Basaltic Columnar Rock Formations at St. Mary’s Islands in Udupi

A wide horizontal eye-level perspective captures the iconic hexagonal columnar basalt rock formations jutting out into the Arabian Sea at St. Mary’s Islands (Thonsepar) off the coast of Malpe in Udupi, Karnataka, India. Declared a National Geological Monument, these unique reddish-brown volcanic lava formations display geometric vertical jointing as ocean waves crash against their base. The turquoise sea and hazy horizon highlight the rugged, ancient coastal geology created millions of years ago during subaerial volcanic activity. Ideal for geological research publications, geotourism guidebooks, nature features, and coastal landscape stock displays.