Krishna's Butter Ball
Mahabalipuram, India
- Enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding landscape
- Explore nearby rock carvings and monuments
- Learn about the legends surrounding the boulder
- Take photos with the balancing rock
Known for:
Description:
Krishna's Butter Ball is a giant, precariously balanced rock boulder located in Mahabalipuram, India. This massive granite boulder, estimated to weigh over 250 tons, appears to defy gravity as it rests on a smooth, sloping rock surface. It's a popular tourist attraction, drawing visitors who marvel at its seemingly impossible position and attempt to dislodge it (unsuccessfully, of course!). The site offers fantastic photo opportunities and is a testament to the natural geological wonders of the region. The surrounding area is also dotted with other rock formations and carvings, making it a worthwhile stop on any Mahabalipuram itinerary. You can spend hours taking pictures from different angles and trying to understand the science behind it.
History:
The geological formation of Krishna's Butter Ball is a natural phenomenon, a result of erosion and weathering over millennia. While there's no specific historical event tied directly to its formation, local legend attributes it to the Hindu god Krishna. The story goes that Krishna, as a child, had a fondness for butter, and the boulder represents a dollop of butter dropped by him. In 1908, the then-Governor of Madras, Arthur Lawley, attempted to move the boulder, fearing it was a safety hazard. Elephants were employed to push the rock, but all efforts proved futile, further cementing the legend and the rock's immovable status. Today, it stands as a popular landmark and a reminder of the region's rich cultural heritage.