7 Haunted Places to Visit in Rajasthan: Complete Information

The vibrant festivals, such as the Pushkar Camel Fair and the Jaipur Literature Festival, provide a glimpse into the cultural richness and traditions that define this land. Moreover, Rajasthan’s diverse landscapes, ranging from the golden dunes of the Thar Desert to the picturesque lakes of Udaipur, offer breathtaking vistas that captivate the travelers visiting this incredible state.

However, Rajasthan’s allure extends beyond its tangible beauty. Steeped in history and folklore, this land of kings and warriors is also home to several haunted places that intrigue and captivate travelers seeking an otherworldly experience. 

While Rajasthan is primarily known for its regal heritage, exploring its haunted sites adds an element of mystery and adventure to one’s journey. With a plethora of stories and legends surrounding these eerie locations, they have become a fascinating aspect of Rajasthan’s tourism. 

For those with a penchant for the supernatural, delving into the haunted places of Rajasthan offers a unique and spine-tingling experience that blends history, mystery, and the thrill of the unknown. So, venture into the haunted realm of Rajasthan with our Rajasthan Tour and embark on a journey that will send chills down your spine.

Here are the top 7 haunted places in Rajasthan 2024

1. Bhangarh Fort

Surrounded by dense forests, the fort’s picturesque setting adds to its enigmatic aura. The rugged terrain, ancient ruins, and mystical atmosphere create an intriguing backdrop for those seeking a haunted experience.

Visitors can explore the various structures within Bhangarh Fort, such as the Royal Palace, temples, gateways, and the marketplace. The architecture of the fort showcases a blend of Hindu and Islamic styles, depicting the grandeur of its bygone era. The fort’s eerie ambiance and the ruins’ atmospheric charm offer a unique experience for history enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. 

It is important to approach the fort with respect and adhere to the guidelines set by the authorities. While Bhangarh Fort’s haunted reputation adds to its allure, it is essential to maintain a sense of caution and reverence while exploring the premises.

Bhangarh Fort’s haunted reputation stems from various legends and stories passed down through generations. While the historical accuracy of these tales is debatable, they have contributed to the fort’s mystique and allure.

The Curse of Guru Balu Nath: According to one popular legend, Bhangarh Fort was cursed by a saint named Guru Balu Nath. It is believed that the fort’s construction was only permitted on the condition that its shadow should never touch the sage’s dwelling. 

However, a prince named Madho Singh ignored this warning, and as a result, the fort faced a catastrophic fate. The curse supposedly led to the fort’s abandonment and the subsequent haunting by vengeful spirits.

The Tragic Love Story: Another story revolves around a beautiful princess named Ratnavati and a magician named Singhia. The princess possessed unmatched beauty, and Singhia fell in love with her. He used his dark magic to make the princess fall in love with him, but Ratnavati discovered his intentions. 

In an attempt to thwart the magician’s plans, she poured a potion on a boulder that crushed Singhia. Before his death, he cursed the fort and its inhabitants, dooming them to a tragic fate.

The Mysterious Disappearance: Bhangarh Fort is also associated with a tale of sudden disappearance and abandonment. It is said that the entire population of the fort vanished overnight, leaving behind a ghost town frozen in time. The reasons behind this mass disappearance remain a mystery, fueling speculations of supernatural occurrences.

The fort is open to visitors from sunrise to sunset, and it is advised to plan your visit accordingly. The entry fee for Bhangarh Fort is nominal, and visitors are required to register their names and details at the entry gate. However, it is important to note that staying inside the fort premises after sunset is strictly prohibited by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). The fort is considered dangerous during the night due to the reported paranormal activities and the belief that spirits become active after dark.

2. Kuldhara Village

The village is nestled amidst a barren landscape, surrounded by desert sands and remnants of the once-thriving community. The silence and the sense of abandonment create an atmospheric setting that adds to the mystique of the place.

Visitors to Kuldhara can explore the abandoned houses, temples, and narrow streets that are frozen in time. The village provides a glimpse into the architectural style and way of life of the Paliwal Brahmins. The dilapidated structures and the silence that engulfs the village evoke a sense of mystery and intrigue.

While exploring Kuldhara, it is important to be respectful of the surroundings and adhere to any guidelines provided by the local authorities. The village holds historical and cultural significance, and it is essential to treat the site with reverence.

The Stories of Kuldhara Village

Kuldhara Village is known for its haunting legends and stories that have been passed down through generations. According to popular folklore, the village was once inhabited by Paliwal Brahmins, a prosperous community. The village thrived due to its flourishing agriculture and trade, until one night when it was mysteriously abandoned.

The Curse of Salim Singh: The most popular story associated with Kuldhara Village revolves around the tyrant Salim Singh, who was the minister of the Jaisalmer state. It is said that Salim Singh fell in love with a girl from the village and demanded her hand in marriage. Fearing for the honor and safety of their community, the Paliwal Brahmins decided to abandon the village and invoked a curse upon it. It is believed that anyone who tried to inhabit the village after their departure would face misfortune and paranormal activities.

