temple steps, watching the river flow, and imagined how this place must have looked centuries ago, untouched and full of stories.
Batadrava Than – The Birthplace of Assamese Spirituality
Next, I traveled to Batadrava Than in Nagaon district, the birthplace of Srimanta Sankardeva, the saint who shaped Assamese culture and religion. This monastery, or “Than,” is not just a place of worship but a cultural center. The teachings of Sankardeva introduced the Neo-Vaishnavism movement, bringing people together through devotion, dance, and music. The place was alive with prayers, and the sight of devotees performing the traditional “Sattriya” dance made me feel connected to Assam’s spiritual roots. I sat with a devotee who told me about the history of the place and how every prayer here is a bridge between the past and the present.
Majuli’s Satras – The Floating Monastic Tradition
Majuli, the world’s largest river island, is a place like no other. It is home to several “Satras,” or monasteries, preserving Assam’s religious and artistic traditions. I visited the Kamalabari Satra, one of the most famous ones, where monks live a disciplined life of prayer and art. The island itself is magical, surrounded by the mighty Brahmaputra, and the monks welcomed me with warm smiles. I even got to witness a unique form of dance drama known as “Bhaona,” a traditional performance that tells ancient stories. As I walked through the wooden corridors, I realized that these monasteries were not just places of worship but centers of knowledge, art, and devotion.
Da-Parbatia – The Forgotten Ruins
While exploring Assam, I came across Da-Parbatia, an ancient ruin of a monastery in Tezpur. The place is believed to be one of the oldest archaeological sites in Assam. Though most of the structures have crumbled, the detailed carvings on the walls still tell stories of the past. It was a hauntingly beautiful place, reminding me of how history slowly fades but never completely disappears. Standing there, touching the old stones, I wondered about the monks who once lived here, their prayers echoing through time.
The Tribal Traditions of Assam
While the monasteries of Assam hold its spiritual past, the tribal traditions here keep its culture alive. Assam is home to many indigenous tribes, each with its unique customs, festivals, and way of life.
The Bodo Tribe – Keepers of Ancient Knowledge
The Bodos, one of the largest tribes in Assam, have a deep connection with nature. They practice shifting cultivation, and their houses are built from bamboo. What fascinated me the most was their belief in Bathouism, a spiritual practice that worships nature. I sat with an elder who explained how they communicate with their ancestors through rituals. The simplicity of their life and their deep respect for nature left a lasting impact on me. I watched as children played traditional games, their laughter echoing in the air, a reminder that culture lives on through generations.
The Mishing Tribe – The River People
Living along the banks of the Brahmaputra, the Mishing tribe has adapted beautifully to life near the water. Their stilt houses protect them from floods, and their fishing techniques are an art in themselves. I was invited to a traditional feast where I tasted Apong, their homemade rice beer. Sitting under a starry sky, listening to folk songs, I felt like I was part of their world, even if just for a moment. The warmth of their hospitality made me realize that true richness lies in community and tradition.
The Karbi Tribe – Guardians of Folk Stories
The Karbis, living in the hills of Assam, are known for their storytelling traditions. I met a group of elders who shared myths about their ancestors, stories that have been passed down for generations. They also perform beautiful folk dances during festivals like Rongker. It made me realize how storytelling is an art that connects the past with the present. As I sat around the fire, listening to their tales, I felt a deep respect for these keepers of wisdom.
The Tiwa Tribe – The Festival Enthusiasts
The Tiwa tribe is famous for their lively festivals, especially the Jonbeel Mela, where people still follow the age-old barter system. I was lucky to witness this fair where tribes from different parts of Assam came together to exchange goods without using money. It was like stepping into a world where traditions ruled over modernity. The festival was full of colors, music, and joy, showing how traditions are not just preserved but celebrated.
Assam – A Land of Hidden Treasures
My journey through Assam’s forgotten monasteries and tribal lands was more than just travel. It was an experience of time travel, a lesson in history, and a deep dive into traditions that refuse to fade away.
From the peaceful Umananda Monastery to the lively streets of a tribal fair, Assam showed me its true essence—one that is spiritual, cultural, and breathtakingly beautiful. Every monastery, every village, and every story I encountered became a part of me, shaping my understanding of this land of wonders.
If you love discovering hidden places and untold stories, Assam is waiting for you. And if you want to see more of my travel adventures, check out my YouTube channel, ShivaTells!
Till then, keep exploring, keep traveling!
Read Tribe Stories –
- Reflective, Grateful: Knowing the Jarawa Tribe, the Guardians of Andaman Islands
- The Enduring Nomadic Gaddi Tribe: A Journey Through Time
Watch Tribe stories –