Kols, also known as Koltas or Doms, are the original inhabitants of
Garhwal and believed to be of pre-Dravidian origin. They are dark colored people who, in ancient times, lived in the forests of Garhwal. These people were primarily hunters and food gatherers. Gradually they began to lead family life in small huts. The demons, goblins, Nag and Narsingha are the main gods they worshipped. Now these people come under the category of scheduled castes.
