5 Haunted Destinations for the Brave Traveler
Not all journeys are about sunrises and sandy beaches. Some take you through fog-covered forests, creaky corridors, and ghost stories that refuse to die. If you’re the kind of traveler who likes a chill down the spine with your passport stamp, these haunted destinations might just make your bucket list, or give you second thoughts.
1. The Ancient Ram Inn, England
Dating back to 1145, The Ancient Ram Inn is often referred to as the most haunted house in Britain. Located in Gloucestershire, this historic inn was once a priest's residence, and its dark history has attracted ghost hunters from around the world. People have reported hearing unexplained noises, seeing spectral figures, and feeling the presence of unseen forces. The inn sits on an ancient pagan burial ground, adding to its supernatural allure. Visitors claim to experience disturbances in various rooms, especially the "Witch's Room," where the spirit of a former witch is said to linger.
2. Bhangarh Fort, India
Bhangarh Fort, located in Rajasthan, India, is one of the most haunted places in the world. Built in the 16th century by Raja Madho Singh, it’s said to be cursed. The Indian government has even placed a sign near the fort warning people not to enter after sunset, as strange occurrences and paranormal activities are commonly reported. Legend has it that a wizard fell in love with the princess of Bhangarh and cast a spell on her. However, when she rejected him, he cursed the town, leading to its eventual ruin. The fort is often enveloped in a heavy, eerie silence, and many claim to hear strange sounds in the dead of night. Despite being a popular tourist attraction, no one dares to stay past dusk.
3. The Stanley Hotel, Colorado, USA
The Stanley Hotel, built in 1909 by F.O. Stanley, sits at the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park. Famous for inspiring Stephen King's The Shining, the hotel is reputed to be haunted by its own resident ghosts. The most famous apparition is that of Flora Stanley, the wife of the hotel’s founder. Guests and staff often hear the piano playing in an empty room, footsteps echoing in the halls, and strange cold spots. Flora’s ghost is known to play the piano in the music room, where she once entertained guests. Other spirits, including that of F.O. Stanley himself, are believed to wander the hotel, ensuring that the haunted legacy of this historic location continues.
4. Château de Brissac, France
Château de Brissac, located in the Loire Valley, is renowned not only for its breathtaking architecture but also for the ghost of the "Green Lady." Built in the 11th century, this grand castle is rumored to be haunted by the spirit of Charlotte de Brissac, a woman murdered by her husband after discovering his affair. Known as the “Green Lady” due to the color of her dress, Charlotte's ghost reportedly roams the castle's tower rooms, her face disfigured from the brutal murder. Visitors claim to see her apparition walking through the halls, sometimes accompanied by an overwhelming feeling of cold. Interestingly, the castle is surrounded by vast grounds and lush gardens, adding to its haunting atmosphere.
5. Aokigahara Forest, Japan
Located at the base of Mount Fuji, Aokigahara is known as the “Suicide Forest.” With a hauntingly tranquil atmosphere, it has gained a grim reputation as a place where people go to end their lives. The forest’s dense, quiet paths and dense canopy make it feel isolated from the rest of the world. Due to the forest's association with suicides, local authorities keep the bodies of those who commit suicide in special rooms within the nearby forest police station until their families are located. The forest is also known for its high magnetic deposits, causing compasses and mobile phones to malfunction. Some visitors have reported hearing strange sounds or feeling an eerie presence as they walk through the forest, adding to its already unsettling atmosphere.
Hunted travel is a rising niche. Just remember that some doors are better left unopened.
