India, known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and rich history, harbours some spine-chilling places that will send shivers down your spine. From haunted forts to eerie wilderness, these destinations offer a unique blend of the mystical, the historic, and the downright terrifying. If you're a thrill-seeker with a fascination for the supernatural and a penchant for the eerie, here are five scary places in India that will leave you spooked.
Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan
Built by Raja Madho Singh, the younger brother of Man Singh, this 16th-century fort is located about 50km from the Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary. However, it has an eerie history in addition to its stunning Havelis and archaeological structures.
A local legend claims that a Tantrik fell in love with Princess Ratnavati of Bhangarh. He used black magic to win her over, but when she learned of this, she tossed the bewitched oil she intended to use on a rock, crushing the Tantrik in the process. Before he passed away, the Tantrik cursed the community to be destroyed. Even now, visitors are not permitted close to the fort after sundown, and some tourists have reported ghostly activity there.
Getting There
Bhangarh Fort is accessible by road from major cities like Jaipur and Delhi. To reach Bhangarh from Jaipur, take a taxi or drive approximately 85 kilometres southwest on NH21 to Dausa and then head east on State Highway 55 for another 20 kilometres. Alternatively, you can hire a taxi or take a bus from Delhi, which is around 260 kilometres away.
Jamali Kamali Mosque And Tomb, Delhi
The mosques of Jamali (a well-known Sufi poet) and Kamali (an unidentified individual who was Jamali's pupil), situated in the Mehrauli archaeological complex, are rumoured to be haunted. Numerous people have described feeling anxious and experiencing ghosts, djinns, and other paranormal sensations.
Getting There
Jamali Kamali Mosque and Tomb is easily accessible by road. You can take a taxi or public transportation from central Delhi to reach Mehrauli. The site is situated approximately 12 kilometres southwest of Connaught Place. Once in Mehrauli, it's a short walk to the mosque and tomb.
Kuldhara, Rajasthan
The region's locals have dubbed Kuldhara the "Ghost Village of India." It's believed that one of the ministers wished to wed a Paliwal (local community) girl. But when his wish was denied, he warned the villagers that there would be terrible repercussions. Due to this, residents of 83 other villages, including the Paliwals, departed overnight from the place. As a result, the villages are still abandoned today.
Getting There
To reach Kuldhara from Jaisalmer, hire a taxi or drive approximately 18 kilometres to the northwest.
Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal, Delhi
Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal, close to Karol Bagh, is believed to be haunted by the spirit of a queen who died there 600 years ago. Every night, the ghost is said to pay a visit, and no security guard has ever been able to stay here longer than a day. Many tourists have reportedly claimed to hear screams every night.
Getting There
Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal is reachable by road. Situated near Karol Bagh in central Delhi, it's easily accessible by taxi or public transportation. From Connaught Place, it's approximately a 10-15 minute drive to the Mahal.
Shaniwarwada, Pune
Built by the Peshwas, the Shaniwarwada has beautiful gardens, structures, and more. However, Narayanrao, the sixth Peshwa, is believed to have been murdered here by his uncle's guards, leaving this location with a terrible past. Locals and visitors have reported hearing cries on full moon days.
Getting There
Shaniwarwada is easily accessible by road and located in the city's heart. From Pune's main transportation hubs, such as the Pune Junction railway station and Pune International Airport, you can hire a taxi or use local transportation to reach Shaniwarwada, which is in the Shaniwar Peth area.