India is not only known for its diverse culture but also for its infamous haunted places, which are among the most prominent in the world. These places have a rich history of paranormal activities, which have been passed down through popular traditions and folklore. As time went by, these tales have gained credibility due to the fear they have instilled in people across generations.
Haunted places in India are not just ordinary locations with spooky stories; they have a deep connection with the country’s rich history, culture, and beliefs. The stories and legends associated with these places have been passed down from generation to generation, becoming an integral part of India’s cultural heritage.
Some of the most famous haunted places in India include the Bhangarh Fort in Rajasthan, the Dumas Beach in Gujarat, and the Sanjay Van in Delhi. Each of these locations has its own unique story and paranormal activity associated with it.
Despite modernization and scientific advancements, these tales of paranormal activity continue to fascinate people, and many still believe in their authenticity. The tales of these haunted places have not only gained credibility among the locals but also attract tourists from all over the world who are curious to experience the unexplained phenomena themselves.
Haunted Places
1. Malcha Mahal, Delhi
Following a legal dispute with the Indian government, Princess Wilayat Mahal, granddaughter of the Nawab of Oudh, acquired this property and moved in with her children – Prince Riaz and Princess Sakina. Despite facing numerous challenges, including financial hardships, the Princess lived there until she tragically committed suicide in 1962. Her children continued to reside in the palace with over 20 guard dogs as protection against continuous robberies and unwelcome intruders.
Numerous attempts by journalists and locals to enter and communicate with the residents have been unsuccessful, adding to the mystery surrounding the place. The situation is compounded by the fact that even forest guards avoid this area, further fueling speculation about the strange occurrences within.
2. Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan
Everything was going well in Bhangarh until a tantric, or magician, fell in love with Princess Ratnavati. Knowing that he could never marry her, the tantric turned to black magic to try and win her heart. One day, while the princess’s maid was buying oil in the local market, the tantric successfully cast a spell on it, hoping to hypnotize the princess when she touched it. However, the princess saw him performing the spell and threw the oil away. The tantric was later prosecuted for his actions, but before being punished, he cursed the location, proclaiming that “all who reside in this place will die.”
After the curse was cast, a series of unfortunate events began to occur, leading to the abandonment of the location. Today, it is the only place in India that the government has officially recognized as haunted. The story of the Bhangarh princess and the cursed tantric has become a popular legend in India, with many tourists visiting the site to experience the eerie atmosphere and explore the ruins.
3. Ramoji Film City, Andhra Pradesh
In 1996, the renowned film producer Ramoji Rao constructed a location that offers visitors more than just its impressive appearance. The site is rumored to be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who lost their lives during various wars that took place under the reign of the Nizams.
Several strange incidents have been reported, including visitors being pushed by unseen forces and witnessing unusual figures during both filming and visiting hours. Despite these eerie occurrences, the location remains a popular destination for tourists and film enthusiasts who are intrigued by its history and rumored paranormal activity.
4. Dumas Beach Surat, Gujarat
Legend has it that the beach is haunted, as it was once used as a burial ground, causing the spirits of the deceased to haunt the area. Locals also believe that the beach is cursed due to the presence of black sand, which is said to be the result of the ashes of the dead bodies being mixed with the white sand.
The eerie atmosphere surrounding the beach can have a depressingly negative effect on visitors, instilling negative thoughts in their minds. Despite these beliefs, the beach continues to attract curious visitors who are drawn to its mysterious history and supposed paranormal activity.
5. Shaniwar Wada Fort, Pune
In 1732, the Peshwa Dynasty rulers constructed a remarkable architectural masterpiece known as the castle. However, the castle is infamous for its bone-chilling stories and haunting occurrences. According to legend, a prince who was the heir to the throne was murdered on the orders of a close relative.
Visitors to the castle at night often report hearing the prince’s cries for help, especially during full moon nights, which can be unsettling for those present. As a result, the castle’s eerie atmosphere may not be the most comforting place to be at night. Despite this, the castle continues to fascinate visitors with its unique architecture and intriguing history.
6. Agrasen Ki Baoli, New Delhi
Agrasen Ki Baoli is a remarkable architectural wonder, a stepwell consisting of 103 steps situated in the heart of Delhi and is currently protected by the ASI. This beautiful and impressive structure has become a popular tourist destination. However, it is also well-known for the numerous ghost tales associated with it.
According to these tales, there is an eerie presence that lures visitors down the stairs, with the sound of their own footsteps echoing behind them. Some visitors have reported feeling as though they are being followed by someone or something. Despite these spooky stories, many people find the allure of Agrasen Ki Baoli to be irresistible, and continue to visit it in order to experience its unique atmosphere and history.
7. Lambi Dehar Mines, Uttarakhand
In the 1990s, it is believed that over 50,000 people lost their lives due to inappropriate mining practices in the Lambi Dehar Mines. These workers suffered an excruciating death, coughing and choking on blood.
As a result, the mines were permanently shut down. However, since then, there have been reports of paranormal activities, eerie shrieks, and voices crying out in pain. Furthermore, strange road accidents have become common in this deserted area. It is said that the spirits of the 5,000 deceased mine workers now haunt this location.
8. Three Kings Church, Goa
The church, called after the Three Wise Men, was also once home to three Portuguese kings. Unfortunately, two of these kings were killed by a rival king who was greedy for power and wanted to rule the entire kingdom himself. Outraged by this cruel act, the public demanded justice. Fearing the wrath of the people, the guilty king chose to poison himself instead. Since then, the church has been rumored to be haunted by the spirits of the three kings. Visitors often report feeling a creepy, eerie presence in and around the church.
9. Brij Raj Bhawan Palace, Kota
During the 1857 rebellion, the British resident Major Charles was killed by the rebels. It is rumored that Major’s soul still roams the halls of Brijraj Bhawan Palace. In 1980, the ex-queen claimed to have seen Major in the corridor where he was killed. Interestingly, this corridor was used as her drawing room at that time. However, the spirit of Major seems to have one unpleasant trait – he expects the janitor and the House Keeper to be diligent during their duties. Any negligence such as sleeping or smoking on duty is met with a quick slap from the restless Major’s ghost.
10. Barog Tunnel No.-33, Himachal Pradesh
It is stated that the British engineer Barog committed suicide after making a grave error while constructing the tunnel. He began digging from both ends simultaneously, but his calculations were off, resulting in the two ends not meeting. He was fined one rupee for his mistake, which reportedly left him deeply distressed. One day, he took a walk with his dog and shot himself.
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