Salar Jung Museum | Hyderabad

Information

Landmark: Salar Jung Museum
City: Hyderabad
Country: India
Continent: Asia

Salar Jung Museum, Hyderabad, India, Asia

Devils Tower National Monument is a prominent geological formation located in northeastern Wyoming, USA.

Visual Characteristics

The monument is a large, steep-sided igneous intrusion, primarily composed of phonolite porphyry. Its surface exhibits columnar jointing, creating a distinctive textured appearance. The tower rises approximately 1,267 feet (386 meters) above the Belle Fourche River valley floor and has a base diameter of about 1,000 feet (300 meters). The rock color ranges from dark gray to reddish-brown, depending on lighting conditions and weathering.

Location & Access Logistics

Devils Tower National Monument is situated 33 miles (53 km) east of Sundance, Wyoming, accessible via Wyoming Highway 110 (Devils Tower Highway). The drive from Sundance takes approximately 45 minutes. A paved road leads directly to the monument's visitor center and parking areas. Ample parking is available at the base of the tower and near the visitor center. No public transport services operate directly to the monument.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Devils Tower is an eroded remnant of a laccolith, a type of igneous intrusion that pushed up surrounding rock layers without erupting onto the surface. It formed approximately 40 to 50 million years ago. The tower is considered sacred by several Native American tribes, including the Lakota, Cheyenne, and Crow. It was established as the United States' first national monument by President Theodore Roosevelt on September 24, 1906.

Key Highlights & Activities

Activities include hiking the 1.3-mile (2.1 km) paved Tower Trail that circles the base of the formation. Rock climbing is permitted on designated routes, though climbing is restricted during June out of respect for Native American ceremonies. Ranger-led programs are offered seasonally. Wildlife viewing opportunities include prairie dogs, pronghorn, and various bird species.

Infrastructure & Amenities

A visitor center is located at the base of the tower, offering exhibits and information. Restrooms are available at the visitor center and at designated picnic areas. Shaded picnic areas are provided. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally available within the monument boundaries, particularly near the visitor center.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is early morning or late afternoon when the sun angle creates dramatic shadows and highlights the tower's texture. The most favorable months for visiting are May through September, offering mild weather. The monument is accessible year-round, but winter conditions can impact road access and trail conditions.

Facts & Legends

The name "Devils Tower" originated from a misinterpretation by an expedition leader in the 1870s, who believed a Native American name referred to a bad spirit. The Lakota name for the tower is "Mato Tipila," meaning "Bear Lodge." A common local tip is to look for the distinct scent of ponderosa pine in the surrounding forests, especially after rain.