Geological Wonders of Karnataka - Part - 2
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The South Indian peninsula, submerged in the sea, has risen due to tectonic disturbance and has formed a mountain range with rare geological sites. The different rocks found in Karnataka is three thousand million year old and stands testimony to the early pages of the earth’s history. This range of the Rocky Mountains, which have spread between Shimoga and Goa, is named the Dharwar Schist belt.
Pillow Lavas of Maradihalli:- In Chitradurga town in Karnataka, lies the tiny hamlet of Maradihalli. It is of the structure of Pillow lavas. These are formed within the ocean due to the sudden cooling of Lava. Here they round an ellipsodical-shaped pillow lavas have been welded to me another. Due to the sudden cooling of lavas, volcanic glass rinse is formed. It is clear that these pillow lavas are two thousand five hundred million years old; hence, this site has been protected as National Geological Monument.
Limestone Pinnacles of Yanna:- If we travel on Sirsi-kumta road, turn right towards Gokarna after a few kilometres, turn left and proceed in the dense forest of Yanna. It is known for the unusual crust rock formations. It is located in the Sahyadri mountain range of the western ghats. The two unique rock outcrops near the village are a tourist attraction and easily approachable by a small trek through 0.5 kilometres of thick forests from the nearest road head. It is famous for these two massive rock outcrops, the Bhairaveshwara Shikhara and the Mohini Shikhara. The huge rocks are composed of solid black, Crystalline karst limestone. The legend says that Lord Vishnu transformed himself into an attractive woman and slewed the demon Bramhasura at this place.
Caves of Ulavi:- Another wonder of the North-Kannada district is the cave of Ullavi, fifty-seven km away from Dandeli town and spreading over 10sq km around Ulavi are these caves which are astounding creations of nature. These caves were shelters for the men of early human civilisation. These caves are also formed due to the water action and weathering. Slices and big holes are included in the granite. The Ullaavi caves are directly related to the Vachanakaras of the 12th century. When we enter Aakala cave through a narrow tunnel, we find clusters hanging from the top resembling the other cattle.
Kavala Caves:- One of the most popular places to visit in Dandeli, Kavala makes for an exciting visit. These caves are believed to be as old as prehistoric times and made of volcanic origins. We can find these caves in the Dandeli wildlife sanctuary.
Stromatolites of Kalaadagi:- The tiny hamlet of Kalaadagi in the Bangalkur district is a vital administration centre of the British raj. The distinct and best examples of Kalaadagi group rocks are at the outskirts of Bangalkur town and Kajjidoni, Lookapura and at Jambagi.
The peninsular genesis of Lalbagh:- The southern peninsula was formed with primitive rock formation, which belongs to the early years of the earth’s evolution. Unlike the granites, which formed the higher resistance of the hill. The huge rock is three thousand years old. When this rock took place, there was neither Western Ghats nor the Himalayas existed. Hence Geographical survey of India declared it a National Geographical Monument.