India is a land steeped in history, mystery, and folklore. Among its many tales, some places are renowned for their eerie atmospheres and spine-chilling legends. Here are seven of the most haunted locations in India that have captivated the imagination of many:
1. Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan
Often cited as the most haunted place in India, Bhangarh Fort is located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan. Built in the 16th century by Raja Madho Singh, the fort is surrounded by tales of paranormal activity. One legend speaks of a tantrik (holy man) who fell in love with the princess of Bhangarh. After she rejected his advances, he cursed the fort, leading to its eventual ruin. The Archaeological Survey of India has even placed a board warning visitors not to enter the fort after sunset due to its haunted reputation.
2. Kuldhara Village, Rajasthan
Situated near Jaisalmer, Kuldhara was once a thriving village inhabited by the Paliwal Brahmin community. According to legend, the villagers abandoned the settlement overnight to escape the oppressive taxes imposed by the state minister, who also sought to marry the village chief’s daughter. The village remains deserted to this day, and locals believe it is cursed, with some claiming to hear whispers and footsteps at night.
3. Shaniwarwada Fort, Pune
Built in the 18th century, Shaniwarwada Fort in Pune was the seat of the Peshwa rulers of the Maratha Empire. The fort is infamous for the tragic death of Narayanrao, the young Peshwa, who was allegedly murdered by his uncle and aunt. It is said that his ghost still haunts the fort, with visitors reporting hearing his cries of “Kaka mala vachava” (Uncle, save me) during full moon nights.
4. Dumas Beach, Surat
Located in Gujarat, Dumas Beach is known for its black sand and mysterious occurrences. Once a burial ground, the beach is believed to be haunted by spirits. Visitors have reported hearing whispers and voices urging them to leave, and some claim to have seen apparitions. The beach’s eerie atmosphere has made it a subject of numerous ghost stories.
5. Fernhill Hotel, Ooty
The Fernhill Hotel in Ooty, Tamil Nadu, gained notoriety after the filming of the Bollywood horror movie Raaz. During the shoot, crew members reported hearing strange noises and feeling unexplained cold spots, despite there being no floor above them. The hotel has since been abandoned, with many believing it to be haunted by restless spirits.
6. Ramoji Film City, Hyderabad
Spanning over 2,000 acres, Ramoji Film City in Hyderabad is one of the largest film studio complexes in the world. Built on land that was once a battlefield, the area is said to be haunted by the spirits of fallen soldiers. Crew members have reported unexplained incidents, such as equipment malfunctioning and crew members being pushed by unseen forces, particularly during night shoots.
7. Grand Paradi Towers, Mumbai
Located in South Mumbai, the Grand Paradi Towers are infamous for a series of suicides that occurred in the 1990s. Residents and visitors have reported hearing unexplained noises and feeling an eerie presence in the building. The towers’ dark history and the tragic events associated with them have contributed to their haunted reputation.
Conclusion
These haunted places in India are not just tourist attractions but also a testament to the rich tapestry of stories and legends that have been passed down through generations. Whether one believes in the supernatural or not, visiting these sites offers a glimpse into the mysteries that continue to intrigue and captivate.