Jodhpur, Aug. 2 -- Nakora, located in the Balotra district, has been a well-known pilgrimage site due to its historic Jain temple. However, a new study has shed new light on the site's geological significance, revealing the region's potential as a geo-tourism destination. Published in the Geoheritage Journal, this study highlights the unique volcanic structures and geological features that surround Nakora, offering both scientific interest and tourism opportunities. The research focuses on the Nakora Ring Complex (NRC), a site marked by remarkable volcanic and tectonic formations. Among the standout features is the volcanic vent found on Maini Hill. This vent, which served as a passage for magma millions of years ago, is a rare geological formation in the region. Measuring approximately 30 meters in length and 5 meters in width, it provides a unique opportunity for researchers to study volcanic activity in ancient times. Dr Naresh Kumar, associate professor in the Department of Geology at Kurukshetra University and lead author of the study, explained, "The volcanic vent in Nakora offers significant insight into the volcanic history of the region. It is not only an important geological feature but also a place that attracts visitors interested in witnessing the stunning landscapes and sunsets." In addition to the volcanic vent, Nakora is home to spheroidal rhyolite formations, which are created when lava cools rapidly. These distinctive concentric rock structures, with their colourful layers, are an exceptional feature of the region. The study highlights that this is the first time such spheroidal rhyolite formations have been reported within the Neoproterozoic Malani Igneous Suite, making the site even more significant for geologists. Dr Kumar further emphasized, "The presence of spheroidal rhyolite at Nakora contributes to our understanding of volcanic processes and adds to the geo-tourism appeal of the site." Another fascinating feature of Nakora is the U-turn of the Luni River, which redirects its flow from west to south near the volcanic structures. This unusual river behaviour is linked to tectonic activity in the region, specifically the Luni-Sukri lineaments, which have influenced the river's path. The study suggests that the Luni River's unique turn serves as an example of how tectonic forces shape the evolution of rivers and landscapes, making it an educational point of interest for tourists and geologists alike....