Kali Gandaki Gorge, Nepal

Kali Gandaki Gorge and the river flowing along its bottom owe their names to Hindu goddess Kali, who is the personification of the powerful forces of nature. The exact depth of the canyon remains unknown; it’s estimated that latter is more than 6,000 meters deep. Kali Gandaki Gorge is surrounded by majestic mountains Annapurna and Dhaulagiri, whose height is more than 8,000 meters. Annually snow-capped peaks attract thousands of travelers. If tourists consider these places to be natural landmarks, then for the indigenous peoples they have been sacred since ancient times.

The bravest among locals regularly go to one of the gorges to find in the muddy waters some sacred stones called saligrams. Last are really quite unusual; they are fossils of shellfish that has lived in the river millions of years ago. These amazing stones are valued more than gold in India because of their unique healing properties. Travelers would be able to devote some time to this dangerous and fun activity too. They can get to the bottom of the gorge only accompanied by an experienced guide; only locals know the best short and relatively easy way to the banks of the river. Saligram is just one of the many mysteries of Kali Gandaki Gorge. Next - Grand Canyon