India, with its rich history and diverse cultural tapestry, is home to numerous haunted locations that have captured the imagination of thrill-seekers and ghost enthusiasts. This article will take you on a spine-tingling journey through some of the most haunted places in India. Each location is shrouded in eerie legends and chilling ghost stories, making them unique destinations for the daring traveler seeking an otherworldly experience.
1. Bhangarh Fort: The Most Haunted Place in India Nestled amidst the serene, verdant hills of the Aravallis lies the captivating Bhangarh Fort, a historic gem located approximately 50 kilometers from the Sariska Sanctuary, halfway between the cities of Jaipur and Alwar in Rajasthan, India. This architectural marvel traces its origins to the 17th century when it was commissioned by Raja Madho Singh, the younger brother of the illustrious Mughal general, Man Singh of Amber. In its prime, Bhangarh thrived as a bustling town boasting over 9,000 houses, a testament to its former grandeur. Guarded by three successive fortifications and fortified by five imposing gates, the fort’s expansive grounds are still adorned with the remnants of grand havelis, ancient temples and deserted marketplaces, bearing witness to the affluence it once enjoyed. Despite its reputation as one of most haunted places in India, Bhangarh Fort continues to attract tourists, not only for its historical significance but also for the unique sense of mystique that pervades the air within its time-worn walls.
A visit to Bhangarh Fort is a journey through time, allowing exploration of the ruins of temples, palaces and havelis that echo with the whispers of centuries past. The fort retains its majestic allure even in its current state of partial ruin, featuring four entry points alongside the main gate – the Lahori Gate, the Ajmeri Gate, the Phulbari Gate and the Delhi Gate. Amidst its dilapidated grandeur, the fort’s natural surroundings of lush Aravalli Mountains enhance its charm. At the main entrance, a collection of Hindu temples welcomes visitors, including the Gopinath Temple, Someshwar Temple, Keshav Rai Temple, Mangla Devi Temple and Ganesh Temple. These temples showcase exquisite 17th-century Nagara architectural style. The Gopinath Temple, elevated on a 14-foot plinth adorned with intricate stone carvings, is particularly remarkable. Within the temple complex, the Purohitji Ki Haveli, the residence of the head priest, stands as a testament to the fort’s architectural finesse. Amidst the fort’s precincts, numerous grand havelis, now in various states of ruin, offer glimpses into its opulent past. Among these, the Nartakiyon Ki Haveli, once the dwelling of dancing girls, holds a prominent place. Furthermore, the fort’s boundaries encompass a market area, with the remnants of the royal palace gracing its farthest end. While the royal palace was reputed to have once featured seven stories, today, only four of those stories remain. As captivating as its historical splendor is the aura of mystery that pervades Bhangarh Fort, making it a destination that beckons not just to history enthusiasts but also to those intrigued by the enigmatic and the supernatural making it one of the prominent haunted places in India .
How to Reach: Bhangarh Fort is accessible by road and is approximately a 3-hour drive from Jaipur, the nearest major city.
2. Dow Hill, Kurseong: Whispering Ghosts in the Himalayas Situated at a mere distance of about 30 kilometers from the charming hill station of Darjeeling, Dow Hill in Kurseong, often referred to as the “Land of White Orchids,” presents itself as an inviting destination for a quick escapade. Despite the shadow cast by its more famous neighbor, Darjeeling, Dow Hill has carved a niche for itself owing to its mysterious allure and eerie legends that continue to draw travelers from far and wide.
The spine-chilling allure of Dow Hill is amplified by the enigmatic locales and ghostly tales that envelop this otherwise picturesque hill station. One such eerie spot is the infamous ‘death road,’ a perilous stretch that links Dow Hill Road with the Forest Office. This treacherous path is not for the faint-hearted, as it is shrouded in terrifying tales that have been recounted by local woodcutters. Among these tales, one of a headless ghost of a young boy casually strolling and vanishing into the forest stands out. Travelers and locals alike claim to have experienced an unsettling sensation of being followed and watched by an unknown entity, particularly within the depths of the forest. Some have reported eerie encounters, such as sighting a red eye peering at them or witnessing the specter of a grey-clad woman running frenziedly through the woods, seemingly in pursuit of something. The forest resounds with the haunting echoes of children’s cries and the wails of mothers. Locals vehemently advise against venturing into this eerie realm after nightfall, as the air here is said to be so laden with malevolence that unfortunate visitors have purportedly either lost their sanity or met untimely ends.
