Geotourism Potential of the Nakora Ring Complex, Western Rajasthan, India
摘要
Neoproterozoic volcano-plutonic Nakora Ring Complex (NRC) is well known for the presence of its Nakora Parshvanath Jain Temple, which is surrounded by the Nakora hills. NRC mainly consists of volcanic, plutonic, and dyke phases. NRC rocks are outcropped in a semi-circular structure along which the luni river takes a U-turn from the west to the south direction. NRC site is highly respected and significant among Jain pilgrims, and thousands of pilgrims visit annually. At NRC, there are a total of eight hills in the form of a ring, with a volcanic vent, spectacular columnar structures and beautiful spheroidal features. The site contains intricate architecture in the temple and residential bhavans (hostels). NRC is a truly fascinating site that has been well studied geologically, but it has not been promoted as a geo-tourism destination, as it is situated in a desert region of western Rajasthan. This work presents, for the first time, the recognition of the NRC as a rich geological, cultural, and spiritual area that must be highlighted by regional and national authorities as a premier tourism site in western Rajasthan.