India, with its ancient history, royal dynasties, and mysterious ruins, is home to some of the most haunted forts in the world. Each of these forts has stories of lost souls, eerie sounds, and ghostly sightings that have intrigued travelers and paranormal enthusiasts for decades. From Rajasthan’s desert palaces to Goa’s crumbling coastal citadels, every fort whispers tales of valor, betrayal, and restless spirits.

In this article, we uncover the 11 most haunted forts in India, where thrill-seekers can experience spine-chilling adventures and ghostly encounters that go beyond imagination.

1. Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan

Bhangarh Fort, located in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, tops the list as India’s most haunted location. Built in the 17th century by Raja Madho Singh, this fort has an infamous legend attached to it. It is said that a tantrik (sorcerer) fell in love with the beautiful Princess Ratnavati and tried to bewitch her using magic. When the spell backfired, the sorcerer cursed the fort, leading to its destruction.

Even today, locals avoid entering Bhangarh after sunset, and the Archaeological Survey of India has placed a warning sign prohibiting visitors from staying inside the fort at night. Mysterious shadows, eerie noises, and strange energy have made it a favorite for ghost hunters and thrill-seeking travelers alike.

2. Shaniwarwada Fort, Pune

The Shaniwarwada Fort in Pune, Maharashtra, once a majestic seat of the Peshwa rulers, is now known for its tragic haunting. The fort’s dark past is tied to the brutal murder of a young prince, Narayanrao, by his own relatives in the 18th century.

Locals claim that on full moon nights, the cries of “Kaka mala vachva” (“Uncle, save me!”) echo through the ruins. The spirit of the prince is believed to roam the fort’s corridors, seeking justice. Though a historical marvel, Shaniwarwada’s haunting atmosphere makes it one of India’s eeriest destinations after dusk.

3. Nahargarh Fort, Jaipur

Perched atop the Aravalli Hills, Nahargarh Fort offers breathtaking views of Jaipur, but beneath its royal grandeur lies a spooky legend. Built by Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, the fort was said to be haunted by the spirit of Nahar Singh Bhomia, who didn’t want his land disturbed.

Legends claim that Nahar’s spirit still guards the fort, protecting its secrets. Workers have reported tools mysteriously moving and walls collapsing without reason. Even in broad daylight, the fort’s silent corridors and desolate chambers carry an unnerving stillness that chills visitors to the bone.

4. Feroz Shah Kotla Fort, Delhi

Hidden in the heart of Delhi, the Feroz Shah Kotla Fort is not just a ruin—it is believed to be the home of djinns (supernatural beings from Islamic mythology). Locals visit the fort every Thursday, leaving letters, candles, and bowls of milk, hoping that the djinns will grant their wishes.

Visitors often report a feeling of being watched, whispers in empty hallways, and cold gusts of air despite the summer heat. Paranormal experts have called this site one of the most active supernatural zones in India.

5. Mehrangarh Fort, Jodhpur

Towering over Jodhpur, the Mehrangarh Fort is a symbol of strength and pride. However, it also holds dark secrets from its past. When the fort was built, a man named Raja Ram Meghwal was buried alive as part of a ritual sacrifice to ensure the fort’s success.

It is said that his spirit still roams within the fort, weeping for his untimely death. Guards and workers claim to hear crying voices and footsteps late at night. Despite its haunting tales, Mehrangarh remains one of India’s most beautiful yet eerily mysterious landmarks.

6. Golconda Fort, Hyderabad

Once a magnificent capital of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, Golconda Fort is famed for its diamond trade and its hauntings. The spirit of Taramati, a beautiful dancer and courtesan, is said to wander through the fort’s ancient halls.

Visitors have reported hearing footsteps, music, and laughter from the old chambers, especially near Taramati’s pavilion. Her restless soul is believed to dance under the moonlight, making this fort one of Hyderabad’s most haunted attractions.

7. Rajgarh Fort, Madhya Pradesh

Rajgarh Fort, nestled in the Malwa region of Madhya Pradesh, carries an aura of sadness and solitude. Built in the 17th century, it was the site of numerous battles between Marathas and Mughals. Locals believe that the spirits of fallen soldiers still guard the fort, unwilling to leave their posts.

Travelers have witnessed shadows moving against the light, clinking of swords, and faint battle cries during the night. The fort’s mist-covered hills add to the feeling of walking through a haunted battlefield frozen in time.

8. Suvarnadurg Fort, Maharashtra

Rising from the Konkan coastline, the Suvarnadurg Fort once served as a naval base for Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. However, seafarers claim that ghostly figures appear on stormy nights, walking along the ramparts and disappearing into the waves.

The haunting is said to be connected to the souls of sailors who perished in shipwrecks near the fort. With its roaring sea winds and deserted bastions, Suvarnadurg offers a spine-tingling experience for those who dare to explore after dark.

9. Bekal Fort, Kerala

Set against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea, Bekal Fort in Kerala is a stunning coastal fortress—and one of the most atmospheric haunted sites in South India. Locals talk about ghostly apparitions that appear along the ramparts, and the sound of weeping women that blends eerily with the crashing waves.

Historians believe the fort may be haunted by the spirits of soldiers who died defending it. The blend of beauty and fear makes Bekal Fort a hauntingly mesmerizing destination.

10. Lohagad Fort, Maharashtra

Perched near Lonavala, Lohagad Fort is known for its ancient caves and misty landscapes. However, trekkers have often shared strange experiences apparitions following them, footsteps in the fog, and lights flickering in the darkness.

Though a popular trekking spot, Lohagad’s eerie ambiance after sunset transforms it into a ghostly domain that fascinates and frightens visitors in equal measure.

11. Savandurga Fort, Karnataka

Located near Bangalore, Savandurga Fort is surrounded by tales of mysterious disappearances and haunting presences. Once a hideout for rebels and prisoners, its dark caves and isolated peaks are believed to harbor spirits of those who met tragic ends there.

Night explorers often describe unexplained sounds, chill winds, and a sense of dread while climbing the rocky terrain. Its haunting reputation makes Savandurga a must-visit for paranormal adventurers in South India.

Conclusion

From Rajasthan’s cursed palaces to Kerala’s haunted shores, these 11 haunted forts in India reveal a side of history that blends heritage with horror. Each fort is a monument of bravery, betrayal, and mystery, offering both a glimpse into India’s glorious past and a touch of the supernatural.

For those who seek thrill, adventure, and eerie excitement, these forts promise an unforgettable experience that lingers long after you’ve left their ancient gates.