Manpupuner rock formations

Manpupuner is a group of seven stone pillars on a high plateau in the Komi Republic, Russia. The rocks stand between 30 and 42 meters (98 and 138 feet) tall and display different profiles through natural weathering over millions of years.

Wind and water shaped these pillars from harder rock while softer layers of the surroundings disappeared over millions of years. The rocks are remnants of a mountain range that stood here about 200 million years ago.

The Mansi call these stone pillars by names such as warriors or gods and tell stories about petrified giants from ancient times. Hikers often notice the particular silence around the rocks, which are still respected as a sacred place today.

Access requires a multi-day guided expedition with hiking through forests and across open terrain. Weatherproof clothing and sufficient supplies are necessary since the nearest settlements are far away.

Six pillars stand on the flat plateau while the seventh stands somewhat apart near the edge. The shape of an inverted bottle is particularly noticeable in the tallest pillar and often serves visitors as a landmark.