Adding to Dow Hill’s aura of mystery is the Victoria Boys School, located in close proximity to the enigmatic woods that have witnessed countless tragedies. Rumors of haunting extend to this institution, infusing it with an ominous and somber atmosphere that lingers, as attested by the local populace. Nestled in the rugged terrain of Kurseong, this school has been in operation since 1879 and has accumulated a wealth of legends over the years. Some accounts suggest that during the months when the school remains closed, from December to March, faint whispers and footsteps emanate from within the school premises, despite it being apparently vacant. Guards posted during the holiday season have reported hearing the voices of boys echoing through the corridors and locals have made claims of seeing a spectral boy peering from the windows. Some even speak of a headless child haunting the school grounds. The school authorities, however, maintain that there has never been an accidental or natural death within the school premises.
How to Reach: Kurseong can be reached by road or rail from Kolkata. Dow Hill is a short drive from Kurseong town. Dow Hill is best explored between the hours of 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., ensuring a daytime visit that is sure to keep the adventurous spirit enthralled.
3. Dumas Beach, Gujarat: Where the Dead Speak Through the Wind By day, Dumas Beach might seem like a slice of heaven along the Arabian Sea, drawing numerous tourists to its shores. However, as the sun sets, it transforms into a realm of the supernatural.
Situated in Surat, Gujarat, this beach holds the reputation of being one of the most haunted places in India. It’s known for its unique black sand, which, according to folklore, is a result of the ash generated from cremations mixing with the white sand, turning it dark. The beach is believed to have been a Hindu burial ground and it is said that the spirits of the departed never truly left. As night falls, an eerie atmosphere descends upon the place and most visitors wisely choose to leave. Those brave enough to spend the night often return with harrowing stories of their experiences. Reports of paranormal activities, mysterious disappearances and strange sounds echoing through the deserted beach have left people baffled. Some even claim to have witnessed white apparitions, moving orbs and other unexplainable occurrences. Dumas Beach is a place where the line between fact and fiction becomes blurred, leaving visitors intrigued yet wary of its supernatural aura.
How to Reach: Surat is well-connected by rail and road and Dumas Beach is just a short drive from the city center. Various local transport options are available from the city to reach this enigmatic and hauntingly beautiful destination
4. Kuldhara Village, Rajasthan: A Deserted Ghost Town Kuldhara, located approximately 17 kilometers west of the city of Jaisalmer, is a ghost village that holds the echoes of a prosperous past but is now veiled in enigmatic silence. Over three centuries ago, this village thrived as a vibrant community. Established in 1291 by the Paliwal Brahmins, Kuldhara owed its prosperity to the remarkable ability of its residents to cultivate bountiful crops in the unforgiving desert terrain. However, the village’s fate took a dark and mysterious turn one fateful night in 1825.
Legend has it that Salim Singh, the malevolent prime minister of the region, cast his covetous gaze upon the daughter of the village head and declared his intention to marry her, whether she consented or not. He issued dire threats to the villagers, demanding compliance with his wishes. Faced with this tyrannical ultimatum, the village council made a fateful decision – they would forsake their ancestral homes and leave the village under the cover of night. Before departing, they laid a curse upon Kuldhara, ensuring that it would remain forever uninhabited. This curse has held true, as no one has been able to spend even a single night in the forsaken village since that ominous departure.
Today, the ruins of Kuldhara stand as a poignant testament to the architectural brilliance of that era, beckoning photographers and filmmakers to capture the essence of its narrow lanes and crumbling structures. The village has earned protection as a historical monument under the auspices of the State Archaeology Department, preserving both its intriguing history and the unsettling aura that lingers among its abandoned remnants.
How to Reach: Kuldhara is a short drive from Jaisalmer and is accessible by road.
