10 places where an earthquake became a tourist attraction

Recently, a 7.8 magnitude massive earthquake shook the Philippines. Counted among the most unpredictable natural disasters, earthquakes are mostly remembered for killings and destructions. However, you’ll be surprised to find some places on Earth which were born because of the powerful quakes. In some places, earthquakes have left behind geological wonders, memorials, and landscapes that attract curious travellers from across the globe.

Let’s have a quick look:

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Also known as Quake Lake, this beautiful lake was created on August 18, 1959 when a magnitude 7.3 earthquake triggered a massive landslide in Montana. It blocked the Madison River and Quake Lake was created overnight. Today, travellers visit here and enjoy several recreational activities like boating and hiking.

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Allah Bund, also known as “Dam of God”, was created in 1819 by the Kutch earthquake. It is a natural embankment almost 80 km long. Today, much of it has eroded but whatever remains is one of the most spectacular examples of how an earthquake reshaped the place.

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Lake Sarez was born in 1911 when a massive earthquake-triggered landslide blocked the Murghab River valley in the Pamir Mountains of Tajikistan. Today, the lake, surrounded by mountains, attracts curious adventure travellers from all over.

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In 2016, a 7.8 magnitude earthquake occurred in the South Island of New Zealand which created multiple faults. It is also described as the most complex earthquake ever studied. During the quake, parts of the coastline were lifted by several metres which exposed reefs. Today, this geological wonder attracts tourists and scientists from all over.

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At San Andreas Fault, visitors can walk and hike. It is even possible to stand astride. It is counted among the world's one of the most famous fault lines, where the Pacific and North American tectonic plates meet.

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The park was built in memory of the massive 1976 earthquake in China. The site attracts history enthusiasts and visitors knowing about the disaster heritage.

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Port Royal Archaeological Site is a renowned submerged colonial hub in Jamaica which was also famous as the Wickedest City on Earth. The infamous pirate city sank into the sea during a 1692 earthquake. Today it is one of the most fascinating underwater archaeological sites.

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Fault Scarp Trail in California follows dramatic fault scarps which were created during the 1872 earthquake. The place offers visitors a rare chance to witness the displaced Earth's crust. The place is a famous attraction in the region.

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Located in HAT Kobe, Kobe Earthquake Memorial Park in Japan has a preserved section of waterfront damaged during the 1995 earthquake. It is a powerful reminder of the disaster created by an earthquake in Japan.

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The Wairarapa Fault was created during the 1855 earthquake in North Island. The quake created one of the world's most visible fault scarps, with parts of the landscape still clearly showing the effects of the disaster.​

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