Suketi Fossil Park is an important paleontological site located in the Sirmour district of Himachal Pradesh, India, known for its rich fossil deposits. The park is located at Suketi village, about 21 km from Nahan, the district headquarter of Sirmaur. The picturesque landscape with rolling hills, and lush greenery. And a serene environment adds to the charm of the park. And offers a delightful experience to nature enthusiasts and tourists who appreciate the natural beauty of the area.
History of Suketi Fossil Park
The idea of setting up a museum was mooted to save the fossil site and fossils from being indiscriminately extracted and wasted. The park is spread over an area of about 10 hectares and was established on 23 March 1974. It was declared a national-level geological monument by the Geological Survey of India. The site is famous for its well-preserved and diverse collection of fossils, mainly from the Shivalik rocks, which are estimated to be around 2.5 to 5 million years old. The park is home to various fossil remains of ancient animals. Including extinct species such as Sivatherium, a large giraffe-like herbivore, and Colossochely atlas, a giant land tortoise.
Fossilized tree trunks, shells, and other marine life remains can also be found in the park. The Shivalik Fossil Park is situated amidst the beautiful Shivalik Hills, which are a part of the Outer Himalayas. The geological history of the region dates back millions of years and offers a glimpse into prehistoric times when the region was covered by ancient seas, lakes, and marshlands. Visitors to the Shivalik Fossil Park can explore the park’s trails, which lead to several excavation sites and fossil-rich areas.
Educational Opportunities for Researchers
The park provides educational opportunities for paleontology enthusiasts and researchers. And students who can study fossils and gain insight into the geological history of the area. Information boards and exhibits are available throughout the park to provide visitors with details about the fossils, their ages, and the geological significance of the area. Apart from its scientific importance, the Shivalik Fossil Park also offers breathtaking natural surroundings. Making it a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and tourists.
How to Reach
To reach here one has to go from Nahan, the headquarter of Sirmour district, to Kala Amb and then to Suketi. Kala is 5 km ahead of Amb and the park is named after Suketi village. The park is spread over an area of 1.5 square kilometers. Suketi Fossil Park is 70 km from Chandigarh. The park is at a distance of 48 km from Ambala and Yamunanagar. It is advised to use a small vehicle to reach there. The Suketi Fossil Park is a remarkable site that displays a wide range of well-preserved fossils from the Shivalik rocks.
