Eastern Son Valley, Uttar Pradesh, India: a Case for IUGS Geological Heritage Site Designation

The part of Eastern Son valley of India displays a unique geographical location and geology endowed with diversity, distinctiveness and uniqueness. This region is significantly rich in socio-cultural, historical, spiritual and natural heritage. The Salkhan Fossil Park, the Kaimur sandstone terrane, numerous waterfalls, water reservoirs and geological features together represent the gorgeous landscape that evolved since Palaeoproterozoic. The mountainous region is also marked by a number of historical forts, buildings, rock shelters, prehistoric cave paintings, captivating wildlife and rich mineral resources. Son Echo Point is a significant geotourism site located on the steep scarp of Markundi hill in the Sonbhadra district. It has been developed as the consequence of the Markundi–Jamwal Fault. From Son View Point, one can enjoy a panoramic and breathtaking/spectacular view of Son valley carved along the Son–Narmada lineament. The Markundi hills become a popular tourist destination during the monsoon season because of the stunning landscape and numerous seasonal waterfalls. Another major geotourism location is Veer Lorik Pathhar (stone), which is located on Markundi hill around 100 m from Son Echo Point. In addition to the geologists’ point of view of its origin, it is also shrouded in captivating local folklore. The antiquity of human activity in this area goes back to the Lower Palaeolithic period. Numerous archaeological sites, such as cave monuments and cave paintings, have been uncovered, depicting the cultural and religious beliefs of the local population. Archaeological remains in the form of tools and pottery have been discovered in a number of locations throughout the region. The region is important for its geology as well as for the sociocultural beliefs of the local population. We suggest that the eastern Son valley be recognised as an IUGS global geological heritage site from India based on the noteworthy geoheritage and geotourism sites.