Geology in parts of Sainj Valley,Kulu district,Himachal Pradesh

The paper highlights the findings of photogeological studies, with selective field checks, carried out in Sainj Valley. For the first time, a photogeological map of the area has been prepared using large scale aerial photographs Structurally the area forms‘Window in a Window’ structure as the oldest rocks of Kulu formation are thrusted over the younger rocks of Larji Group (Larji and Banjar formations) and further Banjars are thrusted over Larjis. Thus, Larjis being stratigraphically youngest, occupy the lowest tectonic position. The Kulu formation mainly consists of Central Crystalline, schists and gneisses. Banjar is composed of quartzite, metabasics, slate and phyllite. Larji predominantly consists of dolomite and quartzite with slate and phyllite. The photogeological studies have helped to bring out the lineament pattern, landslide zones, major structural trends and main geological formations. The lineaments mainly trend in NNE-SSW, NW-SE, NE-SW and NNW-SSE directions. A key for photo-characters of different litho units and terrain elements of the area is established.