Hidden haunted places in Rajasthan nobody visits

Rajasthan is renowned for its rich history, grand palaces, and forts, but it's also famous for its spooky tales and haunted locations. Here are some of the most well-known haunted places in Rajasthan:

1.Bhangarh Fort (Alwar District): Often dubbed "the most haunted place in India," Bhangarh Fort is shrouded in mystery and numerous legends. Nestled in the Aravalli hills, Bhangarh Fort was constructed in the 17th century by Raja Madho Singh, the younger brother of the renowned Mughal general, Man Singh of Amber. At its zenith, Bhangarh was a bustling town with over 9,000 houses, a grand royal palace, and numerous temples showcasing exquisite 17th-century Nagara style architecture. The fort city was protected by successive fortifications and massive gates, signifying its prosperity and strategic importance.

• Legends: Two popular stories explain its haunting:

• Ascetic's Curse: One tale says a sadhu (ascetic) named Baba Balau Nath lived near the fort. He permitted its construction on the condition that no building should cast a shadow on his dwelling. However, a successor of the king built taller structures, and when their shadow fell on the sadhu's house, he cursed the town, leading to its destruction.

• Sorcerer's Curse: Another legend involves a sorcerer, Singhia, who fell in love with Princess Ratnavati of Bhangarh. He tried to use black magic to make her fall in love with him, but the princess discovered his trickery and foiled his plan. In his dying moments, he cursed the fort and its inhabitants, dooming them to destruction.

• Experiences: Visitors have reported strange noises, apparitions, and an eerie atmosphere. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) strictly prohibits entry into the fort after sunset and before sunrise, reinforcing its haunted reputation.

2.Kuldhara Village (Jaisalmer): This abandoned village near Jaisalmer has a chilling story. Kuldhara was established in 1291 AD by the Paliwal Brahmins, an industrious community known for their agricultural prowess, especially their ability to cultivate crops in the arid desert conditions. For over 600 years, Kuldhara flourished, along with 83 other villages in the region, forming a prosperous network. The Paliwals were renowned for their intellect, trade acumen, and unique architectural style, which is still visible in the remarkably preserved ruins of their homes.

• Legend: In the 1800s, the Paliwal Brahmins who inhabited Kuldhara and 84 other neighboring villages mysteriously vanished overnight. The most popular folklore states that the villagers fled to protect the village chief's daughter from the tyrannical minister Salim Singh, who wanted to marry her. Before leaving, they cursed the village, vowing that no one would ever be able to settle there again.

• Experiences: Visitors often report strange noises, shadowy figures, and an unsettling silence, as if the village is still holding onto its past.

3.Brijraj Bhawan Palace (Kota): Now a heritage hotel, this palace is said to be haunted by the spirit of Major Charles Burton, a British officer who was killed here during the Indian Mutiny of 1857 along with his sons. Built in 1830 by the East India Company, Brijraj Bhawan Palace was initially known as the "Agency Bungalow" and served as the residence for the British Political Agent in Kota. The initial structure was smaller, with later additions, including a new wing facing the river in 1909. In 1900, it became the Kota State Guest House, renamed Raj Bhawan, hosting dignitaries like Lord Curzon, Queen Mary (who even celebrated Christmas there in 1911), and various Viceroys. In 1956, the palace was given to the present Maharao of Kota, Brijraj Singh, who subsequently opened it as a heritage hotel in 1964.

• Experiences: Hotel guards have reported hearing the distinct voice of a man speaking in English, specifically telling them not to fall asleep, and even a slap if they doze off. The ghost is generally considered harmless to guests.

4.Rana Kumbha Palace (Chittorgarh Fort): This palace within the Chittorgarh Fort is associated with the tragic tale of Rani Padmini. The Rana Kumbha Palace is one of the most ancient and expansive structures within the formidable Chittorgarh Fort. Its origins trace back to Bappa Rawal in 734 AD, the founder of the Mewar dynasty. The palace was later significantly renovated and expanded by Maharana Kumbha in the 15th century, transforming it into a magnificent royal residence. The palace features grand courtyards, stables, and is believed to contain underground cellars.

• Legend: When Sultan Alauddin Khilji attacked the fort, Rani Padmini, along with 700 other women, performed Jauhar (self-immolation) to escape capture. Their spirits are believed to still roam the palace, and some claim to have seen a woman with a burnt face in royal attire or heard cries for help.

5.Nahargarh Fort (Jaipur): Perched on the Aravalli Hills overlooking Jaipur, Nahargarh Fort is also believed to be haunted. Nahargarh Fort, meaning "abode of tigers," stands proudly on the Aravalli Hills, offering panoramic views of Jaipur. It was primarily constructed in 1734 by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the founder of Jaipur, originally named Sudershangarh. It was designed as a defensive fortification for the city and also served as a royal retreat, with later expansions taking place in 1868. The fort houses the Madhavendra Bhawan, a unique palace where the royal family's queens had their private quarters, connected by a series of corridors.

• Legend: The fort was built by Sawai Raja Man Singh II, and it's believed that the spirit of Nahar Singh Bhomia, a Rathore prince, interfered with its construction. A temple was later built inside the fort dedicated to him to appease his spirit, allowing the construction to be completed without further disturbances.

• Experiences: Visitors have reported strange occurrences like unexplained movements and lights.

6.Sudhabay (Pushkar): This quiet area near Pushkar is known for its annual "Ghost Fair." Sudhabay, located about 4 kilometers from Pushkar on the Jaipur highway, is not a haunted building but a place with significant spiritual and historical context concerning the paranormal. For centuries, it has been traditionally recognized as a sacred site where individuals believed to be afflicted by ghostly possession or malevolent spirits could find liberation. The central feature is the Sudhabay Kund (sacred pond).

• Experiences: People from various places gather here to participate in rituals aimed at expelling evil spirits that they believe possess them. While not a typical haunted spot, the practices witnessed during this fair can be quite eerie and unsettling.

7.Jagatpura (Jaipur): This residential area in Jaipur has a reputation for being haunted by witches.

• Legend: It's believed that the spirits of villagers who died of hunger due to a selfish king's tyranny still roam the streets, appearing as women in white dresses with dishevelled grey hair.

Experiences: Residents and visitors have reported seeing strange figures and hearing whispers and cackling at night.

8.NH-79 Dudu Village (Ajmer-Udaipur Highway): This stretch of highway is known as "the road that asks for blood."

• Legend: A tragic story tells of a mother and her infant child who were killed in a road accident while the mother was trying to escape a forced child marriage. Their spirits are said to haunt this highway, with travelers reporting seeing a ghostly woman with a baby asking for help.

These places offer a glimpse into the mystical and often chilling folklore of Rajasthan, attracting both believers and curious tourists alike. While some dismiss the tales as mere superstition, the eerie atmosphere and captivating stories certainly add to the allure of these historical sites.

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