Natural karst and volcanic fracturing offer geological explanation for shaft features. Alexander Sploshnov explored the site in 2021 and produced 3D mapping and clearer images Karst formations (spelled KARST) can create blocky underground chambers and straight shafts through water flow, matching the 3D scan features Volcanic lava cores fracture into geometric, right-angled columns when they split
When Alexander Sploshnov 3D-mapped the shaft in 2021, the results pointed to a natural origin. Karst water erosion can carve remarkably geometric underground chambers, and cooling lava flows fracture into right-angled columns — potentially explaining the "precision-cut" appearance. Closer inspection revealed the columns aren't perfectly aligned, suggesting natural fracturing rather than human construction. The site is now under military lockdown, and a former Russian soldier claimed Soviets explored the area during the Cold War as a potential weapons bunker. Geology may be the most grounded explanation here. ⛰️
Key Facts
- Alexander Sploshnov explored the site in 2021 and produced 3D mapping and clearer images
- Karst formations (spelled KARST) can create blocky underground chambers and straight shafts through water flow, matching the 3D scan features
- Volcanic lava cores fracture into geometric, right-angled columns when they split
- The main chamber is narrow/skinny, and the columns are not perfectly aligned, suggesting natural fracturing rather than precise human construction
- Some surrounding areas show evidence of human quarrying activity, possibly from ancient, Nazi, Soviet, or more recent intervention
- A Reddit user "Long Pickle" reported a former Russian soldier claimed the Soviets explored Khara-Hora during the Cold War as a potential underground weapons storage unit
- The area is currently under military lockdown, preventing further independent exploration
Source: The Khara-Hora Shaft Enigma by Funny Olde World