Is there any place which can be both beautiful and scary at the same time? Yes, there is Bhangarh Fort located in the Aravalli Hills of Rajasthan. Bhangarh Fort is located on the way between Jaipur and Alwar and some 50 kilometers from Sariska National Park. While it has been popular for all the ghost stories surrounding it, the rich historical background and the scenic views attract many tourists to visit it.
Built in the 17th century by the Rajput King Man Singh I, who served as an important person in the Mughal Emperor Akbar’s court, the Bhangarh Fort was built for the Rajput King Man Singh I's grandson, Madho Singh I.
Nowadays, Bhangarh Fort and its surroundings remain in excellent condition. Passing the four major gates of the fort - Lahori Gate, Ajmeri Gate, Phulbari Gate, and Delhi Gate, one can see tall temples, old homes, and majestic palaces. The wonderful architecture is the pride of the era.
Walking through the fort's courtyards and labyrinthine alleys offers a unique thrill. The play of light and shade between the old walls and the deep silence makes one imagine how vibrant this place once was, but now frozen in time.
In this eerie and mysterious mood, there is a corner of peace - the Someshwar Mahadev Temple. The deity is revered amongst the locals. The intricate carvings and quiet atmosphere of the temple capture the mind. From the heights of the temple, one can see a magnificent sweeping view of the dry but beautiful land of Rajasthan.
What are the reasons for the desolate nature of this ancient fort? Bhangarh is considered to be one of the most haunted places in India, and a curse is mentioned as its cause.
According to the legend, a tantrik, an expert in black magic, fell in love with a pretty princess of Bhangarh who had a number of suitors. One day, when the princess was walking in the market, the tantrik gave her a potion that was supposed to make her obedient. The princess rejected his advances and poured the potion on a big stone.
The stone started rolling on its own and crushed the tantrik to death. He put a curse on the entire village, declaring that the fort will always be destroyed and desolate.
They say that in the evenings, spirits of the dead people haunt the fort. Therefore, it is prohibited to enter the fort before sunrise or after sunset. Even today, local people keep telling all sorts of frightening stories, believing that the fort is really haunted.
A visit to the Bhangarh fort becomes much more than an ordinary visit. This is an opportunity to explore mysteries that link you to the culture heritage of India. If you are looking for something special and mysterious, you will certainly enjoy a visit to the ancient fort of Bhangarh.