Ecotourism is considered as an ideal economic activity for promoting sustainability and is often associated with sustainable livelihoods. It can be defined as travel to relatively undisturbed natural areas for study, enjoyment or volunteer assistance, focusing on the local flora, fauna, geology and ecosystems. It aims to understand the mutual relationship between the natural environment and the communities living there to promote conservation and sustainable development. The present study attempts to understand the prospects and challenges of community-based ecotourism in Majuli Island, Assam, through the lens of the Social-Ecological Systems (SES) framework. Majuli is known for its pristine natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, which offers a compelling case for sustainable tourism development on the island. By adopting a qualitative approach involving interviews, observations and historical data analysis, the research explores the potential of Majuli’s ecological and cultural resources for ecotourism. Findings reveal that the island’s suitability for ecotourism is due to its serene environment, biodiversity and cultural vibrancy. However, challenges such as riverbank erosion, inadequate infrastructure and poor connectivity pose significant hurdles to ecotourism development in Majuli. By adopting the SES framework, the study identifies key variables and proposes strategies for sustainable tourism development in Majuli. The research highlights the importance of holistic approaches, stakeholder collaboration and adaptive governance structures in realizing the potential of ecotourism for promoting conservation, community empowerment and economic development in Majuli Island.