Understanding the mystery of Rameshwaram’s floating stones

Times of IndiaTIMESOFINDIA.COM/TRAVEL TRENDS, TAMIL NADU/ Created : Sep 16, 2023, 08:00 IST

Understanding the mystery of Rameshwaram’s floating stones

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Synopsis

These geological formations have left the scientists, archaeologists, devotees and visitors baffled. Let’s try to understand the logic and mystery behind these stones.

Understanding the mystery of Rameshwaram’s floating stones

Rameshwaram is a quaint island in Tamil Nadu, in the southern part of India. This island is revered and renowned for its stunning landscapes and symbolic ancient temples and its association with the Hindu epic Ramayana. But there’s one more thing that has left the world stunned—the floating stones of Rameshwaram.

These geological formations have left the scientists, archaeologists, devotees and visitors baffled. Let’s try to understand the logic and mystery behind these stones.

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History of Rameshwaram’s floating rocks

The floating stones are associated with the famous and mesmerising Ramanathaswamy Temple. It is counted among the most pious and significant religious centres in India. Legend has it that Lord Rama from the Hindu epic Ramayana, had built a bridge across the Gulf of Mannar to reach Sri Lanka to save his wife, Sita, who was kidnapped by the king of Lanka, Ravana.

The floating stones here are said to be remnants of this mythical bridge, which is often known as Rama's Bridge or Adam's Bridge.

What’s so special about these rocks?

Well, these stones are interesting because of their buoyant nature. Unlike other rocks, these float on water instead of sinking. This unique property of these stones make them special as they defy all principles of buoyancy. This phenomenon has puzzled the world.

Scientific explanation

Scientifically, these stones can float because of their composition. The Floating Stones are actually a type of sedimentary rock known as pumice stones/rocks. These rocks are created from volcanic eruptions and compose of tiny air bubbles, which makes them extremely low in density. When we place such rocks in water, they float instead of sinking.

Regardless of the scientific explanation, these rocks still continue to bemuse people with its mythology and mysticism. These rocks hold immense religious significance for many as they are a living connection to the legendary events of the Ramayana.

Witnessing these rocks float over water is an experience of a lifetime regardless of the explanation you believe in!