India is a country bursting with history and culture, where centuries-old tales have given some places a seriously spooky reputation. From abandoned forts to ancient villages, these spots are wrapped in mystery and have long intrigued both locals and travelers alike.

Ready to explore some of India's most haunted places? Let's dive in!

1. Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan

Bhangarh Fort in Rajasthan was founded in 1631. It is infamous as India's most haunted site, known for eerie legends of curses, ghost sightings, and unexplained noises.

The legend speaks of Princess Ratnavati and a wizard who was in love with the princess. The wizard tried to trick her by making her use a love potion. She knew what was coming and threw the potion on a boulder which caused the boulder to roll over the wizard.

Before dying, he cursed the fort. The fort was later sacked by intruders, and then abandoned.

2. Shaniwarwada Fort, Pune

Shaniwar Wada, a 286-year-old fort in Pune, once served as the Maratha Empire’s capital. Now in ruins, it draws tourists for its history and eerie legends.

It is known as a site of political betrayal and the brutal murder of Narayanrao Peshwa. Locals claim the fort is haunted by his spirit, with cries heard on new moon nights.

The British used the fort until it was gutted by a fire in 1828.

3. Dumas beach, Gujarat

Dumas Beach in Gujarat is known for its black sand and eerie atmosphere.

It is said that the beach was once a Hindu burial ground, and is haunted by spirits. Folklore links the black sand to ash from burned bodies.

By day, it's a popular tourist spot. After dark, visitors report paranormal activities, including strange sounds, and even missing people.

4. Kuldhara Village, Rajasthan

Kuldhara is a ghost village 17 km west of Jaisalmer. It was once a prosperous settlement founded by Paliwal Brahmins in 1291.

In 1825, the entire population of Kuldhara and 83 nearby villages mysteriously vanished overnight. Legend says the villagers fled to escape the advances of Salim Singh, a ruthless minister who sought to marry the village head's daughter.

Before leaving, they cursed the land so no one could ever settle there. The village remains abandoned, and its ruins, showcasing remarkable architecture, now attract tourists and filmmakers.

5. Dow Hill, Kurseong

Dow Hill is about 30 KM from Darjeeling. It is infamous for its haunted “Death Road,” near the forest office. Woodcutters often report sightings of a headless ghost roaming the forest, along with eerie sounds of footsteps.

There are also tales of a woman in a grey dress and unsettling experiences of being watched.

Victoria Boys' High School, a 100-year-old institution nearby, is another haunted site. Locals claim to hear cries, footsteps, and voices, especially during the winter when the school is closed.