5 Haunted Places To Explore in Rajasthan

India, a land of vast diversity, is a stunning blend of cultures, religions, heritage, languages, and beliefs. Over the past millennium, numerous dynasties, rulers, and kingdoms have risen and fallen, leaving behind their imprints in the form of magnificent architecture—forts, castles, palaces, temples, and tombs. Today, these remnants of history are some of the country’s top tourist attractions, drawing visitors from all corners of the world.

Rajasthan, the north-western state of India, is a vibrant and globally popular tourist destination. With its colorful culture, rich traditions, and royal legacy shaped by the reign of several kings, Rajasthan offers a treasure trove of experiences.

However, beyond its lively façade and majestic monuments lies a mysterious side that adds to its allure—haunted places steeped in eerie tales and paranormal occurrences. These stories have turned several historic spots into intriguing, spine-chilling destinations that fascinate thrill-seekers and curious travelers alike.

Here are some of the most haunted places in Rajasthan that continue to captivate the imagination:

# Bhangarh Fort

Built in the 17th century by Raja Bhagwant Das for his son Madho Singh, Bhangarh Fort has become synonymous with horror and mystery. Later occupied by the rulers of the Alwar region, the fort was eventually attacked and devastated by the Mughal army, leading to the massacre of the royal family and many others.

Legend attributes the fort’s doom to the curse of a local tantrik (occultist) and a sadhu who lived nearby. Their curses are believed to have brought misfortune upon Bhangarh. Many claim to have sensed paranormal activities within the ruins, such as ghostly figures and unexplained sounds.

Due to these haunting tales, the Archaeological Survey of India has officially prohibited entry into the fort after sunset and before sunrise. Locals believe the spirits of the deceased still wander the area, making Bhangarh Fort the most haunted place in Rajasthan.

# Kuldhara Village

Located near Jaisalmer, Kuldhara is an abandoned village with a deeply unsettling aura. Once home to the prosperous Paliwal Brahmins, the village was deserted overnight around 200 years ago. The reason? The oppressive Diwan of Jaisalmer, Salim Singh, whose tyrannical behavior forced the villagers to flee.

Strangely, their departure was so secretive that no one saw them leave, nor were they ever found again. Before vanishing, it’s said they cursed the village so that no one could ever settle there again.

To this day, Kuldhara remains empty and silent, surrounded by desolation. Locals and visitors report an eerie presence and an uncanny stillness that envelops the area.

# Brijraj Bhavan, Kota

Originally the residence of British official Major Charles Burton, Brijraj Bhavan in Kota has now been converted into a heritage hotel. During the revolt of 1857, Major Burton and his two sons were killed by Indian sepoys inside this palace.

Though their bodies were later recovered and given military funerals, the spirit of Major Burton is believed to still haunt the premises. Security guards and staff claim to hear commands in an English accent late at night. Some even report being slapped if caught sleeping or smoking during duty—supposedly by the ghost himself. Several guests have also described discomfort and a sense of unease during their stay.

# Rana Kumbha Palace, Chittorgarh

One of the eeriest sites in Rajasthan, Rana Kumbha Palace in Chittorgarh holds the tragic tale of Rani Padmini and her act of jauhar (self-immolation). When Alauddin Khilji of Delhi attacked the fort, Rani Padmini, along with 700 women, chose death over dishonor and jumped into a sacrificial fire.

Visitors to the palace often report hearing cries and pleas for help, believed to be the voices of these women. Local legends speak of a cremation ground below the fort that still holds their ashes. The ruins of this palace exude a heavy silence and sorrow that adds to its ghostly reputation.

# Jal Mahal, Jaipur

One of the most picturesque monuments in Rajasthan, Jal Mahal is nestled in the middle of the Man Sagar Lake in Jaipur. Built by Maharaja Jai Singh, this palace is a marvel of Rajput architecture. Only the top floor is visible, while the remaining four floors lie submerged beneath the lake.

Despite its scenic charm, Jal Mahal has gained a reputation for being haunted. Locals claim to hear strange noises and screams from within the structure, though no concrete story explains its haunted nature. Sightings of unexplained movements have also been reported, especially after sunset. Once a hunting lodge, its submerged state adds an element of mystery, as no one really knows what lies beneath the waters.