Kolkata's Top 5 Haunted Spots For Ghost Hunting Adventures

India.com

01-06-2025

The 'City of Joy,' Kolkata, is famous for its rich cultural heritage, colonial architecture, and intellectual legacy. But did you know that this city is home to many mysteries interwoven with supernatural tales that have been passed on through time? From haunted mansions to eerie cemeteries, Kolkata is the perfect location for ghost hunters. The city has many haunted places which, regardless of whether you are a skeptic or a believer, will send chills down your spine. Here are some of the most infamous locations in Kolkata for ghost hunting, along with their spine-chilling stories.
1. India's National Library
Located in Alipore, The National Library is reputed to be one of the biggest libraries in India and a reservoir of information. However, it is also said to be the resting place of the ghost of one of its librarians. As per folkloric accounts, the librarian had tremendous affection for the library and would continue to traverse its corridors even after he was dead. Both staff members and visitors have claimed to have heard strange footsteps, saw booksuxe falling from the shelves without any assistance and felt a chilling presence in some parts of the library. Some have even gone so far as to say that late at night, a mysterious figure could be seen wandering the stacks which was assumed to be the hidden spirit of a man.
2. The Putulbari (House of Dolls)
Putulbari is a decrepit mansion located on the banks of the Hooghly River. It is known for being the center of many ghost sightings. The name 'Putulbari' comes from a doll-like sculpture that is nestled within its façade. This doll house is said to be a hotspot for affluent merchants, however in the modern era, it stands neglected and abandoned. Because of its history, it is said to be haunted by the spirits of women who were disgruntled and misused here. Locals have reported hearing ghastly wailing sounds and witnessing shadowy sights roaming in and out of the windows. There is something about the ambience of the Putulbari, combined with its ghastly history that makes it a hot spot for ghost hunters.
3. South Park Street Cemetery
The South Park Street Cemetery is one of the oldest cemeteries in Kolkata and also the largest graveyard from the colonial era. Many soldiers, British officials, and their families were buried here when they died and left this world. This place has also been tagged as haunted. There are so many sightings reported by tourists in which they describe seeing ghostly figures wearing colonial dresses, and at times, they hear whispers as well as feel an unusual drop in temperature. Some claim that there is a spirit of a woman in white who searches for her child and roams the graveyard during the night.
4. The Writers' Building
As with most historic structures in Kolkata, The Writers' Building is said to be haunted by the spirits of individuals meeting untimely deaths within its walls. This is especially true with British officer Walter Charles who was brutally murdered in the building. Thankfully the ghosts on the property aren't malevolent—the guards claim to hear doors opening and closing and faint sounds throughout the building. The Writers' Building is definitely a ghost hunter's paradise.
5. The Royal Calcutta Turf Club
The ghost of a disgraced horse race jockey who passed away during the race is said to haunt The Royal Calcutta Turf Club, one of the oldest racecourses in India. Tales are told of his ghost riding a phantom horse late at night, and members of the security team report sounds of phantom hoofsteps and ghastly lights dancing along the lines.
What to Expect While Ghost Hunting in Kolkata
Kolkata may be the place to try out for those who enjoy an exhilarating ghost-hunting adventure. While some stories may be the product of imagination run wild, the beauty of these places is distinctively haunting. The fear can be rather tangible when navigating the subways of a long-extinct mansion or an almost ancient graveyard. Regardless, it's best to bring some friends, a flashlight, and a healthy dose of skepticism. You might come across an unfathomable encounter.
Final Thoughts
While the haunted locations in Kolkata may not be as sinister as creepy legends suggest, they reveal yet another face of its rich and vibrant heritage. Each haunt has a story, and unearthing them is the best way to appreciate the history of this city. If you have the guts, don the ghost hunting gear and get ready for a jaw-dropping trip to the ghastly corners of Kolkata. But do be cautious: there is no telling what mysterious creatures might be waiting in disguise.