5. Shaniwarwada Fort, Pune: The Ghost of a Young Prince Pune, a city steeped in history and heritage, proudly showcases the 286-year-old Shaniwar Wada fort, an emblem of the illustrious Maratha Empire’s legacy. This magnificent fort is not only renowned but also holds an eminent place in the region’s history. Originally constructed as the residence of the Peshwas, it sprawls over a vast expanse of approximately 625 acres of land. The fort, once a bustling center of culture and politics, now stands as a popular attraction that welcomes nearly 300 tourists from around the world daily. However, the passage of time has not been kind to this grand edifice, as it has weathered numerous military attacks and devastating fires during the 18th and 19th centuries, leaving it in a state of disrepair. The once-majestic mansion, boasting seven stories, fortified walls with grand gateways, court halls, fountains and reservoirs, now lies in ruins.
Shaniwar Wada is not just a historical relic; it is a place where stories of love, political intrigue, betrayal, family strife and brutal murder have unfolded. Built in 1732, shortly after the marriage of Baji Rao and Kashi, it served as the Maratha Empire’s seat of power. While the world may be familiar with the epic love story of Bajirao Mastani, Shaniwar Wada has also witnessed darker tales. Among these narratives is the chilling account of one of the most brutal murders in Maratha Empire history. In 1732, Shaniwar Wada bore witness to the untimely demise of Peshwa Bajirao I, setting off a chain of events that would leave a bloody mark on its history. The power struggle that ensued among his descendants, marked by deceit and ruthless ambition, ultimately led to the horrifying murder of Narayanrao, an event that still haunts the fort to this day. People claim to hear his cries for help and after 6:30 p.m., entry to the fort is strictly prohibited.
Shaniwar Wada, with its enigmatic history and eerie legends, remains a compelling attraction in Pune. Despite much of the fort succumbing to the ravages of time and fire, some parts stand as a testament to its former glory. Visitors can explore features like the lotus-shaped Hazari Karanji fountain, the five gateways (Delhi Darwaza, Khidki Darwaza, Ganesh Darwaza, Narayan Darwaza and Mastani Darwaza) and the nine bastion forts with a garden complex near the Mula Mutha river in Kasba Peth. The main entrance greets visitors with a statue of Peshwa Baji Rao. Additionally, a captivating light and sound show at Shaniwar Wada Palace educates and enthralls visitors with its 55-minute presentation in Marathi and English, which starts in the evening. While exploring the fort, visitors should note that there is an entry fee, ranging from five to 125 rupees for national and international tourists and the fort is open every day from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Located approximately 148 kilometers from Mumbai, the best way to experience Shaniwar Wada is to book a cab to the fort, allowing your imagination to wander freely as you stroll amidst the crumbling walls of this historical marvel.
How to Reach: Pune is well-connected by road and rail and Shaniwarwada Fort is located in the heart of the city.
6. Echoes of the Past: The Haunting Tale of Himachal’s Barog Tunnel The allure of Shimla is undeniably enchanting, earning its title as the Queen of Hill Stations and beckoning countless tourists to its picturesque landscapes. Amidst the myriad of activities that one can partake in while exploring Shimla’s wonders, a train journey stands out as a truly unique experience. The train winds its way through the rugged mountains, traversing numerous tunnels that burrow deep into the earth. Among these tunnels, the Shimla-Kalka route boasts one of the longest, a straight passage that seems to stretch time itself, enveloping passengers for over two mesmerizing minutes. Emerging from this tunnel, one arrives at the Barog railway station, a momentous waypoint on this thrilling journey. However, the mystique surrounding this tunnel extends beyond its engineering marvel; it carries whispers of the supernatural.
This tunnel, Tunnel No 33, bears the name of Colonel Barog, a figure believed to linger in the shadows of its dark recesses and one of the haunting places of India. The Haunting Tale of Shimla’s Barog Tunnel. In 1898, Colonel Barog, a diligent railway engineer, was entrusted with the formidable task of constructing this tunnel within a defined timeframe. With meticulous calculations, he instructed laborers to bore through the mountain from both ends, aiming to meet in the middle and expedite the project. Sadly, Colonel Barog’s calculations proved tragically erroneous; the laborers, toiling tirelessly from opposing ends, failed to converge at the tunnel’s center. This costly blunder led to Colonel Barog’s dismissal and a hefty government fine, inciting the ire of the labor force. Overwhelmed by humiliation and despair, the colonel took his own life one fateful night while walking with his loyal pet dog. The dog’s frantic attempts to seek help proved futile and Colonel Barog passed away, his final resting place marked outside the incomplete tunnel, a tribute to his ill-fated endeavor. Yet, locals insist that his spirit never truly departed.
