Rajasthan, known for its grand palaces and forts, holds a darker side with tales of paranormal activities. The haunted forts in Rajasthan are famous for their eerie legends, ghostly appearances, and chilling atmospheres. Bhangarh, Nahargarh, Mehrangarh, Ajabgarh, and Chittorgarh Forts are renowned for their mysterious occurrences and ghostly folktales that have passed down through generations. Each fort has its own unique legend, making it a must-visit for thrill-seekers. Discover these haunted forts in Rajasthan and uncover the spooky stories that have made them famous.
Location
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Rajasthan is home to several haunted forts spread across different cities. Bhangarh Fort, located in Alwar district, is the most infamous. Nahargarh Fort lies near Jaipur, offering a panoramic view of the city. Mehrangarh Fort stands tall in Jodhpur, known for its grandeur and spooky tales. Ajabgarh Fort, located near Bhangarh, shares similar legends, while Chittorgarh Fort gets its name from the town of Chittorgarh, where it is located. It carries stories of haunting related to its bloody history. These haunted forts in Rajasthan are easily accessible, and each has a chilling story to tell.
How To Reach Haunted Forts In Rajasthan
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By Air: Rajasthan is well connected by air with Jaipur, Udaipur, and Jodhpur having international airports. Domestic flights are also available there.
By Rail: The state is well connected by railways. Major cities like Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Udaipur have regular train services to all parts of India.
By Road: Rajasthan has a well-developed road network. National highways and state roads make it accessible from neighbouring states like Delhi, Gujarat, and Madhya Pradesh.
Haunted Forts In Rajasthan To Visit As An Adventurer
Find out about the eerie myths and haunting tales of Rajasthan’s haunted forts, where thrill-seekers can enjoy spine-tingling experiences.
1. Bhangarh Fort
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The infamous Bhangarh Fort is considered the most haunted place in India. Legend has it that a wizard fell in love with a local princess and cursed the entire town when she rejected him. The fort is now abandoned, with locals and visitors reporting strange sounds and a heavy, eerie atmosphere. Bhangarh Fort’s dark history and paranormal activities attract thrill-seekers worldwide, making it the best-haunted fort in Rajasthan to explore.
Built In: 1573
Location: Alwar District, Rajasthan
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: ₹45 / $0.48 (for Indians), ₹200 / $2.40 (for foreigners)
2. Mehrangarh Fort
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Mehrangarh Fort is steeped in haunting legends. It’s said that around 15 handprint murals of Maharaja Man Singh’s wives, who committed sati in 1843, adorn the fort walls. Legend has it that Raja Ram Meghwal was buried alive to lift a curse during its construction. Another tale claims Maharaja Ajit Singh was murdered by his son, Abhai Singh, in the 1720s. Additionally, the fort is believed to be cursed by Cheeria Nathji, who declared the land would always suffer from water scarcity.
Built In: 1459
Location: Jodhpur, Rajasthan
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: ₹100 / $1.20 (for Indians), ₹400 / $7.19 (for foreigners)
3. Ajabgarh Fort
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According to local folklore, a sadhu named Balu Nath lived on the hilltop where Ajabgarh Fort was built. His only request was that no shadow should ever fall on his dwelling. But the ambitious Ajab Singh ignored this and constructed towering columns that cast a shadow on the sadhu’s home. Enraged, Balu Nath cursed the fort, dooming it to a haunted existence. Being a neighbour of the infamous Bhangarh Fort only adds to its eerie vibes, giving Ajabgarh that same spine-tingling, cursed feeling. This ranks it among the top haunted forts in Rajasthan.
Built In: 1635
Location: Alwar District, Rajasthan
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: N/A
4. Nahargarh Fort
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Nahargarh Fort in Jaipur is believed to be haunted by the ghost of King Sawai Raja Man Singh, its founder. According to folklore, his spirit roams the fort, dissatisfied with how it was built. Many believe that the king’s ghost still haunts the place, preventing any repairs or modifications. The fort offers stunning views of Jaipur, but the mysterious aura makes it a favourite among paranormal enthusiasts.
Built In: 1734
Location: Jaipur, Rajasthan
Timings: 10 AM – 5:30 PM
Entry Fee: ₹50 / $0.60 (for Indians), ₹200 / $2.40 (for foreigners)
Where To Stay
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For a luxurious stay in Rajasthan, you can choose from an array of heritage hotels and modern accommodations. Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur offers an opulent experience on the serene Lake Pichola. Umaid Bhawan Palace in Jodhpur is a stunning blend of royalty and modernity. For a more traditional experience, Samode Palace near Jaipur offers regal charm, while the Oberoi Udaivilas provides luxury with breathtaking views. Alsisar Haveli in Jaipur and Fateh Prakash Palace in Udaipur are also top picks for heritage stays.
Where To Eat
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Rajasthan’s local cuisine is a must-try for visitors. Near Bhangarh Fort, several Dhabas serve traditional Rajasthani dishes like dal baati churma and gatte ki sabzi. In Jaipur, you’ll find fine dining options offering local and international cuisine. Don’t miss out on trying the popular laal maas near Nahargarh Fort. In Jodhpur, eateries close to Mehrangarh Fort are known for serving mouthwatering mirchi bada and pyaaz kachori. Chittorgarh Fort offers local food stalls where you can enjoy authentic Rajasthani snacks.
Best Time To Visit
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The best time to visit the haunted forts in Rajasthan is between October and March when the weather is pleasant for exploring these historical sites. The summer months can be quite hot, making outdoor excursions uncomfortable. Visiting during the winter allows you to experience the spooky atmosphere of these forts without the heat. Evening tours, particularly at Mehrangarh and Nahargarh Forts, offer an extra layer of eerie charm as the sun sets over the ancient walls.
Other Things To Consider
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- Accessibility: Ensure to check the accessibility of forts, as some have steep climbs or uneven paths, which might not be suitable for everyone.
- Guides: Hiring a local guide is highly recommended to uncover hidden stories and legends associated with the haunted forts for a richer experience.
- Timing: Plan visits during early mornings or late afternoons to avoid midday heat, and remember, some forts like Bhangarh close at sunset. Remember to check out each Rajasthan haunted fort timings.
- Safety: Be cautious while exploring ruins or remote areas, especially during low-light hours, and avoid places where entry is prohibited after dark.
- Permits: Always check for necessary permits or tickets beforehand, as some forts charge different fees for Indian and foreign visitors.
These haunted forts in Rajasthan are not just architectural marvels but also hold within them some of the spookiest stories that attract thrill-seekers and history buffs alike. Whether it’s the mysterious tales of Bhangarh or the legends surrounding Nahargarh, these Rajasthan haunted forts offer a unique experience of history and the paranormal. Book your trip with TripXL to uncover these mysterious destinations firsthand.
Cover Photo: Jitin Rajput / Shutterstock