Dark tourism, also known as “thanatourism,” is all about visiting locations associated with death, tragedy, or historical acts of barbarism. These spots often provide deep insights into human pain, the repercussions of events, and the times that moulded history. India, a land that is rich in history, has several places with dark and horror-ridden pasts. Below are five such locales that allow us to dive deep into the issues that India faced in history and the exploitations that were close to the edge of spoiling.
Cellular Jail, Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Cellular Jail, commonly referred to as “Kala Pani”, is an everlasting symbol of India’s fight for independence. The British built this prison to hold political prisoners under extreme conditions, designing the solitary confinement cells to keep the inmates apart.
Now, the jail serves as a museum and a national landmark with cells, gallows, and displays that honour the brave acts of India’s freedom fighters. The visitors may also enjoy a light and sound show in the jail, which brings stories of courage and bravery to life. It’s often considered a key stop for anyone who wants to learn about India’s time under British rule.
Jallianwala Bagh, Amritsar
It is another powerful reminder of one of the darkest chapters in India’s struggle against British colonial rule. On April 13, 1919, British forces opened fire on unarmed civilians assembled for a peaceful protest, as ordered by General Reginald Dyer. The awful atrocity killed hundreds of people and injured many more.
Today, the site serves as a monument and museum, with bullet holes on the wall and a well into which many people dove in a desperate attempt to flee the shooting. The museum houses pictures, souvenirs, and personal accounts pertaining to that dreadful day.
Roopkund Lake, Uttarakhand
Also famously known as Skeleton Lake, it is at the height of the Garhwal Himalayas. In 1942, a British forest warden discovered hundreds of human remains spread over the lake, stirring interest and suspicion. These remains are supposed to date from the ninth century and belong to a group of pilgrims who were killed in a sudden, violent thunderstorm.
Roopkund Lake, Uttarakhand
The skeletons, which became visible during the summer, continue to be an appealing destination for those interested in dark tourism, with the unsettling sight of the skeletons against the lake’s pristine setting complementing it.
Kuldhara, Rajasthan
It is a secluded village near Jaisalmer, and it is where the Paliwal Brahmins used to live. But it was abandoned overnight for no apparent reason in the late 19th century. According to local mythology, the community was forced to leave because the local lord had imposed hefty taxes and that the residents also cursed the spot to vent their anger before leaving.
Now, abandoned streets, crumbling buildings, and ancient temples create an eerie atmosphere, attracting people who are anxious to learn about its fascinating past.
Shaniwar Wada, Maharashtra
Shaniwar Wada, an ancient fort near Pune, is known for its stunning architecture and disturbing stories. Built by the Maratha dynasty in 1732, it became the site of a horrific murder. According to legends, a young prince named Narayanrao was murdered within its walls, and his soul is said to live on.
Mostly, the creepy stories about ghostly sounds that reverberate at night attract people, with visits and walks being available all day through the dates, gardens, and remains of what was once a strong fort.
