Man-Pupu-Nyor: The Seven Giants of the Urals
Tucked away in the remote wilderness of the Komi Republic, deep in the heart of the Urals, lies one of Russia’s most mesmerizing natural wonders: Man-Pupu-Nyor, also known as the “Little Mountain of the Gods”. This extraordinary site is home to seven towering rock formations that rise between 30 to 42 meters high, each one shrouded in legend and mystery. Recognized as one of the Seven Wonders of Russia, these monumental stones are not only an awe-inspiring feat of nature but also a testament to ancient tales and the deep spiritual significance they hold in the Mansi culture.
The Enigmatic Seven Giants
Located on the border of Europe and Asia, Man-Pupu-Nyor is one of the most remote and unreachable places in Russia, making it an incredible hidden gem for travelers and adventurers willing to explore its rugged terrain. The seven rock formations—standing like silent sentinels in the wilderness—are believed to be the petrified remains of giants from an ancient Mansi legend.
According to this legend, seven giants once roamed the Ural Mountains, intending to cross into the European side of the Urals. A wise and powerful shaman intervened, casting a spell on the giants to turn them into stone before they could complete their journey. However, in the process, the shaman was also cursed, which explains why one of the stones stands separated from the others, a lonely sentinel in the distance.

These rock formations, composed of sandstone and basalt, are the result of millions of years of erosion in the Urals, which are considered the oldest mountains on Earth. Over time, wind and water slowly wore away the surrounding rock, leaving behind these monolithic pillars that now stand as a striking reminder of nature’s power and time’s passing.
While there are other similar formations scattered throughout the Urals, none have gained as much fame or hold as much cultural significance as the Seven Giants of Man-Pupu-Nyor. Their striking, isolated presence has made them an enduring symbol of mystery and spirituality.
The Mansi People and the Spiritual Significance
The Mansi people, the indigenous group of the region, hold the Man-Pupu-Nyor rock formations in high reverence. Their name for the site, “Little Mountain of the Gods,” reflects the sacredness they attribute to these towering stones. The Mansi people have long believed that these rock giants are not merely natural formations but the embodiment of ancient spirits, standing as guardians over the land and the boundary between realms.
According to Mansi legend, the seven giants were once powerful figures who lived alongside the Mansi people, acting as protectors of the natural world. When the giants were turned to stone, they were forever frozen in time, creating a sacred site where the Mansi would come to seek guidance, blessings, or protection from the spirits of the earth.
The mystical atmosphere surrounding the rock formations has drawn visitors for centuries, and even today, many locals and travelers who make the pilgrimage to the site still hold rituals or ceremonies at the base of the stones to honor the spirits and pay tribute to the ancient forces believed to reside there.
Getting to Man-Pupu-Nyor: A Remote Adventure
Reaching Man-Pupu-Nyor is not for the faint of heart. The site is located far off the beaten path, nestled in the wild, rugged landscape of the Urals. To visit, travelers must journey to the small town of Usva in the Komi Republic, and from there, embark on a multi-day trek through the wilderness, which includes rough terrain, dense forests, and unpredictable weather conditions.
Many adventurers choose to reach Man-Pupu-Nyor by off-road vehicles or all-terrain transport. However, for those looking for a more immersive experience, a hiking expedition is possible, though it requires careful planning and preparation. Because the site is so remote, there are no permanent infrastructure or facilities around the rock formations, making it essential for visitors to bring their own supplies and equipment. The nearest towns are several hours away, making the journey a true test of endurance and resilience.

For those who make the trek, however, the reward is a once-in-a-lifetime experience: standing before the towering, sacred stones of the Seven Giants, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the Ural Mountains. The silence and isolation of the area create a sense of awe and reverence, making it one of the most profound natural experiences in the world.
The Urals: The Oldest Mountains on Earth
The Ural Mountains are believed to be among the oldest mountains on the planet, dating back more than 300 million years. Over that time, the mountains have experienced massive erosion, shaping the dramatic landscapes seen today. The Man-Pupu-Nyor formations are a living example of this geological history, standing as monumental pillars that have weathered the passage of time.
The Urals themselves have long been a cultural and historical crossroads, serving as the natural dividing line between Europe and Asia. This region has been home to various indigenous cultures, including the Mansi, Komi, and Khanty peoples, each of whom has their own traditions and stories that have been passed down through the generations.
Aside from its spiritual significance, the Ural region is also home to rich biodiversity and a wealth of mineral resources. For centuries, it has played an important role in both the natural and human history of Russia.
Why Visit Man-Pupu-Nyor?
Man-Pupu-Nyor is not just a natural wonder; it is a place that inspires wonder and reflection. It offers visitors a chance to connect with the ancient world, both in terms of the geological history of the Ural Mountains and the spiritual and cultural significance of the land to the Mansi people. The solitude and majesty of the site make it a unique and transformative destination for adventurers and seekers alike.
For nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore one of the most untouched and mystical corners of the world, a visit to the Seven Giants of Man-Pupu-Nyor is an unforgettable experience. Whether you come for the breathtaking beauty of the towering rock formations, the rich cultural heritage of the Mansi people, or simply to experience the sheer remoteness of this awe-inspiring location, Man-Pupu-Nyor offers something that few other places on Earth can.
Fun Fact: Despite its remote location and difficult access, Man-Pupu-Nyor has been named one of Russia’s Seven Wonders, a testament to the cultural, geological, and mystical significance of this remarkable natural site. If you’re ever in Russia, make sure to add this sacred rock formation to your bucket list!