By Fathima Rukaiya,

Travel isn’t always about beaches, mountains, and cities, sometimes it’s about stepping into the eerie, mysterious, and spine-chilling. For thrill seekers and those fascinated by the supernatural, these destinations offer an unforgettable experience.

1. Poveglia Island – Venice, Italy

Nicknamed “the world’s most haunted island,” Poveglia was once a quarantine zone for plague victims and later a mental asylum. Legends say restless spirits still linger.

• Location: A small island between Venice and Lido.
• Things to do: While officially closed to the public, some local boat operators arrange private tours. You can explore the crumbling hospital buildings, overgrown courtyards, and abandoned bell tower.
• Entry fee: No official fee (island is officially off-limits), but some private boat tours cost €200 – €400 per group.
• Safety tips: The island is off-limits and unsafe structurally, so only go with authorized guides. Wear sturdy shoes and avoid wandering off alone.

2. Bhangarh Fort – Rajasthan, India

According to legend, a wizard cursed the city after being rejected by a princess, leaving it forever abandoned. The Archaeological Survey of India prohibits entry after sunset.

• Location: Alwar district, Rajasthan (about 3 – 4 hours from Jaipur).
• Things to do: Explore the ruins of temples, palaces, and havelis (mansions) that are hauntingly beautiful. Visit during daylight for stunning photography.
• Entry fee: ₹40 (Indians), ₹200 (foreigners).
• Safety tips: Absolutely avoid nighttime entry, it’s illegal and unsafe. Stay hydrated as Rajasthan can be extremely hot.

3. Aokigahara Forest – Japan

Known as the “Suicide Forest,” this thick forest at the foot of Mount Fuji is cloaked in ghost stories and silence.

• Location: Yamanashi Prefecture, near Mount Fuji.
• Things to do: Hike along marked trails, visit Narusawa Ice Cave and Wind Cave, and admire Mount Fuji views.
• Entry fee: Free entry.
• Safety tips: Stay on approved routes; the area’s thick vegetation and spotty GPS reception make it easy for tourists to get lost. Avoid venturing far into restricted areas and choose to travel with a partner.

4. Leap Castle – Ireland

Why it’s haunted: Dubbed the “most haunted castle in the world,” Leap Castle has a bloody history of murders, dungeon torture, and ghost sightings—including the “Elemental,” a terrifying spirit.

• Location: County Offaly, Ireland.
• Things to do: Join a guided tour to learn about the castle’s history, explore the Bloody Chapel, and hear ghost stories from the current owners.
• Entry fee: Private tours available, typically €50 – €80 per group (book in advance).
• Safety tips: Book tours in advance as it’s a privately owned property. Wear warm clothing—Irish weather can be damp and chilly.

5. Château de Brissac – France

The “Green Lady,” the ghost of Charlotte de Breze, who was killed by her husband centuries ago, resides in this castle in the Loire Valley. Guests report hearing moans at night.

• Location: Brissac – Quince, Loire Valley.
• Things to do: Take wine tours, see the exquisite gardens, and spend the night in the castle (which doubles as a luxury hotel).
• Entry fee: €11 adults, €4 children (day tours). Rooms start at €350 per night.
• Safety tips: There aren’t any serious risks here; it’s more romantic than frightful. However, stay away from the top tower chambers at night if you’re easily frightened.

6. Winchester Mystery House – California, USA

Built by Sarah Winchester, widow of the gun magnate, the mansion has staircases leading to nowhere, hidden doors, and bizarre architecture meant to confuse spirits.

• Location: San Jose, California.
• Things to do: Take the guided mansion tour, explore secret passages, and join the candlelight ghost tour if you’re brave.
• Entry fee: Standard tour tickets start at $41 – $49 per adult. Special night tours cost extra.
• Safety tips: The house is safe for tours but expect a few jump scares during nighttime events. Wear comfortable shoes for all the walking.

7. Edinburgh Castle & Vaults – Scotland

Edinburgh is known as one of Europe’s most haunted cities. The castle is said to be haunted by phantom drummers, while the underground vaults are notorious for paranormal activity.

• Location: Edinburgh, Scotland.
• Things to do: Tour Edinburgh Castle during the day, then join a nighttime ghost tour through the vaults and Old Town’s alleys.
• Entry fee: Edinburgh Castle tickets £19.50 – £26.50 adults. Ghost tours in the vaults cost around £15 – £20 per person.
• Safety tips: Vault tours can be cramped and dark, skip them if you’re claustrophobic. Stick with groups at night.

8. Chillingham Castle – England

This medieval fortress has dungeons, torture chambers, and chilling ghost tales. Visitors often report hearing cries of the “Blue Boy.”

• Location: Northumberland, England.
• Things to do: Join the famous ghost tours, explore the torture chamber, and stay overnight in one of the castle’s rooms if you dare.
• Entry fee: Castle entry £14.50 adults, £7 children. Ghost tours are extra (anout £25 per person).
• Safety tips: Some parts of the castle have uneven floors, good footwear. If you’re sensitive to eerie environments, daytime tours might be better.

9. Monte Cristo Homestead – Australia

Called “Australia’s most haunted house,” the Victorian mansion has a dark past of tragic deaths and alleged murders. Paranormal experiences include cold spots and ghostly figures.

• Location: Junee, New South Wales.
• Things to do: Take a guided night tour, stay overnight in the guest rooms, or join a ghost-hunting session with local paranormal groups.
• Entry fee: Day entry around AUD $15. Overnight ghost tours cost about AUD $195 per person.
• Safety tips: The place is remote, so plan your transport in advance. Keep your phone charged in case of emergencies.

Mythical and haunted destinations add a thrilling edge to travel. Whether it’s walking through eerie ruins in India, wandering a cursed forest in Japan, or sleeping in a haunted castle in Ireland, these places blend history, mystery, and a touch of the supernatural.

Safety should always come first. Book official tours, avoid trespassing into restricted areas, and travel with company if possible.