SPOOKY SPOTS

POPULAR ‘HAUNTED’ ATTRACTIONS IN DELHI:

Khooni Jheel (Bloody Lake): During the 1857 uprising, fleeing British soldiers were killed and thrown into the lake. Legend also has it that 13 members of a family were murdered during the battle and the ghost of an old woman wanders the area to this day in search of family members.

Feroz Shah Kotla Fort: Built some 800 years ago by a Muslim ruler of the same name, the fort is believed to be home to djinns. People light diyas (candles in bowls) and tie threads in the fort as offerings to fulfill their dreams. A step well on the site was locked after a person committed suicide by jumping into it.

Khooni Darwaja: Located on a road verge in New Delhi, the gate is said to be haunted by the spirits of three Mughal princes who were shot dead there by British army officer William Hudson in 1857 in India’s first independence battle.

Agarsen Ki Baoli: A marvellous monument built in the 14th century and located not far from the Parliament buildings, the step well measures 58 by 14 metres at ground level. One has to walk down 108 sandstone steps to reach the well. There are passages and rooms inside the Baoli but they are now permanently locked.

Bhuli Bhatiyari Ka Mahal: This ancient hunting lodge is said to be haunted by the spirit of a brick kiln worker who lost her way at the site.

Nicholson Cemetery: The main attractions here are the graves of British soldiers who died during a violent battle with Indian nationalists in 1857.

Ghost walks: For between 500 and 2,000 rupees (240 to 950 baht) per person, different tour operators at various sites offer three-hour sessions, usually for around 10 people, on moonlit nights and in early morning hours between August and March. Google ‘delhi ghost walks’.