5 famous forts in India and their haunting stories that won’t let you sleep!

India is a country of forts and palaces which stand witness to the grand past and history. These grand stone structures have seen love, battles, betrayals, deaths, sacrifices, and so much more. Some of these forts are surrounded in eerie (read haunting) legends which continue to fascinate visitors.

From ghostly whispers to the sound of silence, these forts carry tales that blur the line between reality and history. On this note, let’s have a look at six of the most (in) famous Indian forts and the haunting tales which will definitely not let you sleep.

Read on:

You must be living under a rock if you have not heard of Bhangarh. Also known as the “most haunted destination in India,” the fort was built by Raja Madho Singh. Legend has it that this 16th century fort was cursed by a sorcerer after his love proposal was rejected by the beautiful princess of Bhangarh. He cursed that the kingdom would never flourish. Soon after the death of the sorcerer, the whole place was abandoned.

Today, when you visit the fort, you’ll see a big board right outside the fort gate by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It’s more of a warning that visitors cannot enter after sunset. A number of people who have been to the fort claim to hear whispers, footsteps, and strange noises. Chilling, right?

Mehrangarh Fort needs no introduction. This imposing fort in the Blue City of Rajasthan has its own chilling tale. As per local legend, the land was cursed by a hermit that it will suffer water scarcity. He also said the curse could only be lifted when any man would sacrifice himself willingly. A man named Raja Ram Meghwal in 1459 came forward as a human sacrifice. He only asked the king to take care of his family after his death. He was buried alive at the site and locals believe his spirit still roams within the fort walls.

Shaniwar Wada in Pune is another grand 18th-century fort with a golden history. The place served as the seat of the Peshwas. However, in 1773 the young Peshwa Narayanrao was murdered by his own guards. Local legends believe that on full moon nights, his spirit cries to save him from being murdered. It’s a sad story of betrayal that will give you chills!

Jhansi Fort is known for being home to the fearless lady leader Rani Lakshmibai who fought the British army during the Revolt of 1857. The fort has experienced some of the most intense fighting where lakhs of soldiers lost their lives. Locals believe that the place is now haunted by war soldiers. Some also claim to hear sounds of galloping horses at night. It is one of those forts in India which reflects pride, sorrow, and haunting tales.

Ranthambore National Park is famous for its tiger population but did you know that this incredible park is home to the ruins of Ranthambore Fort which is steeped in haunting tales. A folklore is associated with the last Chauhan Hammir Deo, the king who chose death over surrendering himself when the fort was besieged by Mughal forces. Locals say that the spirits of these soldiers still wander around its ruins.