Curious rock formations from around the world; check out the mysterious one from India

Earth's geology is full of enigmas, where wind, water, erosion, and ancient volcanic forces have sculpted rocks into shapes that spark wonder, myths, and even scientific debates. These formations remind us of nature's artistry and the stories they inspire. Some defy the law of physics, some are believed to have otherworldly origins, and some just incredibly photogenic. These are all just rocks and boulders in theory, but look deeper, they make for great travel stories, memories, and inspiration.

Perched precariously on a steep 45-degree slope in Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram), this massive 6-meter-high granite boulder—estimated at 250-300 tons—is called Krishna’s Butter Ball. Observers say it reminds them of a giant dollop of butter. Hence it is named after Lord Krishna, the legendary makhan chor (who stole butter as a child). The boulder has been shaped by wind erosion, with its center of gravity keeping it balanced. It is one of the protected monuments, and draws crowds daily.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site features about 40,000 interlocking basalt columns, mostly hexagonal. These columns were formed 50-60 million years ago by cooling lava from a volcanic fissure. The columns' geometric precision looks artificial, fueling myths and even early alien theories, but its pure geology.

Did you know that this was the first U.S. national monument? This 867-foot (264-meter) monolithic butte in Wyoming, juts from the plains like a giant tree stump. The Devil’s Tower was formed approximately 50 million years ago when molten magma cooled into hexagonal columns. It is sacred to the Native Americans, who call it Bear Lodge.

Along Koekohe Beach on the South Island, these near-perfect spherical formations dot the shore. Some say they look like dinosaur eggs! Eggs or not, these were formed approximately 60 million years ago from calcite-cemented mudstone. As per Maori legends, these are the remains of a wrecked canoe's baskets and gourds

In the Coyote Buttes of Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, this swirling sandstone formation resembles ocean waves in red, orange, and yellow hues. It’s as if the waves froze mid-action and have taken these curious colours. These were carved over 190 million years ago by wind and water. Visitors need a permit to explore this site.

Located in Arches National Park, Utah, this 55-foot (17-meter) slab of Entrada sandstone is perched atop a 73-foot pedestal of softer Dewey Bridge mudstone. This rock formation was formed by erosion over millions of years. Studies suggest that the rock weighs about 3,600 tons yet balances impossibly, with only 30 percent contact area.

In the Wulingyuan Scenic Area, shrouded in mist and subtropical forest, over 3,000 quartz-sandstone pillars soar up to 800 meters. These strange, otherworldly-looking rock formations are the results of erosion for over 380 million years. This site even inspired the floating mountains in the movie Avatar.

Thousands of 3-4 meter limestone spires rise like a petrified forest from yellow sands, formed 25,000-100,000 years ago when seashells cemented into karst, then exposed by erosion. Their stark, needle-like forms take one’s imagination to an alien world. Walk among them at golden hour for stunning shadows effects.