Bhangarh Fort, Rajasthan: A Tale of Curses and Spirits
Nestled in the Alwar district of Rajasthan, Bhangarh Fort stands as one of India’s most infamous haunted locations.
Surrounded by Aravalli hills, this 17th-century fort exudes an eerie charm that attracts thousands of visitors, thrill-seekers, and paranormal enthusiasts every year.
Its reputation as a hotspot for supernatural activity stems from chilling legends, mysterious occurrences, and an alleged curse that still haunts its ruins.

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The History of Bhangarh Fort
Bhangarh Fort was built in 1631 by Raja Madho Singh I, the younger brother of Man Singh, a trusted general of Mughal Emperor Akbar.
The fort was named after a local ascetic, Baba Balanath, who is said to have blessed the land with a condition: the shadows of the fort should never touch his meditation area. If violated, the town would perish.
Madho Singh and his successors respected this condition, but over time, as structures expanded, the curse was triggered, leading to the fort’s downfall.
By the 18th century, Bhangarh was abandoned, and the surrounding area became desolate.
The Legend of Princess Ratnavati and the Sorcerer
The most popular tale associated with Bhangarh Fort is the tragic story of Princess Ratnavati, renowned for her beauty and intelligence.
Suitors from far and wide sought her hand in marriage, but one sorcerer named Singhia, who was skilled in black magic, fell deeply in love with her.
Knowing he could never win her love, Singhia tried to enchant her by using a potion.
He replaced her perfume with the enchanted concoction, hoping she would fall under his spell.
However, Ratnavati discovered his scheme and poured the potion onto a boulder. The boulder, imbued with the sorcerer’s magic, rolled toward him, crushing him to death.
Before dying, Singhia cursed the entire fort and its inhabitants, dooming them to destruction.
Soon after, Bhangarh was attacked by a rival kingdom, and everyone within the fort, including Princess Ratnavati, was killed.
It is said that her spirit, along with those of other victims, still lingers within the fort’s ruins.

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Paranormal Activities and Strange Occurrences
Bhangarh Fort is considered so haunted that the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has put up signs warning visitors not to enter the premises after sunset. Those who have dared to stay overnight have reported:
- Unexplained Sounds: Many visitors claim to hear whispers, cries, and footsteps echoing through the empty corridors at night.
- Apparitions: Ghostly figures, believed to be those of the cursed residents, have been spotted wandering around the ruins.
- Sudden Temperature Drops: People often feel sudden chills or a drop in temperature when exploring certain parts of the fort.
- Strange Sensations: Visitors report feelings of unease, as if being watched, or a heavy presence nearby.
These eerie occurrences have earned Bhangarh Fort a reputation as one of the most haunted places in India.
Exploring the Fort
Despite its haunting tales, Bhangarh Fort remains a fascinating site for visitors. It offers insights into ancient architecture, with its sprawling temples, grand gateways, and palace ruins. Some of the key attractions include:
- The Main Gate (Bhoot Bangla): The entrance to the fort sets the tone with its imposing structure.
- Temples: Several temples, including Someshwara Temple and Gopinath Temple, provide a glimpse into the spiritual life of Bhangarh.
- The Royal Palace: Located at the highest point, the palace offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills but is said to be the most haunted spot.

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Tips for Visiting Bhangarh Fort
If you plan to visit Bhangarh Fort, keep these tips in mind:
- Visit during the day: Entry is allowed only between sunrise and sunset. The fort is strictly off-limits after dark.
- Travel in groups: It’s safer and more enjoyable to explore the fort with company.
- Respect local beliefs: Locals are deeply superstitious about the fort; avoid actions that could offend them or disrupt the site.
- Stay alert: Be cautious while exploring, as the ruins can be hazardous.
The haunted tale of Bhangarh Fort is a captivating blend of history, folklore, and the supernatural. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the fort’s mysterious atmosphere and tragic past make it an unforgettable destination.
From its cursed origins to the ghostly legends that persist, Bhangarh Fort continues to intrigue and terrify visitors.