Unravel the Past from the Present

Geology of Meghalaya

The Geological Gallery collection comprises the finest and most extensive collection of rocks, fossils and minerals found in and around Meghalaya. The gallery's novelty is exemplified by the rock variants formation, representing the stratigraphic succession of Meghalaya geology and is occupied by igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. These rocks range in age from approximately 2.5 million years (Late Archaean to Early Proterozoic) to the Meghalayan Age.The exhibit features the world's most incredible Shillong Plateau’s speleothem, a stalagmite that holds the GSSP (Global Boundary Stratotype Section and Point) of the youngest unit of the geologic time scale - the Meghalayan age. An exceptionally valuable collection of well-preserved fossil discoveries in Meghalaya, encompassing vertebrates, mega-vertebrates and microfossils along with flora assemblages are prominently displayed. A collection in the gallery highlights the earth’s resources of Meghalaya, essential for the burgeoning mineral-based industries in and outside the state.
Special exhibitions at the gallery include wall panels depicting the Meghalayan age, detailing its integration in Earth's geological history, and a panoramic view of Mawmluh Cave, a global IUGS Geological Heritage Site that showcases the chamber where the speleothem originated.

Exploring the Exhibit

As one walks into the Geology exhibit, they are immediately introduced to samples of various geological formations found all over the state of Meghalaya. Here, each section highlights formations of a certain district, fossils that have been found at various sites and prehistoric formations and samples formed in the region. This exhibit may be one of the most comprehensive collection of Meghalaya's Geological treasures in the State.

Digging Through Time: Fossil Trails of Meghalaya

In recent decades, many fossils have been discovered in Meghalaya. Most of Meghalaya, prehistorically being under the ocean has made it a hotbed for marine fossils. However, due to weathering and erosion, fossils have flown down into the region, becoming some of the regions biggest discoveries. The Museum houses a few samples of these fossils.