Legend has it that Colonel Barog’s restless soul continues to haunt Tunnel No 33. Stories abound of his spectral presence, occasionally engaging in eerie conversations with unwitting travelers who remain unaware of his ethereal existence. Those who recognize him are sent into shivers of fear. Despite multiple attempts by the government to seal off the unfinished tunnel, the locks are repeatedly broken, as if Colonel Barog’s ghostly presence insists on remaining accessible. Remarkably, his spirit is not deemed malevolent; rather, he is considered a benevolent and amiable entity, causing no harm to those who cross his path. Nevertheless, the knowledge that he lingers on, long after death, infuses the tunnel’s atmosphere with an eerie and unsettling aura that continues to captivate the imagination of those who venture into its depths.
How to Reach: Agra is well-connected by road and rail and Taj Ganj is a short distance from the Taj Mahal.
7. GP Block, Meerut: The Haunted House In the realm of India’s most spine-tingling locales, GP Block in Meerut emerges as a captivating enigma, where the line between the living and the supernatural appears to blur. In a country replete with haunted spots, GP Block earns its reputation through a potent blend of chilling encounters and an aura that sends shivers down the bravest of spines.
This forsaken block is a trio of buildings that have languished in abandonment since the 1930s, their interiors echoing with a haunting emptiness. Not a single soul has dared to make these structures their home. The mere mention of GP Block is enough to conjure visions of the uncanny, as it is steeped in tales of spectral apparitions. A cursory online search yields a trove of anecdotes, with eyewitnesses recounting eerie sightings. Some speak of a mysterious woman, draped in a crimson gown, perched upon the rooftop, while others claim to have witnessed four spectral figures indulging in a spectral revelry, their ethereal forms swaying with invisible mirth.
Yet, despite these tales of the supernatural that have circulated for generations, those who seek to unveil the truth behind GP Block’s enigma often find themselves facing inscrutable mysteries. A local report tells of courageous students from a nearby school who dared to venture into the abandoned structures, only to be met with inexplicable phenomena that hastened their hasty retreat. Another account reveals the peculiar case of a family of six, entrusted with the role of caretakers by the Army, who resided on the ground floor of one of the buildings. For over six months, most family members reported nothing out of the ordinary. However, the mother, alone among them, claimed to have had a chilling encounter with a lady in red—a sighting that left her trembling with fear.
GP Block, nestled in the Cantt area of the city, has become a focal point of debate among the locals. It’s a place where opinions are sharply divided, with some staunchly convinced of its paranormal nature, while others dismiss it as mere folklore. As for the ultimate truth, it remains elusive and GP Block retains its position among most haunting places of India, forever steeped in eerie legends. The question lingers: Would you dare to explore its mysterious depths and unravel its secrets?
How to Reach: Meerut is well-connected by road and rail and GP Block is located within the city.
8. Fernhill Hotel, Ooty: The Ghostly Bride Tucked amidst the scenic splendor of Ooty is the Fern Hill Hotel, a place of breathtaking landscapes and an intriguing tale that has earned it a spot among the haunted locales in the region. Once serving as a summer residence for the Mysore Maharaja, this hotel conceals a ghostly secret within its majestic walls.
According to local folklore, the Fern Hill Hotel is infamous for its eerie atmosphere and palpable low vibrations. The mysterious story that haunts this place revolves around the tragic suicide of a young woman within its premises. The hotel was temporarily closed for renovations around March 2018, but the real reason for this closure remains shrouded in speculation. Many believe that it was prompted by a series of unnerving and unexplained incidents that sent shivers down the spines of those who witnessed them.
As you step into the Fern Hill Hotel, you’re greeted by interiors that are a visual delight, exuding warmth and comfort. However, the vastness of the palace and its peculiar ambiance can’t help but stir a sense of unease. It’s as if the old adage, “Everything that is dark in the eyes of the Lord is a demon,” comes to life within these walls. Visitors often recount their experiences and one particular story that drew attention to the hotel was the shooting of the movie ‘Raaz,’ which took place here.
