Sasoni Merbil Eco Tourism Park, Assam – The Island Of Silence Near Naharkatiya

Surrounded by dense greenery, forest patches, and a vast water body, Sasoni Merbil is a biodiversity hotspot that supports a wide range of wildlife including migratory birds, butterflies, fish, tortoises, snakes, and other wetland species. Every winter, the lake becomes a haven for bird watchers as numerous migratory birds arrive, making it one of the emerging birding destinations in Assam.

Eco Tourism and Activities

The Sasoni Merbil Eco Tourism Project promotes sustainable and community-based tourism. Visitors can enjoy activities such as boating on the tranquil lake, jungle trekking through forest trails, jeep safaris, bird watching, and guided village walks. Cultural interactions with nearby indigenous communities like Tai Phake and Sonowal Kachari add a meaningful local experience to the visit.

The eco-park also offers traditional Assamese and organic ethnic cuisine, prepared using locally sourced ingredients, allowing tourists to experience authentic flavors of rural Assam.

History of Sasoni Merbil

According to local belief, during the seventeenth century, on the banks of the river Buri Dihing lived a spiritually accomplished and learned priest named Sri Sri Ram Gusain. He had established his satra, a place of religious practice, at Mahamari in present-day Duliajan. Through his teachings, Sri Sri Ram spread peace, spirituality, and unity among the people of the region.

During this period, Sri Sri Ram and his wife were blessed with a daughter named Dite. As a child, Dite was playful and mischievous. At times, when frustrated by her naughtiness, her mother would jokingly threaten to give her away to the Jaldevata, the water deity. As the years passed, Dite grew into a young woman of extraordinary beauty, often compared to a goddess or a fairy.

One night, the Jaldevata appeared in Dite's mothers dream and asked for Dite's hand in marriage. The dream deeply disturbed her, and feeling guilty about her past words, she narrated the incident to her husband and the villagers the next morning. Everyone dismissed it as a mere dream. However, that very night, the Jaldevata appeared in the dreams of Sri Sri Ram and the villagers as well, repeating the same request.

Despite the villagers urging Sri Sri Ram to accept the proposal, he refused. As a result, the Jaldevata unleashed his fury, causing massive floods that submerged the entire region and destroyed villages. Sri Sri Ram then left Mahamari with his disciples and settled at Merbeel in Sasoni, where he established a new satra.

However, the dreams continued. When Sri Sri Ram once again rejected the proposal, a sudden and powerful surge of water surrounded the area, trapping everyone like an island. After two days of devastation and suffering, Sri Sri Ram finally accepted the Jaldevata's proposal for the sake of the people.

Dite was married to the Jaldevata, who arrived in a magnificent golden boat adorned with ornaments, jewels, and gold coins. Even today, locals believe that gold coins are occasionally found in the fields while ploughing, believed to be remnants of that divine marriage.

After the marriage, Sri Sri Ram prayed to God to save the people from being permanently trapped. His prayers were answered, and a shallow stretch of land appeared on the western side, through which a small path was later formed. This path allowed people to move out of the island-like region.

This is how, according to local belief, the Merbeel region came into existence. Scientifically, however, Merbeel is considered to be an ox-bow lake formed by the river Buri Dihing.

Cultural and Mythological Significance

Beyond its natural charm, Sasoni Merbil holds deep cultural and spiritual importance. According to local legend, Merbil is considered the abode of the water deity Jalkonwar, also known as Kalika. The origin of the vast water body is closely linked with the Bareghar Satra, an ancient Vaishnavite shrine located within the wetland area.

Local folklore narrates how divine intervention led to the formation of Merbil, and even today, residents treat the wetland with reverence, avoiding pollution and respecting its sacred status. The name Merbeel itself signifies a water body that encircles land, much like an island.

In February 2021, a beautifully crafted tableau depicting the legend of Jalkonwar and his consort was installed inside the eco-park during the Merbil Festival, further enhancing the cultural appeal of the destination.

Accommodation Options

Sasoni Merbil offers eco-friendly stay options that blend with nature. Assam Tourism has developed cottages within the eco-tourism project area. Visitors can also choose from local homestays and paying guest facilities managed by village communities, offering a warm and authentic rural experience.

Additional accommodation options include the OIL Guest House, Forest Inspection Bungalow at Jaypur, and select tea garden guest houses in nearby areas. For travelers seeking modern hotels, Naharkatiya and Duliajan towns provide suitable alternatives.

How to Reach Sasoni Merbil

Sasoni Merbil is easily accessible from major towns of Upper Assam.

• By Air: The nearest airport is Dibrugarh Airport, well connected with major Indian cities.

• By Rail: Naharkatiya Railway Station and Dibrugarh Railway Station are the closest railheads.

• By Road: Regular taxis and local transport are available from Dibrugarh, Naharkatiya, and Duliajan.

Best Time to Visit Sasoni Merbil

The ideal time to visit Sasoni Merbil is during the winter season from mid-November to February. The weather remains pleasant, migratory birds are abundant, and outdoor activities are most enjoyable during this period.

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