Kolkata, also known as the City of Joy, presents the synthesis of traditions, contemporary life, and traditions. This city has a numbered history right from the colonial masters to being the cultural hub of India. Kolkata boasts striking structures including the Howrah Bridge, Victoria Memorial, and many temples, museums, and markets to mention but a few that pull in thousands of tourists a year. However, just as in countless cities around the world, there is more to its colonial facade, vibrant markets and lively celebrations, the city is shrouded in secrets and enigmas. People of Kolkata have always been listening to the stories of hauntings, spooky experiences, and spooky locations to attract the mysterious. Here in this blog, let us initiate you to the world of ghosts by sharing some of the spookiest and haunted places in Kolkata. These sites not only have tales of the supernatural, but are equally historical, which contributes a special something to their appeal, let’s say.
Beauty, Spookiness, and Attraction of Kolkata’s Haunted Places
Kolkata is a city that takes its aesthetic sense very seriously. The beauty of this city is found right from the colonial structures to the current structures that dominate the skyline of the city. However, for lovers of mystery and things that go bump in the night, there is the dark side of Kolkata. It’s that place where the lines between the living and the dead are blurred. From dim and mysterious lanes to structures that look as though they are steeped in history, Kolkata is perfect for telling spooky tales. A number of its streets look exquisite; nevertheless, there exists in this city a sort of eerie tone that makes it even more appealing. For those interested in exploring haunted places in Kolkata, the city offers many sites that combine mystery and history. Let’s walk through the chosen places of this blog and check if the spirits of the past have left Kolkata or not. The spirits are not mere products of imagination but are realities that belong to Kolkata’s past, and anyone who dares to listen will hear these chilling tales.
Here is a list of top 10 scary places to visit in Kolkata to satisfy your curiosity:
- National Library
- The Royal Calcutta Turf Club
- Hastings House, Alipore
- Rabindra Sarobar Metro Station
- Kolkata Dock
- Nimtala Burning Ghat
- Writer’s Building
- Sovabazar/House of Dolls
- Sundarbans
- South Park Street Cemetery
1. National Library
If you are a bookworm and have a special predilection for the unknown, then the National Library in Kolkata is all for you. This library, situated in the area of the colonial period, is the Belvedere Library and one of the largest libraries in India. Yet beneath the veneer of the bookshelves and relics of history is a story that is not so pretty. Some think that there are ghosts in the haunted library in Kolkata because the building used to be the residence of British officers. Employees of the library and its guests have heard strange noises and seen shadows that walk through the library at night. The once lavish mansion, filled with the rustling of the pages of old books and the dust on the forgotten furniture, is a lot more than that—it has history, and it doesn’t let it be forgotten. If you have an interest in the paranormal, then this library should be one that you make a point to visit. However, expect a creep show if you are willing to wander the hallways during a nighttime, low-light environment.
Location: G8MM+6CF, Belvedere Rd, Block A, Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700027
Opening Hours:
- Saturday and Sunday- 9:30 am to 6 pm
- Monday to Friday- 9:30 am to 8 pm
Nearby Restaurants:
- The Bistro
- Bar-B-Q
Nearby Attractions:
- Alipore Zoo
- Victoria Memorial
2. The Royal Calcutta Turf Club (Racecourse)
The place is also known as the Royal Calcutta Turf Club or simply the Racecourse, which is one of the oldest racing clubs anywhere on the globe. But over the years, this site has gained popularity for something a lot more frightening than a horse race. It is believed that the premise is inhabited by the evil spirit of a British soldier who shot himself in the head after losing his honor through some race. Some people say they have seen it and heard horses running even when no one was on the track. Even a hint of light during the night and a sudden windy movement can throw a shiver up anyone’s spine. For those who love getting chills from such places, a visit to this racecourse may just give you the raw shivers. However, if you are a person who gets frightened easily, then this is probably one place to avoid at night. This eerie experience is a perfect fit among the haunted places in Calcutta, which are famous for their spine-chilling tales and supernatural occurrences.
Location: Acharya Jagdish Chandra Bose Rd, Maidan, Racecourse, Hastings, Kolkata, West Bengal 700023
Opening Hours: 9 am– 6 pm
Nearby Restaurants:
- Flurys
- Peter Cat
Nearby Attractions:
- Victoria Memorial
- Eden Gardens
3. Hastings House, Alipore
Hastings House is a very old mansion, and the stories of ghosts are told about it make it haunted house in Kolkata. The house used to be a residence of Lord Hastings, the British Governor-General of India, and the building itself is currently in very poor condition, which is why many local legends are connected with it. Some people who visit the area tour have complained of hearing strange noises as well as seeing blinks of light. The scariest stories are those of a female spirit who is believed to wander round the building searching for her lover. The floor of the mansion is damp; the windows are cracked; the rooms are dusty, and there is an energy of something that has not wanted to let go. Although the door of the building is closed to the public, people who are interested in the supernatural are still able to hear all sorts of stories about it. This place is also considered one of the scary house in Kolkata for its eerie atmosphere and unsettling history.