During the filming of ‘Raaz,’ the actress herself shared a spine-chilling account. The film crew reported hearing strange sounds, like furniture being dragged and replaced, throughout the night. When they inquired with the reception about the noisy disturbances coming from the room above, they were shocked to learn that there was no room above theirs. The receptionist even confirmed this by taking them outside to prove it. This unnerving incident sent shivers down the spines of the ‘Raaz’ team. While some may dismiss it as a publicity stunt for the movie, numerous other peculiar incidents add credence to the eerie reputation of the Fern Hill Hotel.
This sprawling 500-acre haven of lush greenery and luxurious accommodations now boasts not only scenic beauty but also a chilling ghost story that has garnered widespread recognition, making it one of the most talked-about haunted places in India.
How to Reach: Ooty is well-connected by road and is accessible by the Nilgiri Mountain Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
9. Lambi Dehar Mines, Mussoorie: A Dark History and Haunting Tales Mussoorie, one of India’s most renowned hill stations, is synonymous with picturesque landscapes and enchanting weather. However, beneath its captivating beauty lies a realm of dark secrets. From the eerie Hotel Savoy to the enigmatic Pari Tibba, from the mysterious Mullinagar Mansion to the haunting Lambi Dehar Mines, Mussoorie holds its share of mysteries.
Among these enigmas, Lambi Dehar Mines stands out as one of the most notorious haunted places in India. It is a place marred by tragedy, where the agonizing cries of nearly 50,000 laborers who perished in pain still seem to echo through the night. Local residents residing nearby attest to hearing these ghostly voices after sundown.
In the year 1990, Lambi Dehar Mines was a bustling hub for limestone mining, employing a substantial workforce. Unfortunately, lax safety measures prevailed, leading to dire consequences. Workers began suffering from severe respiratory issues, eventually coughing up blood and tragically, all of them succumbed to their afflictions. The mine, forever tainted by this horrific incident, was subsequently shut down and has remained so ever since.
In the aftermath of this tragedy, numerous reports of paranormal activities began to surface, alongside a series of unfortunate accidents and even a helicopter crash within the vicinity. Local residents have also claimed to have witnessed the apparition of a malevolent witch roaming the area at night.
For those skeptical of the supernatural, the allure of uncovering the veracity of Lambi Dehar Mines’ paranormal activities remains. The best way to satiate one’s curiosity is to venture into the mines after nightfall and personally witness the enigma that shrouds this haunting place.
How to Reach: Mussoorie is accessible by road from Dehradun, the nearest major city.
10. Raj Kiran Hotel, Lonavala: The Room with a Haunting Presence
Lonavala, nestled within the lush landscapes of Maharashtra, is a beloved retreat for denizens of Mumbai and Pune, particularly during the monsoon months when the region is draped in emerald greenery and the climate is incredibly inviting. Amidst the burgeoning tourism industry in this picturesque town, numerous hotels have sprung up in every nook and cranny. One such establishment is Raj Kiran and it carries with it an eerie reputation.
One might assume that this hotel hides in some remote corner on the outskirts of Lonavala, but it sits right within the bustling city. Yet, its notoriety as a haunted place in India persists. Guests who have sojourned here have reported peculiar occurrences within one particular room, located on the ground floor behind the reception area. The hotel staff is well aware of these inexplicable incidents and nowadays, the room is only allocated to guests under exceptional circumstances, if at all. This precaution stems from the unsettling phenomena witnessed within.
Accounts of bedsheets mysteriously being tugged away in the dead of night, glimpses of an eerie blue light near one’s feet and an unshakable sensation of an unseen presence in the room have become commonplace. Many guests who have occupied this room have complained of an unsettling aura and have eagerly sought room changes. The accommodating staff, cognizant of the room’s eerie reputation, readily complies with such requests. The enigma surrounding these unsettling events remains unsolved, but few dare to linger within its confines once they’ve sensed something amiss. The question remains: would you dare to spend a night in this room
How to Reach: Lonavala is well-connected by road and rail from Mumbai and Pune.
Haunted places in India offer travelers a different kind of adventure, one that explores the realms of the unknown and the supernatural. From the cursed walls of Bhangarh Fort to the eerie silence of Kuldhara, each of these haunted locations has its own chilling legend and ghostly lore. For the brave-hearted traveler, a visit to these haunted places in India promises an unforgettable and spine-tingling experience that transcends the ordinary. However, be prepared to step into the realm of the unknown and confront the mysteries of the afterlife in these eerie destinations.
