Archive · 30 Nov 2025
Ancient Gool Warriors Face Decay Without Preservation
There are old stone carvings of warriors and horses in a place called Gool.
These carvings are very old, but no one knows exactly how old they are.
Some people think they are from the 18th century, while others believe they might be from the time of the Mahabharata or even Alexander the Great's army.
These carvings are outside and not protected, so they are slowly breaking down.
A lot of them were lost in a big flood and landslide in 2014.
The local people call the area 'Ghora Gali' or 'Horse Pass' because of all the horse carvings.
The government has not done much to protect or promote this place, even though it could be important for history and tourism.
The Indian Army has tried to show these carvings to visitors, but they need more help to keep them safe.
Ancient rock-carved warriors and horses in Gool, Jammu region, are decaying due to lack of preservation.
Theories about their origin range from the 18th century to the Mahabharata era or Alexander's army.
Many sculptures were lost in the 2014 J&K floods and landslides.
The site, known locally as 'Ghora Gali' (Horse Pass), has not been transferred to the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for protection.
The Indian Army has taken some steps to highlight the sculptures to visitors, but no concrete preservation efforts have been made by the government.
- Who
- Ancient warriors and horses carved from single pieces of rock
- What
- Decaying rock sculptures in Gool, Jammu region
- When
- Uncertain, theories range from 18th century to Mahabharata era
- Where
- Gool, Ramban district, Jammu region
- Why
- Lack of preservation efforts and exposure to harsh weather
- Location
- Gool, Ramban district, Jammu region
- Condition
- Decaying, exposed to harsh weather
- Preservation Status
- No protective measures in place
- Historical Theories
- 18th century, Mahabharata era, Alexander's army
- Current Custodian
- Local Indian Army unit
- Potential Custodian
- Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)
- Local Name
- Ghora Gali (Horse Pass)
- Recent Threats
- 2014 J&K floods and landslides