Location: Rajkiran Building, Shubham Apartment Ln, Alipore, Kolkata, West Bengal 700027
Opening Hours: Not open to the public
Nearby Restaurants:
- The French Loaf
- Mainland China
Nearby Attractions:
- Alipore Zoo
- Victoria Memorial
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4. Rabindra Sarobar Metro Station
This metro station, located close to Rabindra Sarobar, has not only good transportation but is also renowned for being a haunted metro station in Kolkata. Many people have reported that every night, they saw a man dressed in white standing on the tracks of the railroad. Some believe that the apparition is that of a railway man who died under very sad circumstances. There are feelings of the supernatural about the station, given the fact that it is surrounded by very little light, both on the platforms and in the tunnels. If you are not a very sensitive person and you don’t get frightened very often and like to experience such nightlife in India, then you will be interested in the stories about the spirits moving in the darkness. But if you feel you’re sensitive to such energies, then it’s wise not to visit the place at night. This eerie place is not only a place to take people to their destination but itself one of the many places to visit in Kolkata for those looking for something spooky to add to their trip.
Location: South Kolkata, near Lake Gardens
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (Metro timings: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM)
Nearby Restaurants:
- The Chaiwala
- 6 Ballygunge Place
Nearby Attractions:
- Rabindra Sarobar Lake
- Lake Mall
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5. Kolkata Dock
Not only for the maritime connection, and auspicious festivals in India like Durga Puja but the Kolkata Dock area is also infamous for its spooky environment and goofy stories. The locals and workers of the dock have also complained of encounters with strange figures and feeling cold at the same place. These strange phenomena are said to be associated with spirits of drowned mariners who perished in mishaps or while at sea. Others state that they can hear voices of the sailors who perished at sea. All lovers of the supernatural and everything connected with it, besides those who like investigating abandoned picturesque places, will definitely have to visit this dock. It is considered one of the most haunted places in Kolkata, making it an intriguing spot for thrill-seekers. However, if you do not want to be scared by disturbing energy, it is better not to visit such places, especially at night.
Location: Strand Road, Kolkata
Opening Hours: 24 hours (Best visited during the day)
Nearby Restaurants:
- The Chaiwala
- Arsalan
Nearby Attractions:
- Howrah Bridge
- Eden Gardens
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6. Nimtala Burning Ghat
Nimtala Burning Ghat is one of the oldest burning ghats of Kolkata, which is already known for its supernatural stories. There are always burning funeral pyres, and the surroundings of the ghat are rather deserted, so it gives a creepy feeling at night. Some people say they have witnessed the apparition of dead people walking towards the river or heard voices of the departed in the air. The spiritual energy that resides in this place, and the rituals that are carried out here, make this place one of the most haunted places in Kolkata. If you have a desire to see and hear stories connected to the other world, then you might take a walk through Nimtala Burning Ghat. However, if you are having any heart issues or are of a frail disposition, then it is probably best not to visit during the night.
Location: Nimtala, North Kolkata
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Nearby Restaurants:
- Rajabazar Biryani
- New Market
Nearby Attractions:
- College Street
- Belur Math
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7. Writer’s Building, BBD Bagh
The present state secretariat, the Writer’s Building in Kolkata, has a neo-classical structure with a colonial past and ghost stories. It is reported that the spirit of a British officer Mr. Shand haunts the building because he died there under inexplicable circumstances. Nurses, cleaners, security guards – everyone in the building – as well as people who are on the street say they have seen his ghost walking around the corridors. The dark corridors of this ancient building make the tension even higher here. If you are a fan of colonial-era buildings and ghostly encounters, the Writer’s Building should be on your list. But if you’re not one for spooky tales, you might want to keep your distance. For those intrigued by spooky places in Kolkata, this historical site is a must-see, offering both architectural beauty and eerie tales of the past.
Location: H8FX+GGJ, Binoy Badal Dinesh Bag N Rd, Lal Dighi, B.B.D. Bagh, Kolkata, West Bengal 700001
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Nearby Restaurants:
- Oudh 1590
- The Park Street Mutton Shop
Nearby Attractions:
- St. John’s Church
- Raj Bhavan
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8. Sovabazar/ House of Dolls
Sovabazar, a locality of North Kolkata, has been infamous for such stories for ages and the much famous “House of Dolls”. This is in what people refer to it as the spirit of the woman who used to live in the house. It is said she was killed under some unknown circumstances, and her spirit is known to wander in the house. People had complained about things moving on their own, dolls specifically, or even objects missing when they come back to check after leaving momentarily. To some people, they state that the dolls come alive and can move their heads in the same direction as their eyes which are directed towards anyone who moves in the room. The house itself and dolls are enough to make any character weak in their knees and scare even the bravest of souls. If you like to read horror stories and do not get nightmares easily, then you should pay a visit to this place. However, if you are faint of heart, it is better to stay away. This place is often listed among the horror places in Kolkata, and it’s a must-see for those fascinated by eerie tales and ghostly experiences.
