India, with its rich and long history, is full of mysteries. Perhaps none is as puzzling as what happened hundreds of years ago at a royal city in Rajasthan, now under excavation. At the edge of the Sariska forest, 47 kms from Alwar in Rajasthan lays the town of Bhangarh whose haunted status is attracting scores of tourists. Bhangarh is known for its ruins, and it’s interesting to note that entry to this “Ghost town” is legally prohibited between sunset and sunrise. That might be more legend than fact, but Bhangarh is still a charming ruin to visit. Even today, a walk to the palace through the remains of what once used to be a bustling town is a fragrant affair with the aroma of kevda wafting in from a nearby grove. Large banyan trees and several temples dot the landscape. The beautifully carved temples of Gopinath, Shiva (Someshwar), Mangla Devi, Keshava Rai, resplendent cenotaphs and dancers’ mansion have survived the passage of time and are a must-see for visitors.
These days, Bhangarh is run by the government of India as a tourist site, attracting a primarily domestic crowd. Many visitors have heard about the myth, but most come simply to explore the ruins, which are pretty interesting whether or not you believe in ghosts.