The Vanished Village: Another intriguing aspect of Kuldhara is the complete abandonment and disappearance of its inhabitants. According to local legends, on the night the villagers left, the entire village vanished into thin air. To this day, the exact reasons for their mass exodus and the mysterious disappearance of the village remain unknown, adding to the village’s haunted aura.

Kuldhara Village is open for visitors from sunrise to sunset. There is no specific entry fee to visit the village, but a nominal fee may be charged by the local authorities for maintenance purposes. To reach Kuldhara Village, one can hire a taxi or drive from Jaisalmer. The village is easily accessible by road, and it takes approximately 30 minutes to reach the site. Alternatively, one can also opt for guided tours or excursions that include Kuldhara Village as part of their itinerary.

3. Sudhabay – Pushkar

Sudhabay Kund is a sacred water reservoir located near the Brahma Temple in Pushkar. It is believed to be a holy spot where Lord Brahma himself performed a yagna (sacred ritual) in ancient times. According to legend, it is believed that Sudhabay Kund was created when Lord Brahma struck the ground with his weapon, resulting in the formation of a sacred water body.

This place is one of the must-visit haunted places in Rajasthan 2024 because of its unique annual “Ghost Fair”, which is believed to offer liberation from ghosts and spirits. The area remains relatively unexplored, but during the Ghost Fair, people from all over visit Sudhabay to seek relief from spiritual afflictions. 

The fair showcases unusual rituals, including exorcisms, creating an eerie and haunted ambiance that can send shivers down one’s spine. The holy lake in Sudhabay is considered sacred, and locals bathe in its waters to protect themselves from negative energies. Taking a dip in the lake after witnessing the ghostly rituals is said to be a transformative experience.

Today, the Ghost Fair at Sudhabay Kund attracts crowds of devotees who seek happiness and peace through ancestral rituals and offerings. The fair coincides with specific astrological alignments, often on the fourth day of the waxing moon and Tuesday. The fair becomes a focal point for people to perform Pind Dan, and Tarpan, and seek solace for their ancestors.

4. Chand Baori

Chand Baori is an ancient stepwell believed to have been built during the 8th and 9th centuries by King Chanda of the Nikumbha Dynasty. It is one of the deepest and largest step wells in India, consisting of 3,500 narrow steps arranged in a precise geometrical pattern that descends 13 stories deep into the ground. The intricate symmetrical design and the sheer scale of the stepwell leave visitors in awe.

The haunting reputation of Chand Baori stems from its desolate appearance, the echoes of footsteps in the empty well, and the sense of isolation that pervades the area. The stillness and darkness within the stepwell can create an eerie atmosphere, especially during evenings or cloudy days when the light casts shadows on the ancient structure. 

Local legends and beliefs suggest that the stepwell may be haunted by spirits or jinns, adding to its mysterious allure. It is said that the well has an energy that attracts supernatural entities, and some people claim to have experienced paranormal activities or strange occurrences in the vicinity.

Chand Baori is open to visitors throughout the year. The timings for visiting are generally from sunrise to sunset. There is no entry fee to explore the stepwell, and visitors can freely wander around the site. However, it is advisable to exercise caution while descending the steps due to their steep and uneven nature. 

Beyond its haunted reputation, Chand Baori holds immense architectural and historical significance. It was primarily used as a water reservoir, providing a reliable source of water during dry seasons. The stepwell’s design also served as a community gathering place and provided relief from the scorching heat of Rajasthan. 

Today, Chand Baori attracts tourists, photographers, and architecture enthusiasts who are fascinated by its unique structure and the captivating interplay of light and shadow.

5. Rana Kumbha Palace

The palace’s association with Queen Padmini and the tragic events that unfolded within its walls have contributed to its haunting allure. However, it remains a captivating destination for those interested in history and architecture, offering a glimpse into Rajasthan’s rich heritage.

Rana Kumbha Palace was built during the 15th century by Rana Kumbha, a revered ruler of the Mewar dynasty. It served as the residence of the royal family and a symbol of their power and grandeur. However, the palace was witness to several tragic events and brutal battles, leading to its association with ghostly tales.

One of the most popular stories associated with Rana Kumbha Palace is the story of Queen Padmini. According to legend, Alauddin Khilji, the Sultan of Delhi, was captivated by Queen Padmini’s beauty and desired to possess her. The queen, along with the women of the palace, performed “Jauhar” (self-immolation) to protect their honor and dignity. It is believed that the spirits of Queen Padmini and the women who performed Jauhar still linger within the palace, creating a haunting presence. Visitors to Rana Kumbha Palace have reported witnessing inexplicable phenomena, such as strange sounds, whispers, and apparitions. Many claims to have felt a heavy presence and experienced a sense of unease while exploring the palace’s dark corridors and rooms. The palace’s dilapidated state, with crumbling walls and remnants of the past, further adds to its uncanny atmosphere.