Location: 17, Sovabazar St, Sovabazar, Hatkhola, Kolkata, West Bengal 700005
Nearby Restaurants:
- Mitra Cafe
- Saffron
Nearby Attractions:
- Marble Palace
- Jorasanko Thakur Bari
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9. Sundarbans
While not situated right in the middle of Kolkata, the Sundarbans are considered to be one of the most haunted areas in Kolkata. It is the largest delta forest in the world, which includes many channels, mangrove forests, and swamps, and is inhabited by the Royal Bengal Tigers. The region is filled with myths and folktales about spirits and other unreal beings. Some locals, as well as travelers, have reported seeing ghosts of people who drowned in the swamp or those who perished in boat mishaps. Particularly, the night fog that moves over the vast mangrove territory adds to the mystery, making it a perfect place for telling ghost stories. Many claim to hear strange noises from the distance, and some have even seen a lighted object floating on the water. While the Sundarbans is a stunning place to visit, if you're a fainthearted person or not a fan of horror-filled trips, then this might not be one of the places to visit in India for you.
Location: South 24 Parganas, West Bengal (about 100 km from Kolkata)
Opening Hours: 24 hours
Nearby Restaurants:
- Sundarbans Riverside Restaurant
- The Floating Restaurant
Nearby Attractions:
- Sundarbans National Park
- Sajnekhali Sanctuary
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10. South Park Street Cemetery
If you enjoy spooky places, you should visit South Park Street Cemetery. Walking through it feels like stepping into history, with old graves and broken tombstones telling stories of the past. Some people believe ghosts still wander here, and many have felt strange things, like shadows moving or a heavy feeling in the air. If you're interested in abandoned places in Kolkata, this cemetery is a must-see. But if you get scared easily, it’s better to stay away. The silence and eerie vibe can be too much. This place is beautiful in a haunting way, but it’s not for everyone!
Location: 52, Mother Teresa Sarani, Opposite the Assembly of God Church School, Park Street, Mullick Bazar, Park Street area, Kolkata, West Bengal 700017
Opening Hours: 10 am to 5 pm
In India, you will see few of the most haunted places in Kolkata, each with its own tragic stories and unsolved mysteries. These eerie sites, steeped in history and cultural significance, offer a spine-chilling experience for those seeking thrills. If you're brave enough for the supernatural, exploring these scary places in Kolkata will make for an unforgettable adventure. However, if you're easily scared, it might be better to visit them during daylight hours. For those interested, they can include these spooky spots in their Kolkata tour packages, as they can get guided and safe way to experience the city's dark history.
Haunted Places in Kolkata - FAQs
Kolkata is famous for its rich history, colonial architecture, vibrant culture, literature, festivals, and delicious street food. It's also known for being the cultural capital of India.
The best time to visit Kolkata is from October to March when the weather is cooler and pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city.
Some of the top tourist attractions in Kolkata include the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, Marble Palace, Indian Museum, and the bustling streets of Park Street.
Yes, Kolkata is generally safe for tourists. However, like in any large city, it’s recommended to be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.
Kolkata offers various modes of transportation including yellow cabs, buses, metro trains, and auto-rickshaws. The metro system is particularly convenient for covering long distances.
The National Library in Kolkata is considered one of the most haunted places, with many paranormal stories about strange noises and ghost sightings.
Yes, it is believed to be haunted by the spirit of a British soldier who shot himself after losing a race. Visitors have reported hearing sounds of galloping horses at night.
No, Hastings House is not open to the public. However, locals and visitors often share eerie tales about strange noises and ghost sightings around the area.
People have reported seeing a ghostly figure of a man in white standing on the tracks at night, believed to be a railway man who died under mysterious circumstances.
Yes, the Kolkata Dock area is believed to be haunted by the spirits of sailors who drowned. Visitors and workers often report strange sightings and eerie sensations.
Nimtala Burning Ghat is known for its spooky atmosphere, where people claim to have seen the spirits of the deceased walking toward the river or heard their voices.
The Writer’s Building is believed to be haunted by the spirit of British officer Mr. Shand, who is said to have died under unexplained circumstances within the building.
Yes, the House of Dolls in Sovabazar is infamous for its creepy tales, including the belief that the dolls inside the house move and watch people.
The Sundarbans, a vast forest area, is believed to be haunted by the spirits of people who drowned or died in boat accidents. There are numerous ghost stories related to the eerie fog and strange noises.
Yes, South Park Street Cemetery is considered haunted, with many people reporting strange feelings, sightings of shadows, and an eerie atmosphere. The old tombstones add to its spooky allure.
