Sualkuchi: The Silk Hamlet

The Assamese hamlet of Sualkuchi, which is a part of the Kamrup district, is situated on the Brahmaputra’s northern banks. The majority of the residents of this village, which is usually referred to as the “Manchester of East,” weave silk clothing. It is the birthplace of Assam’s silk fabric and is well-known as a weaving village. This quaint village has developed over time into a significant center for the industrial production of local silk textiles, particularly Pat and Muga silk.

Sualkuchi, a historic town with many small businesses, was formerly a community of craftsmen with centers for weaving and silk production, goldsmiths, and potters. However, the majority of the population started working with Pat, Muga Silk, and Eri Silk to weave silk clothing.

Sualkuchi, a hub for commercial weaving, is credited with receiving handloom weaving from the Ahomiya monarchs in the eleventh century. In order to support the weaving industry, King Dharma Pal of the Pala dynasty managed to bring 26 weaving family members to Saulkuchi in the 11th century. Under the sponsor of the Ahoms, Hamlet transforms into a weaving society in the 17th century.

Weaving is a laborious but lovely process that frequently finds its way into the state’s mekhela chadars. There are numerous mekhela chadars, each with a special design influenced by various hues and fabrics. Mekhela chadars frequently feature the colors white and gold, and other threads are used to create exquisite garments like saris, shawls, dress materials, and rihas.

These intricately designed mekhela chadars are frequently brightly coloured and worn during  Rongali Bihu. These finely woven fabrics come in a variety of colours and can also be found in other accessories.

The villagers’ residents are naturally gifted weavers. Their way of life is inextricably linked to it. Because of its commercial importance, talented weavers from all around flock to this place.

What to Do & See

Locals are welcoming and frequently assist tourists. A museum depicting life in Sualkuchi is located in the Vastra Udyaan, which is close to the town’s entrance. In the majority of households, weaving can be seen in action. Keep your trip over the winter to attend the Raas Mahotsava. Additionally, you could go to the Siddheswari Devalaya, a Shiva temple perched on a hill. There are many places where you can purchase lovely mekhela chadars or clothing supplies.

How to Get There?

The closest airport is Guwahati, which is 32 kilometers away from Sualkuchi. The closest train station is in Kamakhya (29 km), however, Guwahati has far better connections.

You can take a regular public bus from  Guwahati to the village of Sualkuchi to get there. To go to Sualkuchi, you can also rent a cab or an automobile from the city.