Rana Kumbha Palace is open to visitors from morning until evening. There is an entry fee for accessing the Chittorgarh Fort complex, which includes the palace. The fort is a popular tourist destination and can be reached by road from major cities in Rajasthan. Chittorgarh is approximately 300 kilometers from Jaipur and can be accessed via buses, taxis, or private vehicles.

While the palace is considered haunted, it remains a significant historical site that attracts tourists, history enthusiasts, and architecture lovers. Its imposing structure and intricate architecture showcase the grandeur of the bygone era. Visitors can explore the various rooms, galleries, and balconies within the palace, getting a glimpse into the lives of the Rajput rulers.

6. Hotel Brijraj Bhawan

According to local legends, Major Charles Burton, the former resident of Brijraj Bhawan Palace, tragically died during the Indian Rebellion of 1857. It is believed that his spirit still wanders the premises, making the palace a haunt for supernatural encounters. 

Guests and staff members have reported eerie incidents, including strange sounds, unexplained movements, and sightings of a ghostly figure believed to be Major Burton. One popular story associated with the palace tells of a British couple who checked into Brijraj Bhawan for a night. During their stay, the wife woke up in the middle of the night to find a man dressed in military attire standing at the foot of their bed. 

Shocked and terrified, the couple immediately fled the room. It is said that the ghostly presence of Major Burton often appears to guests, especially in Room 327, which is considered to be the most haunted room in the hotel. 

Despite its haunted reputation, Brijraj Bhawan Palace Hotel continues to operate as a heritage hotel and welcomes guests from around the world. The hotel offers comfortable accommodations with a touch of colonial charm, providing a unique experience for visitors seeking a blend of history and paranormal intrigue.

As for visiting details, Brijraj Bhawan Palace Hotel operates as a hotel rather than a traditional tourist attraction. Therefore, there are no specific entry fees or visiting timings for the general public. To experience the hotel’s ambiance and potential encounters with the supernatural, one can book a stay at the property. 

To reach Brijraj Bhawan Palace Hotel in Kota, one can opt for various modes of transportation. Kota is well-connected by road, rail, and air. The nearest airport is Jaipur International Airport, located approximately 240 kilometers away. 

From there, one can hire a taxi or take a train to Kota Junction, which is a major railway station in the region. The hotel is situated within the city, and local transportation options such as taxis and auto-rickshaws are available for reaching the property.

7. Mehendipur Balaji Temple

It offers a unique opportunity for dark tourism, allowing visitors to witness the rituals and practices performed to combat supernatural afflictions. It is important to note that while Mehandipur Balaji Temple is considered a haunted place due to its association with exorcism and paranormal activities, it is also a revered religious site for devotees seeking spiritual healing. 

Visitors should approach the temple with respect and sensitivity towards the beliefs and practices of the people who come here seeking solace from supernatural disturbances.

The temple attracts people from all over India who believe in the power of exorcism and seek solace from various paranormal disturbances. It is believed that the temple is frequented by spirits and those possessed by them. 

Devotees come to Mehandipur Balaji Temple seeking relief from black magic, witchcraft, and other supernatural afflictions. One of the significant rituals performed at the temple is the ‘Bhoot Nivaran Puja,’ where individuals possessed by spirits are brought to the temple for exorcism. 

The possessed individuals are subjected to intense rituals and prayers to liberate them from the influence of evil forces. These rituals involve the chanting of mantras, holy water sprinkling, and the use of various herbs and holy ashes. The atmosphere in and around the temple during these rituals is often described as intense and charged with spiritual energy.

Visiting Mehandipur Balaji Temple offers a unique and immersive experience for those interested in dark tourism. The temple provides a glimpse into the mystical world of exorcism and the belief in supernatural powers. It allows visitors to witness the rituals and ceremonies performed to combat spiritual afflictions, providing a rare opportunity to explore the intersection of faith, healing, and the occult.

The temple is open to devotees and visitors throughout the year. The timings may vary, but generally, the temple opens early in the morning and closes in the evening. It is advisable to check the specific timings before planning a visit. 

To reach Mehandipur Balaji Temple, one can travel by road or rail. The nearest railway station is Bandikui Junction, located approximately 40 kilometers away. From there, one can hire a taxi or take a local bus to reach the temple. The temple is situated in the town of Mehandipur, which is well-connected by road. Buses and taxis are available from nearby cities such as Jaipur and Delhi.

Rajasthan’s haunted places offer a unique blend of history, folklore, and the unexplained. Exploring these sites is not just about seeking thrills but also gaining insights into the cultural beliefs and superstitions that shape the fabric of this fascinating land. Whether you are a skeptic or a believer, the haunted places of Rajasthan promise an unforgettable journey into the realms of the unknown. So, embrace your adventurous spirit and embark on a spine-tingling exploration of Rajasthan’s haunted heritage.