Umpherston Sinkhole or Balumbul History
Umpherston Sinkhole or Balumbul is a natural Sinkhole today operating as a “Beautiful Garden” once typically a limestone cave. But over a period of time this limestone cave formed through the dissolution of soluble rocks. Initially Sinkholes formed through small erosion of limestones by sea water waves and ground water continue to erode its chamber’s roof. Today Umpherston Sinkhole is considered as the natural geological formation located in Mount Gambier, South Australia.
There is some historical evidence that proves that Umpherston Sinkhole was once dominated by the Australian Indigenous tribes. From the beginning they believed Sinkhole is more sacred and a landmark which was used for navigation and resource gathering. Interestingly, Sinkhole was unknown for many years until 1886, when James Umpherston discovered and made it as a garden. James Umperston made a significant contribution to this Umpherston Sinkhole and he added beautiful terraced gardens.
Today Umpherston Sinkhole is one of the spectacular gardens that has become a most underrated travel destination in Australia. Place often considered as the great place to learn geological and natural beauty to an enthusiastic backpacker.
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6 Fun Facts about Umpherston Sinkhole or Balumbul
1. Interesting Geological Formations
First and Foremost thing we should discuss under Umpherston Sinkhole its geological formations. Sinkhole is the greatest example for karst topography which formed due to the collapse of underground limestone caves through seawater waves and continuous erosion. Later on this dramatic sinkhole was converted as a beautiful garden which today attracts millions of visitors from its intrinsic geological features and natural beauty. Its total width and depth add more value to its beauty.
2. Land of Indigenous Tribes
According to some evidence and researchers, Umpherston Sinkhole was once a home for Australian Indigenous tribes. Boandik peoples or Balumbul tribes are lived here and had a deep connection to this land. They strongly believed Sinkhole is more sacred and a landmark used for navigation and resource gathering. These local aboriginal communities revered similar karst features for generations.
3. Interesting Hidden Water Source
Despite its gardens and unique karst topography, Sinkhole also contains a water body where it often collects waters from rain and runoffs. Later it formed as small ponds or streams that served as drinking water source to local wildlife and supplying to gardens daily activities especially during summer season.
4. Australia’s Major Tourist Hub
Despite being one of Australia’s underrated travel destinations, Umpherston Sinkhole is a major Australian landmark. Since the landmark contains unique geology, beautiful gardens, spelunkings and surrounding natures, is waiting to discover yet by the global backpacker.
5. Home for Diverse Flora and Faunas
Umpherston Sinkhole often known as “Sunken Garden”, where abundance of flora and hanging vines are available. Home for display of hydrangeas, tree ferns and beautiful flowers. Faunas include Mammals such as Koalas, possums and kangaroos are major ones including some bird species.
6. Adventure Hub
If you are an adventure seeker, you need to visit Umpherston Sinkhole, surely it won’t disappoint you. Place filled with caves, underground chambers, sinkholes and beautiful gardens make it a great place to enjoy adventure feelings. Terraces and Walkways are popular ones, which include long ramps. Never miss to experience ‘Sunken Garden’ and Underground Caves.
Umpherston Sinkhole Tickets
Tickets are not required to enter Umpherston Sinkhole, which is completely free of cost.
Umpherston Sinkhole Opening Hours
It is open 24 hours a day and operates 7 days a week year round. But garden spotlights operate till 1 am each night.
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