MORNI (Haryana): Morni Hills, a picturesque hill station developed by the Haryana Tourism Department, has now gained global geological significance with the discovery of 20-million-year-old fossilized wood. This groundbreaking find is set to revolutionize tourism and scientific exploration in the region, offering visitors a unique glimpse into Earth's ancient past.
Dr. Ritesh Arya, founder of the Tethys Fossil Museum, along with Dr. Jagmohan Singh, Director of the Tethys Museum Foundation, made this astonishing discovery while exploring the region for a field guidebook aimed at young geologists and researchers.
Their keen observations led to the unearthing of beautifully preserved fossilized tree trunks embedded within the sandstone beds of the Kasauli Formation.
The discovery includes 10 to 15 fossil trees, ranging in size from 1 to 12 feet, dating back to 20 million years. These fossils, preserved in sandstone, confirm Morni Hills as an untapped treasure trove for paleontological studies and nature lovers.
One of the fossilized trees measures about 2 to 3 feet in diameter and has a preserved length of 10 to 12 feet. However, its actual length could have exceeded 70 to 80 feet suggesting that massive ancient trees once flourished in the region. What makes these fossils remarkable is their silicification process, which replaced the organic material with silica, perfectly preserving the tree barks. These fossilized trees provide an unprecedented look into an ancient ecosystem that once thrived in this area.
Dr. Arya stated that these fossil trees bear striking similarities to those he previously discovered in Kasauli and Barog. Notably, a fossil tree he uncovered in 1989 during his PhD research remains preserved at Jagjitnagar near Kasauli, while others have unfortunately been lost due to infrastructure development.
A Must-Visit Destination for Tourists and Researchers
Beyond its scenic landscapes and serene atmosphere, Morni Hills now offers an exciting new attraction for tourists, students and researchers. Visitors can walk through history, witnessing remnants of trees that stood tall millions of years ago. To leverage this monumental discovery, authorities and tourism departments are urged to develop guided fossil trails, interactive exhibits, and geotourism initiatives. Such efforts will not only safeguard these invaluable fossils but also position Morni Hills as a world-class geological and adventure tourism destination.
Preserving the Past, Embracing the Future
Dr. Arya emphasized that the Tethys Museum Foundation was ready to collaborate with the Haryana Government to preserve these fossils and explore additional sites of geological importance. This partnership could play a crucial role in strengthening the region’s geoheritage while promoting geoeducation and geotourism. This discovery also sheds light on the geological history of Morni Hills. It suggests that the region was once near a coastline and the Himalayas had not yet formed when these fossil trees were uprooted and transported by massive ancient flooding events.
Proper conservation of these fossils will not only enhance tourism but also serve as an invaluable educational resource for aspiring geologists, students, and nature enthusiasts. Now is the time for tourists, researchers, and adventure seekers to visit Morni Hills and embark on a thrilling journey through time! Whether you're a science enthusiast or a
nature lover, Morni Hills promises an unforgettable experience filled with wonder and discovery. Pack your bags and set off on an extraordinary adventure where history, nature, and science converge!